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People have always had a need to travel, either to explore and discover new lands or for our own enjoyment.

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The origin of tourism occurs when the young nobles of the countries of northern and western Europe made a trip through Germany, Italy and Greece with the aim of educating themselves on history, art and cultural heritage.

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This custom became widespread among the wealthier classes and spread to other parts of the world, such as America.  Similarly, religious pilgrimages that were already popular during the Middle Ages continued during this period.

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Started in the second half of the 18th century, it produced a great economic, social and technological change.  As a result of these changes, there was an exodus from the rural regions to the growing large cities, which needed labor for the new industry.  Thus, new social classes appeared.  Developments in transportation were also key.  Improvements in the transport of goods and passengers contributed to the birth of leisure, new forms of entertainment and travel.  People mainly traveled by train, taking advantage of rail networks connecting destinations in Europe and other parts of the world.

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The 19th century saw the creation of the first travel agencies.  One of the pioneers was Thomas Cook & Son, which was the first to offer excursions and vacations for groups, which included transportation, accommodation and meal tickets, thus lowering costs.  This would be the origin of what we now know as package tours.

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In the first half of the 20th century, the tourism industry continued to grow thanks to the mass production of buses and automobiles.  Coastal tourism began to gain importance and after World War II the Mediterranean coast grew rapidly in popularity.  Likewise, improvements in air transport (charter flights) as well as advances in labor legislation and a growth in social welfare led to a boom in tourism.

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The tourism sector suffered a recession during the 1970s, mainly due to the energy crisis, leading to lower costs and prices. That's when mass tourism emerged. Travelling went from being something only for an exclusive group to become a leisure activity within the reach of many.

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In the following decades, there was a progressive internationalization of hotel companies, travel agencies and airlines.  New products and new leisure activities were also offered, revolving around sports and health, among others.

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Today, the tourism sector has become one of the great economic engines in many countries, forming part of the international political agenda.  In recent years, with low-cost flights and the existence of alternative accommodations, managed by online companies, it is much easier for tourists to afford to travel and they can design their itinerary and experiences to their liking.