The eclipse fuels Spain’s tourism economy

This week’s total solar eclipse is a tremendous economic boost for Spain. Hundreds of thousands of additional tourists have visited the country, which is expected to generate, according to estimates, between 347 and 421 million euros in additional economic activity.

The Spanish Ministry of Economy projected 446,700 additional visitors to the provinces where the eclipse is total. Millions of Spaniards also traveled to the regions where the eclipse is total.

Searches on booking platforms for totality zones surged by more than 500%, with several locations selling out well in advance.

Demand for lodging, airline tickets, and events has surged in recent days. Hotel prices in cities like A Coruña and Bilbao have doubled or even tripled, and in Iceland—which is also on the eclipse’s path—prices have soared to over $1,000 per night. Special activities, such as hot-air balloon rides and boat tours during the eclipse, are being offered at exorbitant prices.

In addition to direct revenue, the Spanish government hopes the eclipse will also bring structural benefits by attracting more tourists to the country’s interior.

Analysts expect the three consecutive eclipses (2026, 2027, and 2028) to generate a total of more than one billion euros. The vast majority of the revenue comes from foreign visitors.