At FITUR 2026 in Madrid (21-25 January), Galicia features its largest stand yet (1,138.5 square metres, 14% larger than 2025) in Pavilion 9, themed around “Galicia Calidade.” It includes informative modules on general tourism (thermal, active, nautical), spaces for certified establishments (Galicia Calidade, Q de Calidad, S de Sostenibilidad), provincial and city highlights, and around 50 presentations. Activities encompass gastronomic tastings (e.g., Galicia Calidade ice creams), an accessible Gastro Aula with demonstrations, showcooking, and tastings of local products, plus immersive showcases of the eclipse and other resources.
Galicia, the northwestern Spanish region celebrated for its rugged Atlantic coastline, Celtic heritage, lush green landscapes, world-famous seafood and wines, and the iconic Camino de Santiago pilgrim routes, is strengthening its visitor experience in 2026. The focus remains on sustainable, high-quality, and year-round tourism under the overarching brand “Galicia Calidade” (Galicia Quality), which highlights authenticity, identity, sustainability, nature, enogastronomy, culture, and a mild climate. This positions Galicia as a unique, experiential destination ahead of the Holy Year Xacobeo 2027.
Key developments include:
- Investments in thermal tourism, with ‚Ǩ7.8 million allocated to improve accommodation offerings through new balneario (spa) hotels and thalassotherapy properties, plus rehabilitation of existing thermal facilities across the territory. This supports Galicia’s strong position in wellness and health tourism, enhancing stays at renowned thermal resorts.
- Broader efforts to expand lodging capacity feature in the 2026 tourism budget of over ‚Ǩ125 million, which includes measures to modernise the sector, improve energy efficiency, and add new establishments alongside infrastructure for practical training. While no flagship luxury chain debuts are prominently tied to 2026 (with Spain’s larger openings concentrated elsewhere), chains like B&B Hotels have expanded in recent years near Santiago de Compostela, and ongoing projects support growth in rural, coastal, and urban boutique options.
These align with preparations for sustained demand, including increased accommodation linked to food and wine tourism (€2.3 million in related expansions) and overall deseasonalisation.
Galicia’s 2026 enhancements centre on immersive, diversified, and sustainable offerings, with over 50 destinations and initiatives showcased to promote quality tourism throughout the year.
A major highlight is the total solar eclipse on 12 August 2026, with Galicia serving as the primary gateway for viewing in Spain. The region promotes prime observation spots, special events, and packages combining eclipse experiences with its natural and cultural assets.
Promotional efforts include the launch and reinforcement of the Galicia Calidade country brand, new cultural itineraries beyond the Camino de Santiago (eight new “itinerarios culturales de inter√©s auton√≥mico” to highlight lesser-known heritage), the inclusive Camino Portugu√©s da Costa, the Galicia Spa Pilgrimage programme blending wellness with pilgrimage, the Cami√±o do Litoral, and events such as the 800th anniversary of the consecration of Tui Cathedral, Xacobeo concerts, and tourist trains.
Emphasis is placed on modalities like thermal tourism, active and nautical activities, enogastronomic routes (featuring products with Galicia Calidade seals, DOs, and PGIs), nature exploration, and sustainable practices.
Xos√© Merelles, Director de Turismo de Galicia, has outlined the vision for 2026: the budgets allow Galicia “afrontar el crecimiento sostenido de la demanda turistica y prepararnos para el Xacobeo 27,” advancing sector modernisation, training, and capacity while ensuring benefits are distributed across the territory. He has stressed responding to current realities to consolidate Galicia as a destination that grows responsibly.
