How urban tourism is tackling climate challenges: the success story of Madrid and Seville

In a global landscape where climate change is one of the most pressing challenges, urban tourism is showing remarkable resilience.

Madrid and Seville, two of Spain’s most prominent inland capitals, are clear examples of this trend. Despite often extreme summer temperatures, with highs exceeding 40 degrees Celsius, these cities have maintained high tourism occupancy rates, proving that urban tourism can thrive even under challenging climatic conditions.

Hosteltur reports how Madrid and Seville are experiencing a summer tourism renaissance—a period that was once considered less favorable. Although the intense heat makes it difficult to explore the cities all day, more and more tourists are undeterred by the extreme weather and continue to visit these destinations year-round. This success can be attributed to the rich cultural, culinary, and urban experiences these cities offer, which are becoming increasingly important compared to the simple desire to escape the heat.

A fascinating trend is the rise of “tardeo”, an evening social phenomenon that takes place on rooftops, reminiscent of traditional beachside bars. Additionally, events such as nighttime concerts in historic gardens and rooftop hotel pools with stunning city views are becoming new summer attractions, rivaling beaches for tourists’ attention.

On the other hand, it is reccomended that coastal cities adopt nature-based solutions to mitigate the effects of climate change, such as rising sea levels and coastal erosion. These solutions, which include the creation of parks and green spaces, not only offer significant environmental benefits but also improve urban quality of life, creating natural barriers against flooding and reducing carbon emissions. It is crucial for coastal cities to adopt an integrated approach that considers land use, water management, and biodiversity protection to prepare for future challenges.

In conclusion, the success of Madrid and Seville in maintaining high levels of tourist appeal despite extreme heat demonstrates the importance of innovative urban planning and investment in human resources. These factors are essential for turning climate challenges into opportunities, ensuring prosperous and sustainable urban tourism.

Francesco Redi

President and founder at Twissen. Manager in Local Development, Tourism Policies,  EU Funds. He cooperates with several European universities, public bodies, development agencies, DMOs and enterprises.