18.7 million holidaymakers on the Balearic Islands - 12 % more revenue than last year
The protests against mass tourism on Mallorca have caused quite a stir in the media. But the latest figures from the Spanish statistics institute INE show: The Balearic Islands set a new visitor record in 2024. Whole 18.7 million tourists traveled to the archipelago last year - an increase of five percent compared to 2023.
Tourism boom despite criticism: who benefits, who suffers?
While the number of holidaymakers increased, income shot up even more. 22.38 billion euros tourists to the Balearic Islands - an increase of 12 %. Mallorca remains the most popular destination: 13.4 million guests visited the largest island, followed by Ibiza and Formentera with 3.7 million and Menorca with 1.7 million Travelers.
German holidaymakers are top spenders
The German tourists remain the most important economic group in the Balearic Islands. They gave 6.03 billion euros for their stay in Mallorca - more than any other nationality. In second place are the British with 4.38 billion euros.
Is mass tourism making Mallorca uninhabitable?
Despite economic success, the problems are growing:
- Rents are exploding: Locals can hardly find affordable housing.
- Environmental damageWater shortages, waste problems and beach congestion are increasing.
- Increasing resistanceResidents demand stricter regulations and a reduction in the number of guests.
Will there now be a drastic increase in tourist tax?
The regional government is examining a Increase in tourist tax for the 2025 high season. Guests in four- and five-star hotels are already paying 4,40 Euro per day.
Possible measures: ✔️ Higher charges for short-term rentals via platforms such as Airbnb.
✔️ Strict restrictions for cruise ships in Palma.
✔️ Promotion of sustainable forms of travel instead of mass tourism.
Rising prices: Is Mallorca becoming a luxury destination?
The increasing costs could lead to Mallorca focusing more on exclusive quality tourismconcentrated. While Luxury hotels and boutique hotels enjoy high capacity utilization, the Classic package tourism suffer from it.
Mallorca between boom and balance: what's next?
The figures speak for themselves: despite protests, tourism continues to grow. The challenge is this, a balance between economic success and sustainability to find. Because one thing is certain: The Balearic Islands are on the brink of a turning point, and how this is shaped is not only in the hands of politicians - but also in those of travelers.
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