UK tourists are “increasingly opting” to rush and cancel Spain holidays over overtourism and anti-visitor protests. Brits are increasingly shunning Spain in favour of alternative European destinations, according to reports in the European Union holiday hotspot.
The move follows months of anti-tourism protests and tightening regulations, new research reveals. Amsterdam has officially surpassed Spain as the top holiday destination for UK travellers, according to recent data from One Sure Insurance.
The Dutch capital now sees approximately 42,000 flight searches per month from British tourists, making it the most sought-after location for holidaymakers from the UK.
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This notable change in travel trends follows widespread protests across several popular Spanish tourist areas last week.
Demonstrators voiced growing frustration over the impact of short-term tourist rentals and property speculation, which they argue are significantly contributing to soaring housing costs and making it increasingly difficult for locals to afford to live in their own communities.
“We’re seeing a trend of more adventurous travellers who are looking to explore beyond the usual hotspots,” a spokesperson for One Sure Insurance said.
“Brits are looking to avoid over-tourism protests and are considering staycations as an alternative to travelling abroad.” Spain’s tourism sector, which has long depended on British holidaymakers as a cornerstone of its international market.
In 2024, UK travellers topped the charts as Spain’s largest group of foreign visitors, with a staggering 18.4 million arrivals. This figure far exceeded those from other major markets, including France and Germany, which recorded 13 million and 12 million visitors respectively.
The Olive Press has reported how the trend “asks questions” foe Spain after British tourists also led the way in spending, contributing more than €22.6 billion to the Spanish economy in 2024. This marked a 13.5% increase compared to the previous year.
It was also more than double the amount spent by French visitors. Tourism plays a vital role in Spain’s economy, accounting for roughly 12% of the country’s GDP.
A decline in British interest could therefore have far-reaching consequences for businesses and communities that depend on steady visitor numbers.