Tourist occupancy on the Costa Daurada and the Ebre reaches 95% in August after a tough July

Tourist occupancy on the Costa Daurada and the Terres de l'Ebre reached up to 95% during August, after a July that was harder to get started. This figure reflects the consolidation of the tourism sector despite changes in visitors' habits and global conditions.

Tourists prefer shorter stays and distribute their visits throughout the summer, with a higher concentration in August. Rural houses in the Ebre area also recorded a slightly better summer than the previous year, especially thanks to the first half of August coinciding with the eclipse.

Tourist occupancy on the Costa Daurada and the Ebre

Why is it relevant for the local inhabitants?

The 95% occupancy in August indicates that tourism remains a key economic driver for the Costa Daurada and the Ebre, with a direct impact on employment and local businesses. The fact that July is harder to start implies a change in the tourist season, with greater concentration in August, affecting planning and services.

How has the summer of 2026 evolved compared to previous years?

According to the Hospitality and Tourism Business Federation of Tarragona, the 2026 season resembles those of 2024 and 2025, all considered good campaigns. August has surpassed July, which is increasingly harder to start, while the national market has slightly increased and the French market has decreased somewhat.

Profile and behavior of tourists

Which tourists visit the Costa Daurada and the Ebre?

They are mostly Spanish tourists, followed by French and British. The British and Irish maintain a constant increase, while the Germans have slightly decreased. Emerging markets include the Portuguese and Polish, who are gaining presence, and local specialists are working to consolidate them.

What are this year’s stays like?

Stays are shorter, between three and four days, as visitors prefer to spread vacations over several getaways rather than long summers. This trend reflects a change in tourists' priorities, who choose to spend more intensively in fewer days.

Occupancy in Rural Houses and future outlook

What has been the occupancy in the Ebre Rural Houses?

The rural houses recorded 30% occupancy in July, mainly on weekends, while in August they reached 80%, slightly better than last year. The first half of August was exceptional, thanks to the solar eclipse that attracted foreign tourists to rural tourism.

What are the expectations for autumn?

Bookings for the Diada holiday bridge in September are weak so far, but occupancy between 70% and 75% is expected during September and October, thanks to efforts to extend the season beyond the traditional summer.

Article source: Mar Rovira / Catalan News Agency