Top 5 Ports in Spain in 2024

In 2024, the maritime industry in Spain continues to thrive, with the top 5 ports in Spain leading the charge in cargo handling and economic activity.

These bustling ports—Barcelona, Bilbao, Valencia, Algeciras, and Cartagena—serve as critical hubs for international trade, facilitating the movement of vast quantities of goods across the globe. Their strategic locations, advanced infrastructure, and high capacity for various types of cargo underscore their importance in the global supply chain, driving both regional and national economic growth.

Port of Bilbao

Located on the northern coast of Spain, the Port of Bilbao is a significant maritime gateway for the Basque Country and the broader European market. It is renowned for its advanced infrastructure, handling a diverse range of cargo, including containers, bulk goods, and industrial products. The port’s strategic location near major Atlantic shipping routes makes it an important hub for import and export activities, fostering economic growth and regional development. Between January and April 2024, the port saw 11.5 million tons of cargo unloaded.

Port of Cartagena

The Port of Cartagena, located on Spain’s southeastern coast, is a prominent port known for its diverse operations, including container traffic, bulk cargo, and cruise tourism. Almost 13 million tons of cargo has passed through this port since the beginning of 2024. It plays a significant role in the regional economy, serving as a major gateway for imports and exports. The port’s modern facilities and strategic position in the Mediterranean basin enhance its capacity to support various industrial and commercial activities, contributing to the economic development of the Murcia region.

Port of Barcelona

Over 22 million tons of cargo were processed between January and April 2024 at the Port of Barcelona. It is unquestionably one of the busiest and most significant ports in the Mediterranean. It plays a crucial role in Spain’s economy. It serves as a major hub for container traffic, cruise ships, and ferry services. The port facilitates extensive trade connections with Europe, Asia, and Africa. In addition to cargo operations, it is a key player in the logistics and distribution network, enhancing its status as a critical node for international commerce and tourism.

Port of Valencia

With more than 26 million tons of cargo passing through the Port of Valencia between January and April 2024, this is Spain’s largest container port and one of the busiest in Europe. It serves as a vital link in global maritime trade, with extensive connections to international shipping routes. The port handles a wide variety of cargo types, including containers, vehicles, and bulk goods. Its modern facilities and strategic location on the Mediterranean coast make it a key player in Spain’s logistics and supply chain networks, significantly contributing to the regional and national economy.

Port of Algeciras

Spain’s largest port is once again the Port of Algeciras, with just under 36 million tons of cargo processed between January and April 2024. It is one of the largest ports in Europe and the Mediterranean, situated at the crossroads of major shipping routes between Europe, Africa, and the Americas. It specializes in container transshipment, liquid bulk, and general cargo. The port’s deep-water facilities and advanced logistics infrastructure enable it to handle some of the world’s largest vessels, making it a crucial hub for international maritime trade and a key driver of economic activity in southern Spain.