Why are tourists leaving Majorca?

Tourists are reducing visits to Majorca in 2025-2026 due to a combination of intense anti-tourism protests, soaring costs, and a general feeling of being unwelcome. Protesters argue that mass tourism has caused overcrowding, traffic, and high rent, leading to a hostile atmosphere for visitors, with many local restaurants and businesses suffering from the decline.

Why is the tourism decline in Majorca?

In Mallorca, the decline among foreign visitors was 5.3%. While these numbers show a drop in visitor arrivals, they suggest that the decrease was driven by a reduction in local and domestic tourism, with the Spanish market being one of the hardest-hit sectors.

Are Brits avoiding Majorca?

While the decline in visitation is not isolated to Brits, the loss of their custom is reportedly having the largest impact. Biel Moragues, representing one of Majorca's taxi associations, said: "British tourists are the most upset by the protests and have changed their holiday destination."

Why are people cancelling holidays to Majorca?

In recent weeks, hoteliers in Majorca, Spain, have blamed overtourism protesters for a slump in bookings. But one travel expert believes something else is to blame. Cost of living here with the price of holidays and the hassles at the airports Dont make it pleasant. Oh safety while at the resorts to it's all adds up.

Why is Spain telling tourists to go home?

Protestors said that the large number of visitors were the cause of price increases for goods across the city, as well as putting pressure on public services, and complained that wealth generated by tourism was not distributed and thus a cause of increased social inequality.

Why I'm Leaving Mallorca

Are tourists no longer welcome in Spain?

Is Spain banning tourists? No, not quite – but certain new rules and restrictions might impact your next trip to the country.

Why is Spain allowing so many immigrants?

The Spanish government wants to regularise more than one million migrants within three years. For Madrid, this is one of the keys to future prosperity, in a context of demographic decline. By 2027, more than one million undocumented immigrants could be granted legal status in Spain.

Is it safe to go to Majorca on holiday?

Mallorca, renowned as a tourist haven, is generally considered a secure location for living and vacationing. Despite its myriad attractions and activities, visitors must remain aware of potential hazards and exercise caution to ensure a safe and enjoyable stay on the island.

Are Brits cancelling holidays to Spain?

A new report has found that Brits are cancelling holidays to Spain and instead are planning to stay closer to home.

Are tourists unwelcome in Majorca?

Tourists have never been a popular group. They can be annoying, messy, and they don't always respect the local culture, but some places are now facing a much bigger consequence of mass-tourism than mild annoyance: actual housing shortages and stagnant wages are pushing residents out of their homes.

What Spanish town is paying Brits to move there?

The Spanish town paying Brits (and others) to move is Ponga, located in Asturias, offering around £2,600 (€3,000) for relocation and an extra £2,600 for each baby born there, provided you commit to living there for at least five years, as part of schemes to combat rural depopulation, alongside other regions like Extremadura offering grants for remote workers. 

What do Spanish think of British tourists?

“We call the British 'guiris' [an affectionate Spanish word for foreigners, comes from guirigay meaning festive chaos]. They're people who are out of place, disorientated, who come here looking for sunshine, food and the fiestas in Spain, who has no sense of the ridiculous,” says Luis.

Why are Germans not going to Majorca?

One of the main reasons is that Spain and particularly Mallorca are no longer offer the good value for money Germans once got. German tourists are opting for other cheaper destinations given the steep price rise here in the last few years.

Which is nicer, Ibiza or Mallorca?

Ibiza is better for a vibrant party scene, bohemian vibes, and stylish beach clubs, ideal for younger crowds or those seeking nightlife; Mallorca is better for a diverse, balanced holiday with stunning mountains, historic towns, family-friendly resorts, and a mix of relaxation and exploration, suiting families, hikers, and culture enthusiasts. Choose Ibiza for world-class DJs and boho-chic, Mallorca for historic charm, varied landscapes (Serra de Tramuntana), and broader appeal. 

Where to avoid Majorca?

Areas to avoid

If you're after something more relaxed, do stay away from Magaluf and Palma Nova as these places are where you'll find a lot of the 18-30's groups, along with English-style pubs, a big drinking culture and all-night parties. They are also jam-packed during the peak tourism months of July and August.

Can you still buy a holiday home in Spain after Brexit?

While there are several new rules for UK citizens wanting to spend more time in the country, there are no new Brexit-related restrictions on buying property in Spain. Leaving the EU just means that Brits now have the same rights as non-EU countries, like the US, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia.

Are people cancelling holidays to Majorca?

British tourists who regularly visit Majorca have begun to abandon the holiday island in favour of more welcoming destinations. This news comes as residents from a town on the island have admitted that they “scared tourists away” amid overtourism protests that have led to a steep decline in tourist numbers.

Why are so many Brits leaving Spain?

The UK's departure from the EU has brought about many challenges for British citizens living in Spain. The new residency rules, uncertainty around healthcare, tightening financial situations, and job market difficulties are just a few of the problems they face.

Is Majorca losing tourists?

Mallorca tourism officials are reporting a drop in visitor numbers this year following a series of overtourism protests on the popular Balearic island. According to the Majorca Daily Bulletin, industry representatives across the hotel, hospitality and transport sectors have reported a decrease in tourist footfall.

Is Spain on high alert today?

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.

How much money do asylum seekers get in Spain?

All asylum seekers hosted in the reception phase are given the amount of €56 per month per person (to cover personal out-of-pocket expenses), plus €22 per month for each minor in charge.

What is the 2 year rule in Spain?

The new regulation defines and broadens five forms of arraigo: Social arraigo – requires a minimum of 2 years' stay in Spain and a job offer or proof of financial means. Labour arraigo – for those who have worked at least 6 months and resided in Spain for 2 years.