Barcelona’s Tourism Industry: Insights and Trends for Interning

Over the years, Barcelona has trodden the fine line between its fascinating past and the cutting edge of modernity, making it a magnet for interns and travellers alike from around the world. From the shaded roads of the Gothic Quarter to the innovative culinary establishments, the city seems build specially for exploration and discovery. 

Barcelona has witnessed a substantial growth in its tourism sector over the years. Back in 1990, Barcelona’s hotels – which account for the largest share of overnight tourists in the city – hosted a very respectable 1.73 million guests. By 2022, however, this number had ballooned to nearly seven million, even with the dampening effect of the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.)

From being a hidden gem on the Iberian Peninsula to becoming one of Europe’s most visited cities, Barcelona’s journey over the past few decades has been transformative. The city has strategically positioned itself by leveraging its rich cultural heritage, architectural marvels like Gaudí’s Sagrada Familia, and its buzzing culinary scene.

Barcelona’s tourism boom can largely be attributed to several sectors.

Culinary tourism thrives with its Michelin-starred restaurants and traditional tapas bars. Cultural and heritage tourism is spurred by its UNESCO World Heritage sites and numerous museums. Adventure seekers flock to its beaches, while shoppers find solace in its bustling markets and designer boutiques.

All of this works in concert to create one hell of a tourism destination, which is a real asset not just to Barcelona, but Spain as a whole.

Tourism is a linchpin of Barcelona’s economy, contributing significantly to its GDP and employment. This is reflected in the fact that 14% of the city’s GDP came from tourist activity and 9% of employment in the city is in the tourism sector. The influx of international visitors has spurred the growth of ancillary sectors such as hospitality, travel services, and retail, as well.

By becoming an intern in Barcelona’s fast-growing tourism industry, you can become a critical part of the day-to-day workings and national importance of this breathtaking city. So, how would you go about this?

First thing’s first, identify your area of interest within tourism itself. Are you passionate about the culinary arts? Does heritage and conservation appeal most? Or adventure tourism? Or event management?

Tailoring your search to niche areas can open doors to specialised organisations and unique experiences which can really put the wind into your career’s sails and ensure you get the most out of the opportunity.

Now that you’ve honed your search down to a specific area within the diverse tourism sector, the next step is putting yourself out there in front of potential employers. A successful internship application requires a well-crafted CV and cover letter that align with the industry’s demands.

On your CV, ensure that you highlight your relevant skills, list any experiences (these don’t have to be hyper-relevant, but of course relevant experience helps), and ensure you explain your passion for tourism, and articulate how your unique perspective can contribute to the sector or specific company’s growth. A cover letter may be required, but not always – from our experience, it never hurts so is worth taking a bit of time to do!

Understanding Spain’s visa requirements is crucial. It can all be quite complicated, but in general, EU citizens may not need a work permit, while non-EU citizens should explore options like the Student Internship Visa.

The good news is that, by embarking on a tourism internship in Barcelona with Beyond Academy, we will be able to cut through some of this red tape for you, though. Get in touch with one of our experts here and let’s get the ball rolling.

In response to the increasing tourist footfall, Barcelona has begun prioritising sustainable and responsible tourism. Efforts include promoting local businesses, emphasising eco-friendly practices, and advocating for respectful tourist behaviour. Interns can engage in initiatives that align with responsible tourism and contribute to preserving the city’s charm.

The integration of technology, such as virtual tours and digital guides, has reshaped visitor experiences. Prospective interns in Barcelona’s tourism industry may well find opportunities in startups focusing on travel tech, thus contributing to, and learning from, a range of new and innovative trends and even play a role in the future of tourism.

Immersing oneself in the local culture and language can be enriching. Interns can engage in language exchange meetups, partake in local festivities, and explore Barcelona’s diverse neighborhoods.

Networking is key in Barcelona’s tourism industry. Attending industry conferences, workshops, and social events can pave the way for meaningful connections and learning opportunities.

To make the most of your internship, don’t go it alone. Look out for people in your organisation who have been around the block and seek mentorship. Stay curious and be open to cross-sectoral opportunities within the tourism industry in order to get even more out of the experience.

Adapting to the workplace culture in Barcelona entails understanding the local dynamics, including the importance of siestas, late meal timings, and a more relaxed pace of life. Interns should be observant and respectful, ensuring seamless integration into the professional environment.

Managing living costs is crucial for interns, who tend to operate on a . Exploring shared accommodation, utilising public transportation, and embracing local eateries can lead to a more affordable and authentic experience.

We’ve written a full guide on how to make the most of your internship in Barcelona here, including key tips and tricks from those who’ve trodden the path previously.

Interns should approach their stint with a mindset of continuous learning. Seeking feedback, pursuing additional certifications, and staying updated on industry trends can aid in career progression within Barcelona’s tourism sector.

Interns can play a pivotal role in promoting sustainable practices within the organizations they join, thus contributing to Barcelona’s ongoing efforts to balance tourism with preservation.

As we touched upon earlier, Barcelona’s tourism sector has been booming for a number of years and, set against the background of a the rapid rise in technology, is ripe for innovative ideas. You may therefore find opportunities to branch out and establish ventures that cater to emerging trends and demands.

If you still need a bit of convincing in terms of what an internship can do for your career trajectory and long-term success, we’ve compiled a comprehensive database of testimonials from some of our worldwide intern community. Check them out here to hear their stories.

Ready to get started on your journey as an intern in Barcelona’s tourism & hospitality industries? Get all the information you need and more here.