Murcia headed for record tourism numbers in 2026, regional President

Exceltur projects an 8.8% increase in tourism sales for Murcia, as the regional president reveals record visitor figures

Murcia is heading into 2026 with its strongest tourism numbers ever, and regional president Fernando López Miras says there’s no sign of slowing down. Speaking at the Fitur tourism fair in Madrid during the event dedicated to the Region of Murcia, he spoke about a steady rise in visitors, international tourism and employment across the sector.

Data from Exceltur, the association of Spain’s main tourism companies, shows Murcia is set for one of the highest growth rates in the country, with tourism sales expected to rise by 8.8% this year. Along with the Valencian Community and the Balearic Islands, the region is leading the way for coastal destinations.

Between January and November last year, nearly 1.8 million people visited Murcia, and almost 1.5 million stayed in hotels. International visitors also hit record levels, spending more than ever and staying on average 11.2 days, well above the national average of seven days. Tourism employment is rising too, with more than 1,600 new jobs created in the sector, even during the off-season.

López Miras credited the growth to careful planning and collaboration with local businesses. “We have everything from festivals and traditions to landscapes and cuisine, but the real strength is the people and the companies that make these numbers possible,” he said.

In 2026, several cultural and religious events in Murcia will draw plenty of visitors. The 175th anniversaries of the Burial of the Sardine and the Bando de la Huerta, part of Murcia’s Spring Festival, will be one of the highlights. The Region will also celebrate Jubilee Years in Cehegín and Abanilla.

Murcia also launched a €10 million campaign at Fitur under the slogan ‘Felicidad de la buena’ to promote the Region of Murcia across Spain and Europe, reaching nearly 700 million people.

Images: CARM