The OTB updates the results of the Sustainable Tourism Indicators System (SITS-OTB)

The Barcelona Tourism Observatory (OTB) has published a new update of the results of the Sustainable Tourism Indicators System (SITS-OTB), incorporating the latest available data for 27 of the 30 indicators that make up this monitoring system. The results are presented for the three usual geographical areas of analysis: Barcelona city, Barcelona region, and Destination Barcelona.

In the environmental dimension, the results show the continuity of some trends observed in recent years, such as the increase in the average distance travelled by tourists, associated with the growth of international tourism and, especially, intercontinental tourism. At the same time, dynamics linked to more sustainable mobility within the destination are being consolidated, especially in Barcelona region, where the proportion of visitors travelling actively is increasing. Also noteworthy is the increase in the percentage of tourism companies certified in sustainability.

Regarding the economic axis, tourism expenditure continues to grow and reaches record highs in both Barcelona city and Barcelona region. At the same time, some demand-related indicators point towards a reduction in seasonality, especially in Barcelona region, while the average length of stay continues the downward trend that began after the pandemic. In the labour market, the proportion of employment linked to tourism remains stable, although wage differences persist compared to other economic activities and between men and women.

The social and governance indicators reflect a stabilisation of citizens’ perception of tourism as rather beneficial for the city of Barcelona, following the decline observed the previous year. At the same time, tourism pressure decreases slightly and Destination Barcelona continues to deploy specific strategies for sustainable tourism and good governance.

Finally, the tourist satisfaction indicators once again show very positive results. The overall evaluation of the destination reaches the highest value in the historical series since 2018, while aspects such as accessibility and the perception of noise continue to improve. Indicators related to public safety also remain stable and at high levels of satisfaction among visitors.

More information: SITS-OTB results interactive report and Executive summary