The National Institute of Statistics (INE) reported that 4.3 million foreign tourists visited Spain overall in November of last year, which is 93% more visitors than came to Spain in the same month of 2019.

Furthermore, according to SchengenVisaInfo.com, these tourists spent €5,387 million overall on their travel and accommodation in Spain, €319 million more or 6.2% higher than they did in November of last year.

These statistics demonstrate that more than 67 million foreign tourists visited Spain in the first eleven months of the year. This amount is 85% of what was recorded for the same period in 2019. In the meantime, total expenses equal €81,821 million, or 94% of 2019.

When compared to pre-pandemic levels, the average increase in tourist spending per visitor in November was 14 percent, taking into account the rise in overall tourist spending in the month.

This shows that Spain not only recovered from the pandemic's wounds but also returned to the tourism market quickly. In general, we may say that the answer to the question of how many tourists visit Spain each year is over 100 million.

So, how is the percentage of foreigners visiting Spain so high? The answer is pretty simple. There are so many things to see and do in Spain, and the prices are equally fair. To learn more, you can read our blog “Why is Spain the Most Popular Holiday Destination?”.

Here we have also prepared a small Spain travel guide full of tips and suggestions in this blog so that you can make the most of your stay in this beautiful Mediterranean country. Keep reading!

The Best Cities to Visit in Spain

Madrid and Barcelona are no longer secrets to visitors, but what about Marbella, Granada, Alicante, Málaga, and Seville? Discover Spain's must-see tourist cities.

Beautiful coast at dawn in spainMarbella

A haven for outdoor sports, Marbella benefits from a mild climate and year-round sunshine. As another highlight of the region, it attracts all-level golfers since it has the highest density of golf courses in Spain. There are 14 golf courses located within the municipality, including eight clubs with 18 holes and one with 27 holes that meet professional standards.

It also promises a gourmet tour of this food-loving Andalusian city, which can satisfy any craving and also provides magnificent scenic views and high-standard vibes. Al fresco dining on the beach or under the stars is essentially guaranteed, thanks to the more than 300 guaranteed days of sunshine each year.

Granada

Granada is famous for its beauty and the spectacular Alhambra castle, which is regarded as one of the best tourist places to visit in Spain and Europe. For centuries, the Moors ruled all of southern Spain, and they left behind a priceless cultural legacy that is a source of pride for the provinces of Andalusia and Granada. Even if you have no interest in historical structures, you will be stunned by Alhambra's magnificence.

Another choice is to go to the old "Great Bazaar" in the old city center, where they now sell regional goods and Moorish and Spanish souvenirs.

view of alicante port in spainAlicante

When you think of traveling to Spain for a summer break, it is the perfect one. During the summer months, Alicante's extensive public beaches are where you may enjoy sailing, tanning, and swimming in the Mediterranean Sea.

The main harbor of Alicante is bordered by a variety of restaurants that serve seafood, tapas, cocktails, and wines till late where you can enjoy the local dishes.

Gothic cathedrals, medieval castles, and buildings from the 15th to the 18th centuries can all be found in the Old Town Quarter. You may take guided tours of these locations for only a few euros, but many of them are generally free to enter.

Málaga

Beaches, enormous hammams, genuine restaurants, rooftops with breathtaking views of the marina, a cathedral, a castle, and skyscrapers with sea views can all be found in this city. It is so laid-back and packed with activities that visitors may fully experience the local culture.

The summer is the best time to visit Spain’s Málaga, but you should also give a chance to this city in the winter when it is just as gorgeous.

Along with Alicante, this wonderful city is one of the locations where we sell the most properties. The two main factors that influence our customers' decisions are the first, as we already mentioned, the city's beauty and the affordability of the properties.

On our page of properties for sale in Spain, you can view attractive hot deals in the current market in Málaga and the whole of Spain.

historic place with reflection in water in sevilleSevilla

Seville offers visitors authentic experiences like a stroll through the Real Alcazar's lush gardens, a Flamenco performance, or a romantic moment on a boat in the Plaza de Espana, which is elected among the best places for a marriage proposal.

It is also ready to amaze you with its many historical places to see in Spain, such as the Giralda and the Cathedral of Seville.

In addition to these, check What are Some Great Lesser-Known Places to Visit in Spain? to learn about Spain's secret paradises!

Spain’s Entry Requirements and Necessary Documentation

The paperwork and procedures change depending on the visa policies Spain has implemented for the country you are in.

woman walking on rocks near beachIf you are a non-EU citizen who wants to travel to Spain, you will need a passport that was issued within the last ten years and is valid for at least three months after the date you want to leave the country. You may also need a visa.

You should apply for a visa from the Spanish consulate or embassy. Travel to other Schengen countries is automatically permitted if you hold a visa from a Schengen country. It is also equal to a visa if you hold a current residence permit from one of the Schengen countries. The other documents are;

  • Visa application form
  • Two passport photos
  • Proof of accommodation
  • A return or round-trip ticket
  • Documents proving your purpose of entry
  • Travel health insurance
  • Showing sufficient financial resources for your stay

These are general documents. Depending on whether you are an employee, student, or in another position, additional documentation may be required. It would be best to speak with the consulate in your country and obtain more information.

If you are from the European Union, a member of the European Economic Act (Norway, Island, and Liechtenstein), or a Swiss citizen, you do not need a residence permit or visa in order to live and work in Spain. However, if you intend to stay longer than 90 days, you will then need to;

  • Register and receive an EU registry certificate
  • Give a health insurance contract
  • Register your address
  • Prove you have the money to support yourself in the country

If you are a British citizen, you just need to have a valid passport. However, if you intend to stay in Spain for more than 90 days during a six-month period, you must apply for a visa. The general documents are;

  • A return or round-trip ticket
  • Showing sufficient financial resources for your stay
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Travel health insurance

For more detailed information about the visa procedures, be sure to speak with the consulate.

But, if you say that this is the country in which you wish to live and invest, we advise you to obtain a Golden Visa through real estate investment. You may live the Mediterranean lifestyle in Spain while also visiting European nations without a visa. For more information, click Golden Visa in Spain.

A hand holding covid test tubeSome Covid Restrictions May Reappear in Spain

Some measures were totally removed as of October 2022, signaling a great return to some form of normality for visitors. The only remaining measure is the requirement to wear a mask while using public transportation, flying, and entering health facilities, including pharmacies. However, according to The Mirror, as the threat of a new strain grows, it now appears that the country may once again adopt some stricter restrictions.

The public health committee of Andalusia has decided to hold a meeting on January 17. In the meeting, experts will share their perspectives on the current situation and make decisions about potential future restrictions.

Patricia Gómez, the Balearic Government's Minister of Health, has warned residents and travelers to exercise caution, citing the World Health Organization's recommendation to use masks indoors.