FITUR 2026 to Showcase the Growing Strength and Collaboration of UK Tourism with Spain

FITUR 2026: Spotlight on UK-Spain Tourism Connection

The forthcoming FITUR 2026 event, taking place from January 21 to 25 at IFEMA MADRID, is set to put a strong emphasis on the lively tourism relationship between the United Kingdom and Spain. This connection remains a cornerstone for tourism in Europe, with Spain consistently earning top marks as a favourite destination among British travellers.

British Tourism to Spain at a Glance

In 2024, the number of British visitors to Spain reached an impressive 18.4 million, making up nearly one fifth (19.6%) of all tourists in the country. Expectations for 2025 suggest arrivals will rise to 15.3 million by September, representing a 4% increase compared to the previous year. The economic impact of this influx is substantial, with projected spending estimated at €19 billion.

Tourist Preferences and Spending Patterns

The average British holidaymaker spends about 1,228 euros on their Spanish trip, with daily expenses around 176 euros and stays lasting approximately seven nights. A considerable share of UK tourists, over 41%, list Spain among their top holiday choices and around 15% name it as their absolute favourite. The satisfaction rating among visitors sits comfortably at 73.3%, showcasing the destination’s consistent appeal.

Spanish Visitors to the UK: A Growing Market

The tourism exchange between UK and Spain is far from one-sided. More than 2.5 million Spaniards chose the UK as their travel destination in 2024, with expenditures hitting £1.4 billion. Notably, the majority – three out of every five Spanish travellers – are repeat visitors, indicating a well-established cultural and urban synergy between the two nations.

What Draws Tourists from Both Nations?

• British Leisure Interests in Spain: Beaches, city tours, and shopping
• Spanish Interests in the UK: Historical heritage, urban culture, visiting family and friends

These interests reflect deeply-rooted lifestyle choices and promote ongoing cooperation and business opportunities showcased at FITUR 2026.

Enhanced Air Connectivity and Institutional Representation

The travel route between these key destinations is gaining strength, with air capacity for the 2025/26 winter season expected to grow by nearly 5%. This improvement in connectivity is vital for maintaining the momentum of tourism flows.

The United Kingdom will also bolster its presence at FITUR 2026, featuring the official inclusion of Destination North East England alongside a diverse array of businesses. Among the UK’s representatives in travel technology are leading companies like Mews and Sabre, complemented by creative initiatives from Warner Bros. London Studio and various agencies, DMCs, and wholesalers.

How These Trends Affect Taxi and Transfer Services

When tens of millions journey across borders, reliable ground transportation becomes a vital piece of the travel puzzle. For tourists landing at Spanish and British airports and traveling between cities, the ability to book a private transfer or taxi service with confidence can transform their trip experience. Platforms such as LocalsRide.com stand out by offering users the chance to select specific vehicles, see exact models and driver ratings in advance, and enjoy fare transparency that traditional booking platforms often don’t provide.

Whether it’s a family heading from Madrid’s airport to a beach resort, or a business traveller navigating London’s historic quarters, the availability of precise, user-friendly transfer options greatly enhances comfort and convenience.

Summary of Key Points

• The UK and Spain maintain a dynamic and reciprocal tourism relationship, with millions visiting each other’s countries annually.
• British tourists favour Spain’s beaches, culture, and shopping, spending significant amounts on average per trip.
• Spanish visitors to the UK are an important market, often returning for cultural experiences and family visits.
• Enhancing air connectivity and business presence at FITUR highlights continued growth and cooperation between these markets.
• Reliable taxi and transfer services are essential to support the seamless journey of tourists between airports, cities, and destinations.

Personal Insight and Travel Booking Tips

The fitness of the UK-Spain tourism market is not just about numbers — it reflects rich cultural connections, evolving travel habits, and opportunities for travellers to explore with ease. While comprehensive reviews and shared feedback paint a useful picture, they never quite replace firsthand experiences. Using trustworthy platforms can help bridge that gap effectively.

On LocalsRide, users can hire cars with drivers from verified providers at reasonable prices, choosing from a wide selection of vehicles suitable for solo travelers, families, or groups. The platform offers transparency in pricing and driver details, empowering travellers to avoid unexpected costs or disappointments.

By combining affordability, convenience, and in-depth vehicle data, LocalsRide.com ensures that your transfer or taxi needs are met with high standards. Whether booking airport pickups, city transfers, or delivery services, users enjoy a smooth, reliable experience. Book your Ride LocalsRide.com

Looking Ahead: Tourism’s Role in a Connected World

While these travel trends may not drastically reshape the global tourism landscape alone, they remain highly relevant to those invested in connecting travellers with their favourite destinations. As FITUR 2026 illustrates, nurturing connections between prominent tourism markets like the UK and Spain benefits everyone—from airlines to ground transport providers and tourists themselves. LocalsRide strives to stay in step with these developments, offering services that keep pace with changing demands and ensuring travellers move with confidence regardless of what tomorrow brings.

Start planning your next adventure and secure your worldwide transfer with LocalsRide.