- The award reinforces Spain’s position as an open, safe and inclusive destination.
- LGBTQ tourism stands out for its high spending power and contributes to the profitability of the tourism sector.
- Spain will continue to strengthen its position with events such as the 2026 Gay Games in Valencia and Barcelona for WorldPride 2030.
Spain has been recognised as the World’s Best LGBTQ+ Destination at the 2026 Spartacus Travel Awards, an international awards scheme that honours destinations most committed to diversity and inclusion in tourism. The ceremony took place on 4 March during the ITB Berlin.
This recognition confirms Spain’s position as one of the most open, safe and welcoming destinations for the LGBTQ community internationally, thanks to its commitment to equality, social acceptance and the development of a diverse and inclusive tourism offering. With established destinations such as Madrid, Barcelona, Sitges, Torremolinos and Gran Canaria standing out for their wide range of cultural, leisure and event offerings, these are increasingly joined by other regions with inclusive initiatives linked to culture, gastronomy or nature.
LGBTQ tourism also has a significant economic impact, with increases in average spending per person (+3.8%) and daily spending (+4.7%), which reinforces the profitability of the tourism model.
Spain will continue to boost its international profile through major events such as the 2026 Gay Games in Valencia and Barcelona’s bid to host WorldPride 2030.
About the SPANISH TOURISM INSTITUTE (TURESPAÑA)
TURESPAÑA is the autonomous body under the Ministry of Industry and Tourism, via the Secretary of State for Tourism, whose objectives are to maintain and strengthen Spain’s leading position as a global tourist destination; to contribute to improving the competitiveness and resilience of the Spanish tourism sector, and to the consolidation of a tourism model based on economic, social and environmental sustainability through the efficient management of international tourism demand.
Source: SPANISH TOURISM INSTITUTE (TURESPAÑA)