Spain's anti-tourism protests fail to scare off sun-loving Brits - as holidaymakers spend a record £95billion in the popular destination

Published: 04:35 EDT, 9 November 2026 | Updated: 04:42 EDT, 9 November 2026 Over the summer, thousands of protesters took to the streets of Spanish towns and cities to demonstrate against overtourism. Residents of regions such as Mallorca have complained of rising housing costs from holiday rentals or foreign nationals' second homes as well as congestion in once-quiet towns and villages. In July, for instance, around 10,000 people waded into the sea at a well-known beauty spot on the island to call for better protection of the coast and natural attractions.Barcelona, meanwhile, has seen its fair share of signs and graffiti all around the city demanding that 'tourists go home'.Yet despite widespread discontent, it seems Spain's protestors are far from scaring off Britons eager to holiday in the sunshine.In the first nine months of 2026, foreign tourists have spent a record €114.38billion (£95billion) in Spain. Spain remains popular among Brits, with the most popular destination the Balearic IslandsThat marks an 8 per cent increase on the previous year.What's more, it has emerged British visitors make up the largest share of the spending.A total of more than 16 million Britons visited during that period, an increase of 5.6 per cent, according to The Olive Press, spending €2.791billion (£2.33billion) in Spain in September 2026.So, where are holidaymakers heading?In June, the start of the core high season, the Balearic Islands were the most popular destination, according to Spanish property site idealista.This includes the popular islands of Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera. Growing numbers of tourists are still opting for Spanish holidays despite ongoing anti-tourist sentiment Regions such as Barcelona have been inundated with visitors in recent yearsThe Balearic Islands welcomed 2,275,384 tourists in June 2026, 23.3 per cent of Spain's total.In second place is Catalonia, with 2,023,505 tourists, 20.8 per cent of the total.It is known for the beach resorts of Costa Brava as well as Barcelona, the regional capital.Boasting sandy beaches, a relaxed lifestyle and good weather, Barcelona has drawn countless Brits to its sunny shores for years. The Costa Brava has also long been a favourite among Britons, with the most popular destinations including Lloret de Mar and Platja d'Aro.Once there, you hardly have to break the bank to have a good time, as Post Office research shows an average beer costs £2.23, while a three-course family meal including wine and soft drinks will set you back £86.73. Catalonia - and its capital Barcelona - is Spai's second-most popular destinationNext up is Andalusia, where 1,531,303 tourists visited.The vibrant capital of Andalusia, Seville, is renowned for its rich Moorish heritage, dramatic flamenco dancing and sun-drenched streets.It has an average of 0.4 days of rainfall, and an average daily temperature in July and August of 28.3C.Rounding out the list of popular destinations among tourists in Spain is the Valencian Community, Canary Islands and Madrid region.