Spain Introduces New Regulations to Address Overtourism and Housing Crisis
The measures target short-term rentals and other tourism practices while maintaining access for visitors.
- Malaga has implemented a three-year ban on new holiday rental licenses across 43 districts to curb overtourism and protect housing for residents.
- Barcelona plans to phase out all 10,000 short-term rental apartments by 2028, prioritizing long-term housing for locals.
- Seville is introducing noise monitoring requirements for holiday rentals and considering entrance fees for popular tourist sites like Plaza de España.
- Protests across Spain in 2024 highlighted public frustration over rising rents and overcrowding caused by mass tourism.
- Tourists can still visit Spain and book hotels or existing rental properties, but stricter regulations may limit future options.