image captionEdinburgh is one of Scotland’s most popular destinations for international tourists 17 May 2024 13:40 BST
Updated 22 minutes ago
Tourism industry bosses have said a record high in international visitor numbers to Scotland in 2023 will be a “turning point” for the industry.
About 4 million people from abroad visited the country last year, an increase of 15% compared to 2019, the year before the coronavirus pandemic.
The unprecedented numbers from North America helped break the previous record of 3.7 million set in 2018.
Visitors to Scotland will spend £3.6 billion in 2023, an increase of 41% on 2019 and 13% on 2022, but these increases do not take inflation into account.
Scotland is the only UK country to see an increase compared to 2019, but the Office for National Statistics (ONS) International Passenger Survey found that the majority of countries and territories saw an increase compared to 2022.
VisitScotland chief executive Malcolm Roughead said international tourism was “hugely important” to Scotland’s economy.
He added: “These figures mark a turning point for Scottish tourism, with visitor numbers and spending exceeding 2019 levels, not only recovering but also showing a decisive increase in visitor numbers. It shows,” he added.
VisitScotland’s Vicky Miller told BBC Scotland News that the figures were a “significant milestone” for the tourism industry.
She estimates that just under 20% of visitors to Scotland currently come from international markets.
She added: “This 19% from the international market is hugely important in terms of spend, as they stay longer and spend more than usual. They account for 46% of tourism value to Scotland. “There is,” he added.
image captionThe Isle of Skye boasts some of Scotland’s most spectacular views
VisitScotland’s own research shows that travelers are increasingly seeking unique experiences such as tartan and bagpipe lessons, reflecting a desire to have a “once in a lifetime” holiday, Miller said. said.
Wellness activities such as wild swimming and food and beverage excursions are also popular.
The numbers show a 16% increase in visitors from North America and a 19% increase in visitors from Europe.
Tourists from “other countries”, including Australia and China, saw the biggest jump in 2022, increasing by 53%.
