Spanish Tourism Under Siege as Protests Erupt in Barcelona and Mallorca

Barcelona and Mallorca have become epicenters of anti-tourism protests, as residents express growing frustration over the negative impacts of mass tourism on local communities. Demonstrators in Barcelona recently targeted tourists with water guns, highlighting the rising tensions and calls for regulatory changes to curb the adverse effects of the tourism industry.

Barcelona, one of Europe’s top tourist destinations, is witnessing a surge in anti-tourism protests as locals voice their dissatisfaction with the overwhelming influx of visitors. The Catalan capital, which hosted over 12 million tourists in 2023, recently saw approximately 2,800 protesters march through its streets. These demonstrators expressed their frustration by spraying tourists with water guns and taping up hotel exits, preventing guests from leaving.

The protest, organized by the Neighbourhood Assembly for Tourism Degrowth (ABDT), is part of a broader movement highlighting the detrimental effects of mass tourism on local communities. Banners with slogans such as “Tourists, go home!” and “Barcelona is not for sale” were prominent, reflecting the escalating tensions between residents and the burgeoning number of visitors.

A significant driver of these protests is the skyrocketing cost of housing in Barcelona. According to the property website Idealista, rental prices have surged by 18% in the past year alone, with a staggering 68% increase over the last decade. The proliferation of tourist apartments has exacerbated the housing crisis, making the city increasingly unaffordable for many residents. In response, Barcelona’s Mayor Jaume Collboni announced a ban on more than 10,000 tourist apartment rentals by 2028, a move aimed at alleviating the housing shortage. This decision follows similar measures implemented by former Mayor Ada Colau in 2017.

The ABDT has proposed 13 measures to mitigate tourism’s negative impacts, including reducing tourist accommodations, protecting local commerce, and improving conditions for tourism sector workers. These proposals reflect a growing desire among residents for sustainable tourism practices that prioritize the well-being of the local community.

The unrest in Barcelona is part of a larger trend of anti-tourism sentiment across Spain. In Mallorca, protests are planned for later this month, organized by the Menys Turisme, Més Vida (Less Tourism, More Life) platform. Similar demonstrations have occurred in the Canary Islands, Palma de Mallorca, and Malaga, indicating widespread discontent with the current state of the tourism industry.

As Spain grapples with these issues, the need for regulatory changes and sustainable tourism practices becomes increasingly evident. Balancing the economic benefits of tourism with the quality of life for residents remains a critical challenge for cities like Barcelona and Mallorca.