The Region of Murcia continues to strengthen its position as a key destination for international travelers. Between January and September 2025, the region welcomed 952,261 foreign tourists, the second-highest figure ever recorded, only behind 2018. According to data from Spain’s National Statistics Institute (INE) Frontur Survey, this represents a 5.7% increase compared to 2024, outperforming the national average of 3.5%.

The United Kingdom remains the leading source market, accounting for 297,885 visitors, or 31.3% of the total, marking a 24.1% year-on-year increase. As expected, many of these travelers gravitate toward coastal destinations such as La Manga, Los Alcázares, and Mazarrón, drawn by the sunshine, beaches, and leisure options the region has to offer.

France followed with 147,052 tourists, Belgium with 77,608, Portugal with 59,574, and the Netherlands with 58,167 visitors, confirming Murcia’s growing popularity among European travelers.

At the same time, total spending by foreign tourists reached a record €1.382 billion, a 12% increase compared to 2024, well above the national average rise of 7%. The average daily expenditure stood at €125.89, up 13.6% from the previous year.

The Region of Murcia also stood out as the Spanish community where international visitors stayed the longest, with an average of 11.5 days, significantly higher than the national average of 7 days.

Air travel continues to dominate, with 68.5% of tourists arriving by plane, mainly through the Region of Murcia International Airport, which saw a notable rise in arrivals from the UK.

In September, the region recorded its second-best historical figure for that month, with 114,416 international visitors, up 3.9% year-on-year compared to just 0.8% growth nationally. Total foreign tourist spending in September reached €177.2 million, a 32% increase from 2024, making Murcia the second-highest region in Spain in spending per visitor, averaging €1,549 per person.

According to Juan Francisco Martínez, director of the Region of Murcia Tourism Institute (Itrem), these results “reflect the success of initiatives launched by the Regional Ministry to strengthen tourism demand. The measures aim to expand Murcia’s international reach, diversify markets, and encourage sustainable growth beyond the high season.”

With British tourism leading the way and spending at record levels, Murcia continues to consolidate its position as one of Southern Europe’s most appealing destinations, particularly along its coastal jewels such as La Manga, Águilas, and the Mar Menor.