Madrid’s tourism sector achieved a record £8.5 billion (€10 billion) in visitor spending during the first half of 2026. This represents an 11.4% increase compared to the same period in 2025, when spending totaled £7.6 billion (€8.9 billion).
The city welcomed over 5.6 million visitors in the first six months of 2026, marking a 4.1% growth in visitor numbers year-on-year. These tourists contributed to 11.9 million overnight stays in Madrid during this period, with 59% of visitors coming from outside Spain.
The largest number of international visitors came from the United States, accounting for approximately 567,158 arrivals so far in
2026. Italy ranked second with 228,576 visitors, followed by the United Kingdom with 180,463 tourists. All three source markets showed growth compared to the previous year.
Employment in Madrid’s tourism sector rose by over 5% in the first eight months of 2026. Madrid’s tourism city councillor, Almudena Maíllo, described tourism as “an engine of development for the city, generating economic activity in neighbourhoods and creating stable employment for thousands of Madrid residents.” She emphasized that “every euro spent by visitors benefits the city and the services enjoyed by Madrid residents.”
Despite the growth, Spain has experienced protests against overtourism. Residents
of Mallorca protested in July over the impact of tourism on housing and living conditions. Protest group Menys Turisme, Mes Vida said “the resident population suffers an unprecedented housing crisis and a progressive decline in living conditions.” The Spanish government responded in April by announcing plans to triple investment in public housing to mitigate tourism’s impact on the housing market.
Museo del Prado Implements Visitor Group Limits
Museo del Prado in Madrid introduced maximum group size limits starting January 2026 to regulate visitor flow after peak numbers last year. The museum’s director, Miguel Falomir, stated that “the Prado doesn’t need a single visitor more,” reflecting concerns about
overcrowding.
Madrid City Council Endorses Tourism Growth Amid Challenges
Madrid City Council highlighted the tourism industry’s role as a fundamental economic driver despite overtourism concerns. The council confirmed the increase to more than 5.6 million visitors in the first half of 2026 and expressed confidence in continued sector growth supported by rising employment and spending.
Almudena Maíllo credited the growth to “the enormous appeal that Madrid has cultivated, both nationally and internationally,” underlining tourism’s contribution to local economy and resident services.
