Barcelona Locals Protest Mass Tourism, Housing Crisis Intensifies

Barcelona residents flooded the streets over the weekend to protest the city’s ongoing struggle with mass tourism and its impact on housing affordability. Demonstrators marched through popular tourist areas armed with water pistols and signs like “Your Airbnb used to be my home,” demanding urgent reforms to curb rising rents and local displacement.

With over 15 million visitors in 2023—nearly ten times Barcelona’s population—the city’s global popularity is fueling a crisis for residents. Many locals, especially younger generations, are being priced out of their neighborhoods due to the rise in short-term tourist rentals and expat-driven demand. “We cannot live in this city,” said Marina, one of the protest organizers. “The rents are super high because of Airbnbs and expats who come here for the weather.”

In response, city officials announced that Barcelona will ban short-term tourist rentals by 2028, revoking 10,000 licenses. It’s one of the most aggressive anti-tourism housing policies in Europe and aims to address the deepening housing crisis. However, some property owners argue the blame is misplaced. “They stopped issuing new licenses a decade ago, but rents kept rising,” said local landlord Jesus Pereda. “We’re just an easy enemy.”

Tourists visiting Barcelona this summer should expect further demonstrations as similar anti-tourism protests spread across Spain, Portugal, and Italy. Sunday’s protest ended with firecrackers and red smoke near the Sagrada Familia, where police prevented access to the site. Travelers are encouraged to practice responsible tourism and respect local concerns while visiting iconic destinations.