Data from ObservaTUR, a tourism monitoring and analysis platform, indicates that the overall economic impact of the visit could range between 90 million and 125 million euros.
In Madrid, where the Pope is scheduled to visit between 6 and 9 June,
estimates from Data Appeal Mabrian suggest that tourism-related spending could reach approximately 73.8
million euros, supported by an estimated 1.8 million attendees expected to
participate in related events.
Food and beverage services are projected to account for the largest share
of visitor expenditure, representing 57.3 million euros or 78% of the total
impact. Transport spending is estimated at 12 million euros, while
accommodation expenditure is expected to reach 4.5 million euros.
Accommodation data also indicates increased demand during the visit.
According to Data Appeal Mabrian, average hotel rates in Madrid for the weekend
of 5-7 June 2026 reached 298 euros per night, representing a 4.5% increase
compared with the same period in the previous year.
Data from STR shows that hotel occupancy levels in Madrid for 6-8 June are currently running between two and four percentage points higher than comparable dates in 2025. Meanwhile, projections from the Madrid Hotel Business Association (AEHM) indicate average occupancy levels of approximately 82% during the visit, with occupancy expected to exceed 87% on Saturday, 6 June.
Barcelona is also recording stronger demand during the Pope’s visit on 9
and 10 June. According to STR, hotel occupancy is currently tracking four to
seven percentage points above comparable levels recorded in 2025.
Previous papal visits have also generated notable tourism and economic
impacts in Spain. According to data cited by ObservaTUR, the visit of Pope Benedict XVI to Barcelona in 2010 generated
an estimated 29.8 million euros for the local economy, including 25.2 million
euros in direct visitor spending on accommodation, dining, transportation and
retail activities.
Similarly, World Youth Day 2011 in Madrid
generated 207.2 million euros in direct attendee expenditure. During the event,
overnight stays in the Spanish capital increased by 29%, while post-event
surveys indicated that 90% of international pilgrims intended to revisit Spain
in the future.
Internationally, papal visits have also delivered substantial economic
benefits. During the visit of Pope Francis to Bogotá in 2017, more than 600,000
visitors attended an open-air Mass, generating over US$61 million for the local
economy.
The findings highlight the role of faith-based tourism and major religious events in attracting domestic and international visitors, supporting local businesses and increasing destination visibility.
Gloria Guevara, President and
CEO of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), said: “Major religious tourism events such as papal
visits clearly demonstrate the powerful ability of Travel & Tourism to generate immediate economic impact while also
delivering long-term value for destinations.
Beyond the significant boost to local businesses, employment and visitor
spending, these moments place destinations firmly on the global stage,
strengthening their international profile and enhancing future demand. Spain is
uniquely positioned to leverage this visit to showcase not only its rich
cultural and religious heritage, but also the strength, resilience and
diversity of its tourism offering.”
Tags: Gloria Guevara, World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Spain Marbian
