Tarragona Tourism Sees 10.23% Growth in Overnight Stays This First Quarter

The province recorded over 3.3 million overnight stays, with significant boosts from the Irish and Dutch markets.

Aerial view of the Tarragona coastline with the Mediterranean Sea.
IA

Aerial view of the Tarragona coastline with the Mediterranean Sea.

The province of Tarragona has concluded the first quarter of 2026 with a 10.23% increase in tourist overnight stays, reaching a total of 3,305,569 visitors.

Data from Eurecat's Tourism Data System reveals a significant rise compared to the same period last year, when 2,998,883 overnight stays were recorded. This growth consolidates the sector's positive trend in the region.
Key source markets show favorable performance. Notably, the Irish market saw a 16.72% increase, and the Netherlands experienced a 15.37% rise. Overnight stays also improved from the Spanish (+9.09%), French (+8.80%), British (+7.61%), German (+7.04%), and Belgian (+2.33%) markets.
Berta Cabré, president of the Business Federation of Hospitality and Tourism of the province of Tarragona (FEHT), positively assessed these figures, stating that "the first quarter confirms that the destination is clearly advancing in the de-seasonalisation of tourist activity." Cabré highlighted that the focus on sports tourism and the hosting of international tournaments helps maintain activity for more months.
Cabré also emphasized the importance of the early start of operations at Reus Airport in 2026, which allowed for an earlier arrival of international visitors and strengthened the destination's connectivity from the beginning of the year. She noted that these results are particularly valuable in a complex international context, demonstrating that the province continues to be perceived as a safe and reliable destination.
Finally, the FEHT president underscored the strategic role of tour operators in consolidating international markets and fostering sustainable and balanced growth throughout the year. Prospects for the entire 2026 tourist season are positive, with confidence that it will be a good year for the province, provided there are no further international disruptions.