Spain welcomed a record-breaking 94 million tourists last year, cementing its position as a top global destination. The influx of visitors, drawn to the country's Mediterranean beaches, diverse landscapes, and rich history, has contributed significantly to the Spanish economy, with tourism accounting for approximately 12 per cent of GDP. However, this surge in popularity has sparked concerns among residents, particularly regarding "overtourism.
" Overcrowding, strained resources like water, and the increasing scarcity and cost of housing have become pressing issues, especially in major cities. These concerns have not gone unnoticed by the Spanish government. Responding to public pressure for greater regulation, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez recently unveiled a 12-point plan to address the housing crisis.
The plan includes measures aimed at tightening regulations on short-term rentals, which are predominantly used by tourists. Despite these challenges, Spain remains committed to its vital tourism sector, seeking to balance economic benefits with the needs of its citizens. Here's what you should know before planning a visit: No, but some cities have started to regulate tourism rental properties.
Malaga , an Andalusian port city on the southern Mediterranean coast of Spain, will prohibit new rental properties in 43 neighborhoods of the city where those rentals exceed 8 per cent of the residential stock. The policy went into effect earlier this month and will be tested for three .