Spain consolidates its world leadership in conference tourism
4 March, 2026Spain remains the third country in the world for hosting major international conferences, only behind the United States and Italy, according to the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA).
Conference tourism generated 14.296 billion euros in the past year and could reach 15.4 billion in 2026, according to the Spain Convention Bureau. Forecasts point to 10.91 million travellers in the current financial year, with sustained annual growth of up to 2%.
Europe accounts for 56% of major international events, in a market where Spain competes with established powers. Barcelona is the leading city in the world in terms of number of participants in international conferences, with 125,826 delegates and an economic return of 360 million.
Most meetings are medium-sized, between 150 and 999 attendees, which broadens opportunities for multiple Spanish destinations. Catalonia, Madrid and Andalusia account for more than 60% of events, although the presence of 57 cities in the ICCA ranking reflects a diversified offer with a presence across the entire territory.