European Residents Protest Mass Tourism, Citing Housing Crisis and Displacement

Protests against mass tourism took place in Spain and other European destinations on Sunday. Residents expressed concerns that the influx of summer visitors was driving up housing costs and displacing locals. Demonstrations occurred in cities like Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca, Venice, and Lisbon.

In Barcelona, some protesters used water guns to target tourists. One resident explained that the city was being overtaken by tourism and that the protests aimed to reclaim Barcelona for its residents. He noted that his rent had increased significantly due to the conversion of apartments into short-term rentals for tourists. He also observed the replacement of traditional businesses with those catering to tourists.

The protests were part of a coordinated effort by activists across southern Europe. Thousands gathered in Mallorca, while hundreds more demonstrated in other Spanish cities, Venice, and Lisbon. Protesters in Venice displayed banners calling for a halt to new hotel construction. In Barcelona, signs read "One more tourist, one less resident," and stickers were placed on hotels and hostels.

The protests also involved some tension, with one incident involving water guns and firecrackers at a hostel. Tourists, including some who were sprayed with water, generally reacted with amusement. The Balearic island of Mallorca is a popular destination for tourists, and housing costs have risen due to the short-term rental market.

The issue of mass tourism and short-term rentals is a global concern. In Spain, where a record number of international visitors were welcomed in 2024, there is a growing convergence of pro-housing and anti-tourism sentiments. Spanish authorities are attempting to address public concerns while balancing the economic importance of the tourism industry.

The Spanish government has taken action against short-term rental platforms, ordering the removal of numerous holiday rentals that violated local rules. Government officials have acknowledged the need to address the negative impacts of mass tourism. Barcelona's city hall has announced plans to eliminate all short-term rental licenses by 2028.

The short-term rental industry argues that it is being unfairly blamed for housing and tourism issues. However, many residents disagree. One teacher in Barcelona has stopped using short-term rentals altogether due to the impact on housing availability. Barcelona has also implemented a program to improve public school infrastructure, funded by a tax on tourists.

Some residents believe that the government should address these issues without relying on tourism revenue. They argue that tourists staying in short-term rentals are contributing to the changing character of the city and affecting the lives of its residents.