Barcelona residents have voiced growing frustration over the city’s overcrowded tourism sector, citing the strain on housing and public services.
In May, the mayor announced a proposal to raise the cruise passenger tax to 9.30 euros per night, effectively doubling the current rate of 4.65 euros.
The city’s tourism officials set a 2025 visitor cap of 15.7 million, with a hard limit of 16 million to prevent further crowding.
From April 1, the hotel guest tax will also increase, moving from a range of 5 to 9 euros to 10 to 17 euros per person per night.
Last summer, large crowds of residents marched through the streets, some using water guns to spray visitors while displaying signs that read “One more tourist, one less resident” and “Tourist go home.”
Participants argue that the city has become dominated by short‑term rentals, pushing out local residents and disrupting the neighborhood economy.
A local tenant noted that rent had risen more than 30 percent, and that many apartments in his area are now occupied by short‑term vacation rentals.
The mayor maintains that the new policies aim to attract business travelers and cultural tourists rather than to discourage tourism entirely.
He added that ensuring residents can purchase everyday items in their own neighborhoods is a priority for the city’s future development.
City officials say the goal is to balance the needs of visitors and residents, preserving Barcelona’s quality of life while maintaining its appeal as a global destination.
