This study delves into the digital footprint of Chinese tourists in Barcelona from 2017 to 2019, uncovering their behavioral patterns and preferences through social media analysis. The data reveals a pronounced interest in Barcelona’s urban landscape, with a particular focus on cultural heritage sites and museums. This trend highlights the potential for urban areas to attract international tourists, emphasizing the significance of cultural tourism. Seasonal influences are overshadowed by topical trends, indicating a dynamic tourist behavior responsive to current global events. The geographical analysis shows a clear preference among Chinese tourists for major Spanish cities, particularly Barcelona and Madrid. This preference underscores an inclination towards urban cultural experiences over rural or coastal tourism. Within Barcelona, the spatial distribution is concentrated around key cultural landmarks, extending from the iconic La Rambla to the prestigious Passeig de Gràcia. This pattern suggests the necessity of sustainable tourism strategies to manage the influx in these specific areas. Our findings suggest the need for targeted strategies to foster harmonious cohabitation between tourists and host communities. By understanding and respecting the digital footprints of tourists, cities like Barcelona can develop balanced, culturally sensitive approaches to tourism that benefit both visitors and local residents. This study offers a framework for achieving mutual respect and balanced coexistence in the increasingly complex landscape of global tourism.