27 September

World Tourism Day

What does World Tourism Day celebrate?

World Tourism Day is an event organized by the WTO (United Nations World Tourism Organization) with the aim of making the world aware of the role of tourism, as well as its impact, on a social, cultural, political and economic level. Although its observance was established in 1979 in the city of Torremolinos (Spain), it was first held in 1980 with a single theme: "Tourism's contribution to the preservation of cultural heritage and to peace and mutual understanding." Ever since, each edition has adhered to a specific topic that is selected beforehand by the WTO assembly.

When is World Tourism Day?

World Tourism Day is held every year and, since 1979, on September 27. This date was chosen as it coincided with one of the most important milestones for global tourism: the approval of the WTO Bylaws (in 1970).

What does tourism mean for Spain?

Tourism is the economic engine of Spain. Based on data gathered in 2019 by Hosteltur, the impact of this sector on Spain's GDP is 14.6%, which translates into a contribution of more than 175 billion euros and the creation of 2.8 million jobs. It grew at an average rate of 3.38% from 2010 to 2018, and after the pandemic (it accounted for 5% in 2020), it is expected to regain its prominent role in coming years.

What type of tourism can you enjoy in Spain?

There are several types of tourism that can be experienced in Spain:

  • Sun and beach tourism: the good weather, especially in the summer months, makes coastal locations (such as Valencia, Alicante, Malaga and Barcelona) the most popular destinations for tourists to spend their vacation.
  • Rural tourism: intended for those who, on their days off, prefer a more relaxed and peaceful atmosphere. Galicia, Asturias and Cantabria are some of the places in Spain you can visit if you love this type of tourism.
  • Domestic tourism: the kind of tourism done by those who, instead of visiting landmarks in other countries, decide to discover the most beautiful spots in their own.
  • Sustainable tourism: that in which any activity that is done seeks to minimize the impact on the environment and local culture.

But there are other types of tourism, like food tourism, which lets travelers savor the most exquisite delicacies; wine tourism, for wine lovers; and adventure tourism, for people who are very active and enjoy extreme sports.

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Other important dates

  • Columbus Day commemorates the arrival of Christopher Columbus on the island of Guanani, an event that came to be known as "the discovery of America" and provided the first contact between Europe and America. 
  • World Energy Saving Day is celebrated on October 21. Its main objective is to raise awareness about the value of carrying out small actions to promote energy saving.
  • Halloween is a festival of Celtic origin that represents the return of the spirits of the dead to the world of the living. It is celebrated the night before All Saints Day, and over time, the tradition has spread around the world.