Barcelona has joined London as Europe’s top hotel investment destination in 2026, according to CBRE’s latest European Hotel Investor Intentions Survey report.
The survey report, which is based on responses from more than 70 hotel investors across Europe, says Barcelona’s appeal comes from its ability to attract large numbers of leisure and business travellers. In the latter case, it continues to lead as one of Europe’s most popular locations to hold conferences and exhibitions. At the same time, tight regulation of tourist apartments and restrictions on new short-term rental licences are redirecting accommodation demand back towards hotels, while constraints on new hotel development continue to limit future supply growth.
The city has climbed from fifth place in 2025 to reach the top ranking with London. Madrid ranks third, with Paris and Milan sharing fourth place, reinforcing continued investor appetite for a mix of gateway and leisure-driven cities.
