Q COSTARICA — If you thought Costa Rica was already well-known in Europe, the numbers confirm that its popularity continues to grow: four renowned Spanish media outlets recently recommended it as a tourist destination.
The articles appeared in the newspaper El País, the magazines Elle and Travel & Leisure, and the newspaper La Razón—high-impact media in the Spanish market that, according to the Instituto Costarricense de Turismo (ICT)—Costa Rican Tourism Institute, allow them to reach nature-loving travelers who stay longer and generate greater economic benefits for local communities.
During the first five months of 2026, 20,178 Spanish tourists visited Costa Rica, 15.3% more than in the same period of 2025, according to data from the ICT.
“These editorial spaces allow us to showcase Costa Rica as an authentic, sustainable, and transformative destination to the Spanish market, one of Europe’s main source markets. These results are the fruit of the ongoing strategic efforts undertaken by the Instituto Costarricense de Turismo to maintain the destination’s visibility, relevance, and competitiveness in key international markets, generating greater travel consideration and contributing to attracting high-value visitors to the country,” stated Angélica Herra, ICT’s European market coordinator.
The newspaper El País, in its travel section, proposed a tour of the cantons of Golfito and Coto Brus, as well as national parks like Piedras Blancas and iconic beaches like Pavones. Meanwhile, Travel & Leisure titled its feature “Costa Rica, Pure Happiness,” while Elle described the country as a paradise for enjoying nature, luxury, and wellness.
Costa Rica also received the Inspira award from La Razón for “Mejor Destino para Mujeres Viajeras” (Best Destination for Women Travelers), a recognition that highlighted the country for inspiring and empowering women from around the world to travel and reconnect with themselves.
Spain is currently the fourth largest source of European tourists to Costa Rica, surpassed only by Germany, France, and the United Kingdom.