Costa del Sol to experience historic growth in 2026

The Costa del Sol will experience its biggest tourism boom ever, thanks to a powerful combination of world-class culture and gastronomic expertise, as well as the expansion of luxury hotels. 

The prestigious magazine is the authoritative source for forecasts Condé Nast TravelerMalaga is one of the top 10 must-see places in Spain and Portugal by 2026, according to.

According to the publication, the region prepares for a more “dazzling” year and a new dawn that will cement its status as one of the must-visit destinations in 2026. The main catalyst is an increase in high-end accommodation. The coast is welcoming a number of landmark luxury openings including a highly-anticipated Four Seasons Marbella property and The Meliá Collection in Estepona. In Estepona, the addition of luxury accommodation has transformed it into a centre of Mediterranean glamour.

What draws you? The place to see, the culture and cuisine

The region’s cultural scene, which is hip and trendy, also plays a role in attracting international visitors. Malaga’s cultural centre, Malaga city continues to be home to world-renowned artists. Picasso Museum Malaga Feria offers a vibrant, authentic and lively atmosphere. The future of the Malaga Feria is a major project. CaixaForum Malaga The current artistic landscape, with its vibrant cultural street life and vibrant arts scene, is already a huge draw. The magazine states that the area is “eternal but always changing” because of the culture and lifestyle.

The third pillar in this boom is Gastronomy. The publication heaps praise on the Michelin-starred dining scene, highlighting Blossom, Kaleja, and José Carlos García in the capital, along with Sollo in Fuengirola, as establishments that offer both culinary excellence and social currency.

Malaga Airport is ready for its arrival

Malaga Airport (AGP), which is a major airport in Spain, has already responded to the surge of visitors by implementing major expansion plans. This response to the traffic explosion can be clearly seen. The recovery from the pandemic saw a dramatic increase in passenger numbers, which went from 9 million passengers in 2021 to 18.4 millions in 2022. (This is nearing the benchmark set by COVID in 2019 of 19.8million). By 2024, it had broken all records by welcoming almost 25 million passengers. The figure is projected to be exceeded once again at the end of 2025.

A noticeable shift in the demographics of Malaga’s visitors is another fascinating development. The British are still the most loyal visitors to Malaga. Germany, Netherlands/France and Germany follow closely behind. However, the United States is the fastest growing demographic. The new direct flights allowed American visitor numbers to grow by more than 26 per cent between 2024 and 2025. This shows a shift in the region’s core audience.

The coast’s major towns will all benefit from this, whether it is the glitzy nightlife in Marbella (dubbed “thermometer for Mediterranean glamour”) or the warmth and authenticity of Torremolinos and Benalmadena. The Costa del Sol is set to break all previous tourism records by 2026, with all the stars aligned.