Spain Braces for Busy, Costly Easter Holiday
Madrid, Spain – Millions of tourists are expected to descend upon Spain for Semana Santa (Holy Week) and Easter, running from March 29th to April 6th, 2026, making it one of the most significant periods for Spanish tourism. Travel and accommodation costs are anticipated to be higher than usual, particularly with Easter Monday, April 6th, designated as a public holiday in several regions including the Balearic Islands, Castilla-La Mancha, Catalonia, Navarre, the Basque Country, La Rioja, and Valencia.
According to data from travel platform KAYAK, interest in travelling to Spain this Easter is particularly strong among visitors from Denmark, Germany, and Austria. Spaniards themselves are also planning domestic breaks, with an average expected expenditure of €856 per person, according to a report by the Cetelem Observatory. Those aged 35-39 are budgeting the most, averaging €1,193 – 39 percent above the national average.
Accommodation will represent the largest portion of travel expenses, averaging €376, followed by transportation at €172. However, there is some good news for budget-conscious travellers: KAYAK reports that flights to domestic destinations within Spain will be nine percent cheaper compared to last year.
While coastal destinations remain popular, with 37 percent of tourists opting for beach holidays, rural tourism is expected to be a significant trend this year, attracting 40 percent of visitors. Santa Cruz de Tenerife is currently the most searched-for destination on KAYAK, with average flight prices around €245. Benidorm and the Costa Daurada are also proving popular choices, as are Madrid (2.38 percent) and Seville (1.72 percent) for those seeking city breaks. Average nightly accommodation costs in Madrid are €233.71, while Seville offers slightly more affordable options at €161.74. A week-long stay in Seville during Easter week currently has a lowest available price of around €900.
Travellers heading to Catalonia should be aware of a new tourist tax taking effect from April 1st. Rates will vary depending on the type of accommodation, ranging from €2 for campsites to €7 per night for five-star hotels and luxury campsites in Barcelona. Outside of Barcelona, rates will be slightly lower. The tax will be implemented progressively, with increases planned for 2027.
