Booking Platform Cracks Down on Illegal Spanish Holiday Rentals

A major holiday booking platform has taken action against numerous illegal holiday rentals in popular Spanish tourist destinations. Following pressure from Spanish authorities, the platform removed 4,000 listings that violated regulations. The majority of these illegal rentals were located in the Canary Islands.

The Canary Islands, situated southwest of mainland Spain, are among the European regions experiencing significant challenges due to a surge in international visitors. This follows a record-breaking number of foreign arrivals in March 2025. Spain's Ministry of Consumer Affairs increased pressure on online platforms to address the issue of illegal holiday lets after public protests earlier in the month. These protests highlighted concerns about the impact of tourism on the housing market.

The 4,093 listings removed by the rental provider lacked valid registration or license numbers, or failed to confirm whether the property was managed by an individual or a company. Under Spanish law, providing this information is mandatory for short-term rentals. Officials hope that cooperation with booking companies will help alleviate the rental crisis, where residents are being priced out of the housing market.

Spain's Minister for Consumer Affairs, Pablo Bustinduy, described the clampdown as a positive step towards addressing housing shortages in popular holiday resorts. He emphasized that unregulated activity puts pressure on the local housing market and reduces the availability of affordable homes for residents. Besides the Canary Islands, unlawful listings were also removed from various regions across the country.

This action follows a High Court request for another short-term let provider to remove over 65,000 listings in Spain that did not meet legal requirements. Mr. Bustinduy noted a direct correlation between the rise in short-term lets and increasing rental and housing costs. While acknowledging the importance of tourism to the Spanish economy, he stressed the need for sustainable practices that do not compromise the rights of Spanish citizens, including their right to housing and well-being.