Monday, January 27, 2025 Malaga, Velez-Malaga, Alicante, Madrid, and Seville implement bold tourism reforms in 2025 to curb overcrowding, protect resources, and promote sustainability. Spain is rolling out a range of tourism restrictions this year in response to rising anti-tourism sentiment that swept through Europe last summer. In popular destinations, particularly those favored by UK travelers, residents have raised concerns over the strain of unregulated mass tourism on natural resources and the local housing market.
In Malaga, the capital of Costa del Sol, authorities have introduced measures to regulate tourism and safeguard historic areas. Effective January 14, the city has suspended the registration of holiday rentals in 43 districts, focusing on properties rented out to tourists. The initiative seeks to limit the number of short-term rental units in densely populated neighborhoods, where such accommodations account for over 8% of residential buildings.
The suspension is expected to last three years, with the possibility of an extension. Malaga’s efforts mirror similar actions in cities like Alicante and Madrid, while other locations, including Seville, are considering following suit. Malaga is also pioneering a new housing model with the approval of a senior cohousing project.
The town hall recently issued the first license for the construction of this alternative living arrangement in Velez-Malaga, designed to cater to the needs of older residents. Beyond housing,.
