Is Spain trying to get rid of tourists?

Beginning in April 2024, there have been protests in Spain against overtourism, specifically in the archipelagos of the Balearics and Canaries, and in the mainland cities of Barcelona and Málaga. These first three locations are the top three most-visited in Spain by tourists.

Is Spain protesting against tourists?

On June 15 crowds across Spanish tourist hotspots protested against mass tourism. There was shouting, flares, and the water pistols that have become a symbol of 'tourismphobia'. As protests in Spain have ramped up, the number of tourists visiting has dropped.

Are tourists no longer welcome in Spain?

Is Spain banning tourists? No, this is another rumour we debunked. The truth is that several areas of Spain have announced bans on short-term holiday rentals, but this doesn't include a 'tourist ban'. There have been anti-tourism protests from residents across popular tourist destinations in Spain.

Why is Spain limiting tourists?

These restrictions come after new rules were introduced in places like Malaga and Majorca last year that aim to put a stop to disrespectful tourist behaviour. Seville also introduced rules to prohibit 'obscene' behaviour in 2023.

Are tourists staying away from Spain?

The popular destination in Spain has been described as "empty" in recent weeks, with many Brits staying away from the hotspot. Scenes emerged online showing the resort's "deserted" streets. For years, Spain has been a favourite holiday spot for Brits, but it seems the tide might be turning.

10 UNSPOKEN RULES Tourists Keep Breaking in Spain

Is Spain ok for UK tourists?

You can travel without a visa to the Schengen area, which includes Spain, for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.

Is it safe to go to Spain just now?

The Spanish government maintains a public alert system on terrorism and communicates threat level changes online and through local media. The current threat level for Spain is level 4 (“high”) on a scale of 5.

What are the new rules in Spain for tourists?

New for 2025, Spain is now requiring proof of travel insurance at the border for non-EU visitors. You should have a return or onward travel ticket in hand too, as you may be asked to show this. You also need to show you have enough funds to cover the length of your stay in Spain, and proof of your hotel booking.

Why is Spain limiting all-inclusive drinks?

Spain has introduced new regulations limiting the consumption of alcohol at certain all-inclusive resorts in the Balearic Islands, particularly targeting areas known for excessive drunk and disorderly behaviour.

Is tourism falling in Spain?

For the first time since the pandemic, and following years of anti-tourist protests by locals, parts of the country are experiencing a downturn in visitor numbers.

Are less Brits going to Spain?

The popular European holiday destination has seen a significant decline in the number of tourists following a string of local protests over recent summers, which have led Brits to look for other places to spend their holidays.

When to not visit Spain?

Conclusion. To enjoy Spain to the fullest, avoid visiting in August due to excessive heat and high prices, and steer clear of rainy months in the north. Instead, opt for spring or fall for a perfect balance of good weather, fewer crowds, and reasonable prices.

Can Brits still go and live in Spain?

Yes, you can retire and move to Spain from the UK, but you will need to apply for a specific residency permit as a non-EU citizen. The main options include: Non-Lucrative Visa: Ideal for retirees, this visa allows you to live in Spain without working.

Is Spain taking in immigrants?

The Spanish economic transformation is unfolding as the center-left government of Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has streamlined immigration rules while offering legal status to roughly 700,000 irregular migrants since 2021.

Is Portugal protesting against tourists?

Protestors also gathered in Portugal's capital of Lisbon and across Italian cities like Milan and Venice. Some held signs with messages such as "Lisbon against touristification" and "As you come, I have to go." A woman raises a placard in front of tourists seated at a bar, in Palma de Mallorca, Spain, June 15, 2025.

Does Spain rely on tourists?

With a population of 48 million – half the number of foreign visitors each year – Spain relies heavily on tourism, which contributes more than 13% of GDP.

Does the 6 drink rule apply in Tenerife?

The six drinks rule applies in Spain only in the Balearic Islands, but not across all the archipelago, only in certain resorts known for this type of drunken tourism: on the island of Mallorca in El Arenal in Playa de Palma and in Magaluf and also on the island of Ibiza in Sant Antoni.

Which Spanish resorts are restricting all-inclusive?

Can 16 year olds drink with parents in Spain?

Can you drink at 16 in Spain with parents? No, people under 18 years old shouldn't drink. Of course, you will find that some parents will allow drinking as long as they can supervise and alcohol is consumed in low quantities.

Is it okay to visit Spain now?

There's an ongoing threat of terrorism in Spain. The national terrorism alert level for Spain is 'high'. Attacks could be indiscriminate and could occur anywhere, at any time and without warning. Take official warnings seriously and follow the advice of local authorities.

What changes in Spain in June 2025?

Royal Decree-law 7/2025, of June 24, 2025 approved following the “blackout” on April 28, includes major new legislation directly affecting the electricity system, in particular the development of renewable energy plants and storage facilities.

Does Benidorm charge tourist taxes?

Currently, Majorca, Menorca, Ibiza, Formentera and some parts of Catalonia (including Barcelona) charge a tourist tax. Valencia (which includes Benidorm) was due to launch its tourist tax in December 2023 but it has been scrapped for now.

Are Brits welcome in Spain?

Spanish tourism officials say Britons are still welcome in Spain this summer - they just need to discover the country's 'still unknown' destinations, including a beautiful island that gets just a few hundred visitors a year.

Which countries are advised not to travel to?

Is Benidorm safe?

As in any touristic city in the world, muggings may take place in Benidorm, so it is important to be warned and be aware of the different tools the holidaymaker has in hand to avoid muggings or proceed accordingly if they experience one. Most tourists have been coming to Benidorm for decades and have never been mugged.