Residents Clash with Overtourism, Housing Crisis, and the Future of the City

In Barcelona's Gracia neighborhood, Txema Escorsa feels displaced. The familiar faces of his neighbors have been replaced by a constant stream of tourists, and his income struggles to keep up with rising rent. He questions whether leaving would mean abandoning the city's essence, but the situation has become overwhelming.

Escorsa is one of many residents who believe tourism has become excessive, negatively impacting communities and exacerbating the housing crisis. This issue isn't unique to Spain; cities worldwide are grappling with overtourism and the rise of short-term rental platforms. However, the discontent is particularly evident in Barcelona, where protests are planned.

Similar demonstrations are scheduled in other Spanish cities, including Mallorca and Ibiza, as well as in Venice, Lisbon, and other southern European cities. This marks the first coordinated protest against tourism across the region.

A significant shift in public opinion is evident. A poll showed a dramatic increase in the number of Spaniards who consider housing a major national problem. Protests have been held in several cities, with demands for lower rents. Last year, a rally in Barcelona against tourism led to protestors targeting tourists with water pistols, and similar actions are anticipated.

Spain experienced a record number of international visitors in 2024, making it one of the most visited countries globally. Authorities are attempting to address public concerns, despite the tourism industry's significant contribution to the national economy.

Barcelona's actions include plans to eliminate all short-term rental licenses by 2028. The government has also approved regulations to allow apartment owners to restrict tourist rentals and measures to cap rents. Furthermore, the government has ordered Airbnb to remove numerous holiday rentals that violated local rules.

The Consumer Rights Minister emphasized that the tourism sector cannot undermine the constitutional rights of the Spanish people, including their right to housing and well-being. The Economy Minister acknowledged the need to address the negative consequences of mass tourism.

The short-term rental industry feels unfairly targeted. Airbnb's general director for Spain and Portugal argues that the overtourism problem has been developing for decades and that hotels remain the primary accommodation for tourists. He also points out the contradiction in Barcelona's mayor supporting airport expansion while simultaneously planning to eliminate tourist apartments.

However, these arguments haven't resonated with many residents. Escorsa, the Barcelona teacher, has stopped using Airbnb altogether, believing it contributes to the housing shortage.