Spain Tourism Board, alongside the Basque Country and Catalan tourism boards, is excited to be joining this year’s Entire Travel Showcase events in Melbourne (11 February), Sydney (12 February), and Brisbane (13 February).
The three regions are presenting a united front to showcase the diversity, culture, and allure of Spain, encouraging more Australians to explore all that this captivating destination has to offer in 2025. These two regions, alongside the national tourism board, are eager to demonstrate how Spain offers a rich, varied experience for all travellers, from gastronomic indulgences and cultural milestones to world-class events and natural beauty.
Spain welcomed 672,274 Australian visitors in 2024, up a significant +54.28% on pre-COVID (2019) arrival figures – with Spain recording 435,758 Australian visitors in 2019.
As Spain continues to captivate travellers around the world, 2025 is set to be an exciting year for Australians seeking new adventures and authentic cultural experiences. With an emphasis on sustainability, the opening of new luxury hotels, and a series of world-class events, Spain is stepping up its appeal once again.
What’s New in Spain for 2025?
Turespaña (Spain Tourism Board) is focussing its efforts in promoting sustainable travel for 2025 with the launch of a dedicated microsite to help travellers plan conscious trips. This is all part of the Spanish Government’s push to promote lesser-visited regional destinations, where travellers can experience more authentic Spanish offerings and avoid the crowds.
Regional areas within Catalonia, such as Sitges and Tarragona, are easily accessible from Barcelona, while the Basque Country on Spain’s Atlantic coast, known primarily for its gastronomy and surf culture, is getting on the radar of more Australians. Working in partnership with Basquetour (Basque Country Tourism Board) and the Catalan Tourist Board, Spain Tourism Board is encouraging Australians to look beyond the country’s already popular touristy cities, and consider spending time out in the regions. Top recommendations include:
- Delving into Spanish art and design at Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum and at the home of Salvador Dali in Figures
- Exploring the many coves and fishing villages of the Basque Coast and the Costa Brava
- Tucking into flavour-filled local delicacies in San Sebastian and Girona
To plan a more sustainable visit to Spain, head to https://sustainability.spain.info/en/.
Spain will also welcome a number of new and exciting hotels in 2025. These include:
- Hotel Esperit Roca (Catalonia): Situated in a 19th-century military fortress just outside Girona, Esperit Roca is a new boutique hotel that offers a unique blend of local gastronomy, nature, art, and architecture. The addition of a distillery and exclusive restaurant enhances its status as a true cultural gem on the Costa Brava.
- Parador of Ibiza: After almost two decades of restoration work, the Parador of Ibiza will officially open its doors in 2025. Set in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Dalt Vila, this stunning new addition offers a mix of modern luxury and archaeological intrigue, with an onsite museum showcasing the island’s historical finds.
- OKU Andalusia: A brand new retreat on the southern coast of Spain, OKU Andalusia will open in summer 2025, offering the ultimate seaside escape with unparalleled views of Gibraltar and North Africa.
- The Vestige Collection (Menorca): This new brand will open two boutique properties in the heart of Menorca’s stunning landscape in 2025, where guests can enjoy a serene, authentic escape blending historical heritage with modern luxury.
Major Cultural Anniversaries & Events in 2025
Spain’s rich cultural calendar will be a major draw for visitors in 2025. This year, the country is host to an array of milestone anniversaries and global events, making it the perfect year to experience the country’s culture, art and history. Some of the must see include:
- Catalonia’s Gastronomy Year: 2025 marks Catalonia’s recognition as the World Region for Gastronomy, a title it earned two years ago. Cities, towns, and restaurants across the region will celebrate with unique culinary experiences that showcase the very best of Catalan cuisine.
- Montserrat’s 1000th Anniversary: The Monastery of Montserrat, an iconic cultural and religious site near Barcelona, will celebrate its 1000th anniversary in 2025. This major milestone will be marked by special events and exhibits, offering visitors a deep dive into the monastery’s rich history.
- 50th Anniversary of the Joan Miró Foundation (Barcelona): The Joan Miró Foundation will celebrate 50 years of inspiring visitors with the works of one of Spain’s most famous artists. This milestone will be marked with special exhibitions and events in Barcelona.
- Vitoria Jazz Festival: Join the world’s greatest jazz players in the picturesque Basque Country town of Vitoria, as jazz lovers the world over unite in July 2025.
- Bilbao BBK Live: Also in July 2025, Bilbao’s annual rock and pop music festival will take place once again on the slopes of Mount Cobetas, just outside the city. This year’s line-up includes none other than Australian superstar Kylie Minogue.
- Zinemaldia International Film Festival: San Sebastian will come alive with glamour and celebrities aplenty for the week during September 2025.
- VinFast IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship, Marbella: From 8-9 November, 2025, Marbella will host over 6,000 athletes from around the world for this prestigious triathlon event. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Costa del Sol, this is one of the many exciting sporting events taking place in Spain this year.
With major events, new luxury hotels, and unique cultural experiences on the horizon, 2025 is set to be an incredible and memorable year for Australians to explore the best of Spain.
For more information about Spain’s offerings in 2025, visit www.spain.info.
