MADRID — Last year, Spain saw an unprecedented influx of 94 million tourists, solidifying its reputation as one of the most visited countries globally, renowned for its stunning Mediterranean coastline, diverse landscapes, and ancient cities.

However, this surge in tourism has raised concerns among some locals about the phenomenon of “overtourism.” Issues such as overcrowding, excessive water consumption, and particularly the rising costs of housing have become significant topics of conversation. In response to these grievances, the Spanish government has begun to take action, particularly focusing on the housing dilemmas faced in major cities where both home buying and rental prices have escalated dramatically—something that has become increasingly important to voters.

In an effort to address these issues, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez recently unveiled a comprehensive 12-point strategy aimed at alleviating the housing crisis. This initiative emphasizes stricter regulations on short-term rental properties, which primarily cater to tourists; however, it does not signify a decline in the tourism sector, which contributes approximately 12% to Spain’s GDP.

So, for those planning a trip, here’s crucial information to consider:

Are there restrictions on tourism in Spain?

Currently, while Spain is not banning tourists, certain cities have begun regulating tourist rental properties. For instance, Málaga, a southern port city, has introduced a prohibition on new rental properties in specific neighborhoods where short-term rentals surpass 8% of residential availability. This measure, which started earlier this month, is set to be reviewed after three years.

Barcelona, another tourist hotspot, is executing a plan to phase out all of its licensed short-term rentals, totaling around 10,000 apartments, in an effort to ensure sufficient housing for its full-time residents. The city renowned for its beaches and iconic architecture had declared last year that it would cease the renewal of any tourism-related apartment licenses after they expire in 2028.

Can tourists still secure accommodations?

Absolutely. Travelers to Spain can easily find hotel rooms and short-term rental options available across the country, without any significant changes in that regard.

What’s driving these regulatory actions?

Spain is grappling with a growing crisis around housing affordability. Cities like Barcelona and Madrid are facing booming rent prices, with wages not keeping up, particularly impacting younger individuals. Housing costs are generally on the rise, especially in urban and coastal locales. The availability of short-term rentals is perceived to inflate rental prices, further complicating the situation for local residents.

What else should travelers keep in mind before organizing their trips?

Visitors who plan to rent vehicles or reserve hotel accommodations in Spain will now face increased administrative requirements due to a new law mandating that hotel operators and car rental services report personal data to the government for national security purposes. This new policy will require the collection of essential personal details—including passport numbers, addresses, and financial information—of travelers aged 14 and older.