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Benidorm and Valencia Lead Strong March Tourism Surge as UK Visitors Drive Growth

 

Benidorm / 28 March 2026

 

Valencian Community, Spain / London – The Valencian Community has reported a strong start to the 2026 tourism season, with hotel occupancy across the region holding firm at high levels during the first half of March, driven largely by international demand — particularly from the United Kingdom.

 

According to data from HOSBEC, average occupancy across the region reached approximately 76%, slightly exceeding 2025 levels and signalling continued resilience in Spain’s Mediterranean tourism sector despite wider global uncertainties.

 

Benidorm Strengthens Position as UK Favourite

Benidorm remains the standout destination, recording 77.9% occupancy in early March, with forecasts indicating continued stability through the remainder of the month.

 

The British market has further cemented its dominance, now accounting for over 50% of all hotel guests in the resort — a significant increase year-on-year. This reinforces Benidorm’s long-standing position as a key destination for UK holidaymakers, supported by its extensive hotel infrastructure, affordability and year-round appeal.

 

Other international markets, including Ireland, Belgium and the Netherlands, continue to contribute steadily, underlining Benidorm’s highly internationalised tourism profile.

 

Costa Blanca Shows Stable but Mixed Performance

Across the wider Costa Blanca region (excluding Benidorm), occupancy reached around 74%, reflecting a slight dip compared to last year but still indicating solid demand.

 

International tourism continues to grow in importance, with the UK remaining the leading overseas market, alongside strong contributions from Nordic and Central European countries. However, some areas — particularly southern Alicante — have seen more pronounced fluctuations, suggesting a more uneven recovery across sub-regions.

 

Valencia City Boosted by Events and International Appeal

The Valencia region has seen notable growth, with occupancy rising to 74.8% across the province and nearly 80% in the city itself.

 

This increase has been partly driven by major cultural and business events, including the internationally renowned Fallas Festival, which continues to attract both domestic and international visitors.

 

The city’s tourism profile is becoming increasingly global, with visitors from the United States, Italy, the UK and Germany all contributing to demand, particularly in higher-end hotel categories.

 

Castellón Gains Momentum with Events and Domestic Tourism

In Castellón Province, occupancy has edged upwards to nearly 75%, supported in part by regional events such as the Magdalena Festival.

 

While the domestic Spanish market remains dominant in this area, there are clear signs of growing international interest, with visitors from France, Germany and the UK increasingly contributing to hotel demand.

 

Outlook: Strong Foundations Ahead of Easter Peak

Tourism leaders say the figures point to a stable and increasingly international market as the region heads into the critical Easter period. Forward bookings for the second half of March and early April remain strong, with occupancy expected to rise further.

 

The data also highlights a broader trend: Spain’s Mediterranean destinations continue to rely heavily on international visitors, with UK travellers playing a particularly pivotal role in sustaining occupancy levels.

 

Despite some regional variations, the overall outlook remains positive, with industry experts confident that the Valencian Community will maintain its position as one of Europe’s leading holiday destinations heading into the peak spring and summer seasons.