Barcelona Cracks Down on Holiday Rentals to Address Housing Crisis

In an effort to combat overtourism and address a growing housing crisis, Barcelona has implemented a ban on new licenses for short-term tourist apartments. The policy is focused on areas like Ciutat Vella, where high concentrations of holiday rentals have disrupted local communities.

While existing rentals will remain operational under current licenses, the city is actively reducing their numbers. Initiatives include purchasing tourist apartments and converting them into social housing. This move aligns with a broader European trend of regulating short-term rentals to balance tourism with residents’ quality of life.

Critics argue the ban could impact Barcelona’s tourism-dependent economy, but local leaders prioritize addressing the rising cost of living and preserving cultural identity. This decisive action underscores a growing global debate over the impact of platforms like Airbnb on urban housing markets .