EN 
ES Gastronomy is trending. A little observation is all it takes to see the rise of food-centric tourism. This is further supported by the fourth edition of the Gastronomic Tourism Demand Study, based on surveys from 1,000 travellers. This study highlights valuable insights into the trends and interests of this type of tourist in Spain.
According to the study, demand for gastronomic tourism has surged over the past two years. An impressive 86.5% of Spanish travellers reported taking at least one trip or getaway centred on gastronomy. Additionally, one in five domestic tourists is specifically drawn to culinary experiences.
Gastronomic Tourism: Popular and Highly Valuable
Gastronomy-focused tourists represent a highly valuable segment for any destination: not only do they spend 30% more on food-related activities than the average traveller, but they also return to the destination several times a year. This form of tourism helps reduce seasonality, as gastronomic travellers visit at various times throughout the year. These food enthusiasts often engage in diverse culinary experiences, such as visiting wineries, shopping at local markets, attending festivals, and dining at restaurants that offer unique cultural experiences.
The aspects that gastronomic travellers most value include:
- A great selection of restaurants
- Access to local products and producers
- Designation of Origin or Protected Geographical Indication
The Gastronomic Traveller
The culinary tourist is a distinct type of traveller: seasoned, discerning, and highly connected. They gather inspiration from a mix of traditional sources, like family and friends, as well as the wealth of information available online to plan their perfect culinary holiday, from initial inspiration to tailored recommendations.
Top Gastronomic Destinations
When it comes to gastronomy, Spanish travellers have a clear favourite: the Basque Country, followed closely by Andalusia, with Galicia ranking third among the most popular regions.
The study emphasises the strong link between gastronomy and tourism, highlighting an opportunity to promote a more sustainable travel model. Culinary tourists are typically inclined to visit nearby areas, keen to immerse themselves in the authenticity of the local cuisine, while also taking the time to explore the local culture.
This trend opens up fresh opportunities for destination managers and tourism establishments, who can leverage their gastronomic heritage to create a compelling tourist offering. By doing so, they establish a competitive edge in today's market.
Let’s take advantage of this trend to promote the gastronomic elements of our surroundings, increasing visitor numbers and occupancy rates for tourist establishments.