Spain is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, known for its rich culture, historic landmarks, and breathtaking scenery. From the architectural wonders of Barcelona and Madrid’s vibrant art scene to the beaches of the Costa del Sol and the Balearic Islands, there is something for every traveller. UNESCO heritage sites are popular among visitors. TravelJingles in conversation with Elena Orland, Director of Spain Tourism, India.
Spain’s popularity among Indian tourists is growing rapidly. What key strategies has your office deployed to nurture this trend?
Spain is attracting both traditional tourists and, increasingly, a greater number of cosmopolitan travelers open to new experiences off the beaten track.
Spain is one of the world’s leading tourism destinations, ranking second only to France, so the country is well equipped to deliver personalized experiences, from the rising demand for luxury and wellness retreats—particularly among High Net-Worth Individuals (HNIs) and urban elites—to eco-conscious and community-based travel experiences favored by millennials and Gen Z.
This status is owed not only to its geographical, cultural, and natural diversity, but also to the outstanding professionalism of the tourism sector that fulfills high-quality standards.
You’ve been spotlighting regions like Extremadura and Navarra—often overlooked gems. What unique experiences do these areas offer Indian travellers?
Extremadura is full of hidden gems such as the Roman archaeological site of Mérida, the cities of Cáceres and Plasencia, the Royal Monastery of Guadalupe, or the town of Trujillo. Birdwatching in the Monfragüe National Park or the blooming of cherry trees in Jerte Valley is a must.
Navarra is equally captivating. You can’t miss out on visiting the medieval Castle of Olite or getting lost in the serene Valley of Baztan, with its quaint villages, picturesque hamlets, and rolling greenery. Nature lovers have endless options, from historic routes, such as the Way of St. James, that traverse the region, to the rugged Pyrenees, with amazing forests to enjoy in spring and autumn, or even in winter- if you are a snow person.
And the whole region stands out for their love of vegetables and farm-fresh produce, with a gastronomy that shares a common past with Basque cuisine. Simply delicious.
With 2026 marked as the India-Spain Dual Year, what collaborative efforts in tourism and culture can we look forward to?
Spain and India are among the world’s foremost cultural powerhouses, each boasting a remarkably rich heritage with an exceptional legacy of both tangible and intangible cultural assets.
However, because of the geographical distance between them, much of each country’s culture has remained largely unfamiliar to the people of the other.
The celebration of the Dual Year in 2026 will help to alleviate this gap by organizing multiple cultural activities that will introduce Spanish and Indian audiences to the art and culture of each other. And of course, to promote Spanish destinations, we will hold important events for travel agents and consumers with the aim of outlining similarities among both cultures.
Solo travel is becoming a powerful movement, particularly among Indian women. How is Spain evolving to support and welcome these travellers?
Solo travel for women is much more than a regular vacation. It’s about building confidence, discovering new interests and talents, and living life on your terms. We want to promote that kind of experience.
Spain is a very safe and warm country, and women travelers can enjoy countless experiences, from hiking on natural trails or doing activities associated with nature tourism or ecotourism, to visiting a vineyard or joining a wine tasting course in one of the many wine routes you can find in Spain, such as those in Castilla y León, La Rioja, Cataluña o Galicia.
The different Romanesque routes in Castilla y León, Aragón and Cataluña, Islamic Art Routes in Andalucía or the Way of Saint James (a spiritual Route in the north of Spain), also guarantee unforgettable experiences. And of course, they can relax in beautiful cities like Valencia, Santander or San Sebastian.
