Can we still go on holiday to Spain?

Anyone who knows me a little knows that I absolutely love Spain. I visit the country at least once or twice a year. But the Spanish government is tightening the reins. Since the end of 2024, tourists must leave identification details at hotels, car rentals, and campsites. And now the Spanish government is forcing Airbnb to remove no less than 66,000 listings from its platform. Will we still be able to go to Spain soon?

Spain: sun, sangria, and… housing crisis?

When we think of Spain, you might think of Andalusia, Seville, beach days in Mallorca, or partying in Ibiza. But this wonderful country has a shadow side besides the sun: a huge housing crisis. Affordable rental homes have become rare, especially in popular cities. And tourism – or rather: the out-of-control vacation rentals via platforms like Airbnb – plays a major role in this.

66,000 fewer Airbnb listings: the big Spanish cleanup

The Spanish government has swept through Airbnb. No less than 66,000 listings have been removed. Most of these apartments did not comply with local legislation and only exacerbated the housing crisis. This is the strictest action against tourist rentals ever in Spain. And to be honest? It was probably about time.

Barcelona: from dream city to ghost neighborhood

People from Barcelona are so happy with this development. There are really enough hotels. But what is lacking are affordable homes for ordinary people. Neighborhoods where children used to play and the elderly sat on a bench have turned into Airbnb neighborhoods where rolling suitcases thunder over the tiles early in the morning. Housing is a basic right. Not a business model for real estate cowboys.

And Barcelona is taking another step.

Barcelona takes next step: tourist tax doubles

As if the Airbnb cleanup wasn't enough, Barcelona is now coming up with a new reality check for city travelers. Starting in April 2026, the tourist tax per night will simply double. In other words: hotel guests will soon pay between 10 and 15 euros per night, and staying in vacation homes will also become significantly more expensive.

Barcelona expects to raise around 200 million euros per year with this, money that should help tackle the housing crisis. The rates will also increase in the rest of Catalonia. The message? Barcelona does not want to stop tourism, but wants to regulate it.

So, after years of protests from residents and the decision to completely ban tourist rentals by 2028, this measure feels like the next step in a clear direction: less mass, more balance.

Why this could (and should) become a trend

The Spanish Minister of Consumer Affairs put it sharply: ”No economic interest should be more important than the right to housing.” And let's be honest: this applies not only to Spain. Cities like Lisbon, Paris, Amsterdam, and even Berlin are facing the same problem. A quote from a Dutch reader puts it aptly:

“This should apply to all countries dealing with a housing crisis”

The future of your vacation: hotel or hostel?

Okay, does this mean we can no longer book a city trip to Barcelona & Valencia? Certainly not. But do expect fewer cheap Airbnb options. Choose a legally registered apartment or go old school with a hotel. There are plenty of those.

This is what people think about it

“I come from Barcelona and I am soooo happy that the government is finally doing something about those tourist apartments. There are really enough hotels. Let people live where they were born, for heaven's sake.” – Lucía, 34

“This should apply to all countries dealing with a housing crisis.” – Anne, Amsterdam

“Of course it's annoying that we can no longer sleep in that cozy Airbnb, but to be honest: it got out of hand. Those cities are not just backdrops for tourists; there are real people living there.” – Tom, regular vacationer in Spain

“I rented out my apartment via Airbnb. It was nice to earn some money, yes. But when I hear that my downstairs neighbor had to move because her house was sold to an investor, well... I do get a bad taste from that.” – Mark, Málaga

“This is why I love Europe! The residents come first. Every thought is about meeting their livelihood.” – Sophie, Rotterdam

Is this really the end of Airbnb in Spain?

Probably not. But it will change. Stricter rules, more control, and hopefully also: more balance. Tourists are welcome, but without taking over the city. And to be honest, I really agree with that.