Survey Highlights Reduced Travel and Dining Budgets Among Spaniards in 2026

Overview of Spending Patterns in Spain’s Travel and Dining Sectors

Recent data from Spain’s National Statistics Institute (CIS) unveil a trend where Spaniards are tightening their belts on travel and dining out in 2025. Despite steady tourist arrivals, personal spending in these areas is on the decline.

Changing Vacation Lengths and Travel Choices

According to the CIS survey titled “Tourism and Gastronomy”, there is a noticeable shift away from longer vacations. The proportion of Spaniards planning holidays longer than two weeks dropped from 24.7% in 2023 to only 19.3% in 2025. In contrast, shorter breaks of less than a week rose from 12.6% to 17.6%.

At present, a significant 28.1% still opt for week-long vacations, while 13.6% of the population do not engage in travel or dining out at all. This pattern reflects a move toward financial prudence with more people choosing local excursions or preferring home-based activities over traditional trips.

Dining Out: Fewer Visits and Lower Bills

Dining habits have also adjusted. While 30.5% of those surveyed visit restaurants two to three times monthly, and 29.1% dine out more than thrice a month, many are spending less. Over half (55.7%) limit their meal spending to between €15 and €30, with only a tiny fraction (1.8%) splurging over €70 per meal. These findings are consistent with data from major reservation platforms, showing an average spend of about €27 per meal for locals, with tourists paying around 15% more.

Preferences in Domestic Travel and Holiday Dining

Coastal Destinations Remain in Demand

The CIS study finds that more than half (51.3%) of domestic travellers favor coastal areas, with 37.5% heading to charming seaside towns and 24.8% to bustling coastal cities. Other favored vacation styles include cultural tourism (39.2%), nature excursions (34.9%), and rural getaways (30%).

Holiday Dining Habits with a Budget Mindset

Dining out during vacations also mirrors a budget-oriented approach. Approximately 27% eat out two to three times weekly while on holiday, and 25.3% dine out more than three times a week. Daily restaurant visits are less common (22%), while 8.8% avoid eating out altogether, and 16% restrict themselves to once a week.

Nevertheless, over half (51.7%) value dining out for its social aspects, with food enjoyment and health reasons also motivating their choices.

Historical Context: Spaniards and Travel Spending

Historically, Spain has upheld a strong culture of travel and culinary enjoyment, bolstered by its mild climate, scenic coastlines, and rich gastronomy. Long holidays and regular dining out were common, reflecting not only pleasure but social cohesion. Economic shifts and global pressures have nudged consumers toward more cautious spending, which is not an isolated trend but part of a broader European pattern where travelers balance aspiration with affordability.

Implications for Tourism and Leisure

The observed budgeting tendencies among Spaniards suggest that the travel and hospitality industries may witness increased demand for shorter trips and mid-range dining options. This trend could compel providers to tailor experiences that marry quality with cost-effectiveness.

Coastal and cultural destinations remain strong draws, pointing to a resilient tourism sector adapting to new spending habits but continuing to thrive on Spain's natural and cultural assets.

Summary of Key Findings

• Shorter vacations are becoming more popular, with a decline in extended holidays.
• Dining out frequency is somewhat reduced, accompanied by lower per-meal spending.
• Coastal destinations lead in domestic travel preference, underscoring Spain's appeal as a maritime and beach haven.
• Social and enjoyment factors still make dining out important even when budgets are tighter.

These trends indicate a more budget-conscious traveler profile without losing interest in beach and cultural experiences. The travel and hospitality industry’s agility in providing affordable, satisfying options will be crucial as Spanish consumers recalibrate their leisure spending.

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