Spain welcomed a record-breaking 94 million tourists last year, solidifying its status as one of the world's most sought-after destinations. Renowned for its stunning Mediterranean coastline, diverse landscapes, and culturally rich cities, Spain continues to captivate travelers from around the globe.
However, the influx of visitors has sparked concerns among some residents regarding "overtourism." Issues such as overcrowding, water resource management, and the availability and affordability of housing have become focal points of debate.
In response, the Spanish government is addressing these concerns by implementing regulations, particularly targeting housing in major cities. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez recently unveiled a comprehensive 12-point plan aimed at alleviating the housing crisis. The plan includes stricter regulations on short-term rentals, primarily catering to tourists, in an effort to stabilize rising home and rental prices.
Despite these measures, Spain remains committed to tourism, which contributes significantly to the nation's economy, accounting for approximately 12% of its GDP.
Here's essential information to consider when planning your trip to Spain:
While Spain isn't imposing a blanket ban on tourists, some cities are implementing regulations on tourism rental properties.
In Malaga, a port city in Andalusia, new rental properties will be restricted in 43 neighborhoods where rentals exceed 8% of the residential housing. This policy, effective this month, will undergo a three-year trial period.
Barcelona intends to phase out all 10,000 apartments licensed for short-term rentals in the coming years to prioritize housing for full-time residents. The city plans not to renew any tourism apartment licenses after their expiration in 2028.
Travelers can still book hotel accommodations and short-term apartment rentals throughout Spain.
Spain is grappling with a growing housing affordability challenge. Soaring rents, especially in cities like Barcelona and Madrid, are outpacing income growth, particularly for young people. Housing prices are also steadily increasing, notably in urban and coastal regions.
Short-term rental contracts, primarily targeting tourists, are perceived to contribute to escalating rental costs for local residents.
Travelers renting vehicles or booking hotel stays in Spain will encounter increased paperwork due to a new law mandating hotels and car rental agencies to transmit personal information to the government for national security purposes.
Data collected includes passport details, home addresses, and payment information of travelers aged 14 and above.