The five Canarian municipalities recognised as part of the Most Beautiful Towns in Spain Association—Betancuria (Fuerteventura), Tejeda (Gran Canaria), Agulo (La Gomera), Teguise (Lanzarote), and Garachico (Tenerife)—received a remarkable 4.8 million visitors throughout 2024. This achievement reinforces their status as top destinations for both national and international tourists.
According to the Most Beautiful Towns in Spain Association, these municipalities have demonstrated exceptional capacity to attract visitors by blending rich cultural heritage with sustainable tourism initiatives and providing unique travel experiences. The association emphasises that these figures highlight the growing interest in rural and cultural tourism across the Canary Islands, which also boosts local economies and supports heritage preservation.
Tourism Breakdown: Strong International Presence
1. International and National Tourist Distribution
- Of the 4.8 million visitors, a substantial 2.5 million were international tourists, confirming the Canary Islands’ position as one of Europe’s most popular destinations.
- The remaining 2.3 million were domestic tourists, showcasing the increasing interest of Spanish residents in exploring the authentic charm of these villages.
2. Key Source Markets
- The primary international visitor sources were:
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- The association highlights that the cultural, historical, and scenic attractions of these towns are the main drivers for the continued interest of international travellers.
Detailed Visitor Statistics by Municipality
1. Betancuria (Fuerteventura)
- Total Visitors:440,033
- International: 239,523
- National: 200,510
- Highlights:
- Historical landmarks and traditional Canarian architecture are key attractions.
- Cultural events and local festivals draw significant attention from visitors.
2. Tejeda (Gran Canaria)
- Total Visitors:760,096
- International: 346,572
- National: 413,524
- Highlights:
- Scenic mountain landscapes and picturesque viewpoints are major draws.
- The village’s culinary offerings and artisan crafts are popular among tourists.
3. Agulo (La Gomera)
- Total Visitors:300,500
- International: 123,375
- National: 177,125
- Highlights:
- Colonial architecture and panoramic coastal views are key attractions.
- Cultural heritage sites and traditional village atmosphere enhance visitor experiences.
4. Teguise (Lanzarote)
- Total Visitors:2.4 million
- International: 1.4 million
- National: 942,968
- Highlights:
- Historic old town with cobblestone streets and colonial buildings.
- The Teguise Market is a major tourist attraction, offering local crafts, food, and entertainment.
5. Garachico (Tenerife)
- Total Visitors:922,871
- International: 340,332
- National: 582,539
- Highlights:
- Renowned for its volcanic natural pools (El Caletón) and historical monuments.
- Scenic promenades and local gastronomy attract both domestic and international visitors.
Tourism Trends and Economic Impact
1. Sustained Growth in Rural and Cultural Tourism
- The association notes that the steady influx of international visitors reaffirms the Canary Islands’ appeal as a leading European tourist destination.
- The increase in domestic tourism reflects a growing interest among Spanish residents in discovering the authenticity of rural villages.
2. Economic Contribution and Heritage Preservation
- The economic boost from tourism has contributed to local development and job creation in these municipalities.
- The focus on sustainable tourism helps in preserving cultural heritage and revitalising local economies, ensuring long-term sustainability.
Commitment to Quality and Cultural Promotion
The Most Beautiful Towns in Spain Association, which includes 122 localities across the country, is dedicated to:
- Promoting lesser-known rural destinations while maintaining high-quality standards.
- Organising cultural events and tourism promotion activities in Spain and internationally.
- Supporting sustainable tourism initiatives to preserve the natural and cultural heritage of member towns.
The association believes that Betancuria, Tejeda, Agulo, Teguise, and Garachico serve as exemplary models for balancing tourism growth with cultural preservation and environmental sustainability.
Growing Popularity and Future Prospects
The Canary Islands’ five most beautiful towns have consolidated their position as highly attractive tourist destinations by offering a blend of cultural richness, scenic beauty, and sustainable tourism experiences. Their ability to attract both national and international visitors highlights the rising trend of rural and cultural tourism, making them pivotal in strengthening the Canary Islands’ reputation as a diverse and vibrant travel destination.
The Most Beautiful Towns in Spain Association is committed to continuing its support for these towns through promotion, cultural initiatives, and sustainable tourism practices, ensuring that they remain key attractions for future generations of travellers.
