A renewed debate has flared up in Barcelona over the future of tourist apartments. Hotel industry representatives are opposing the city hall’s plans to completely ban short-term apartment rentals by 2028. They argue that such measures could lead to a shortage of accommodation for visitors, since there are already not enough hotels to handle the current influx of tourists.
Hoteliers are particularly focused on buildings where all apartments are used exclusively for short-term rentals. There are 46 such properties in the city, comprising over 700 apartments. Industry representatives believe these buildings should be exempt from the ban. They argue that these properties do not affect the long-term rental market and do not contribute to the housing crisis.
Meanwhile, city authorities hold a different view. According to their estimates, only 15% of all tourist apartments are concentrated in separate buildings, most of which are located in the Eixample district. The majority of apartments are scattered across the city, which officials believe negatively affects housing availability for locals. Authorities are convinced that returning 10,000 apartments to the long-term rental market will help partially solve the housing shortage.
Tourism economy and new taxes
Tourism remains a key industry for Barcelona: last year, the city welcomed over 15 million visitors. The sector provides a significant share of revenue and jobs. However, growing discontent among locals over overtourism is forcing authorities to seek a balance between business interests and those of residents.
One of the tools for regulation will be an increase in tourist taxes. Starting in 2028, the accommodation tax for apartments and hotels will be doubled, with an additional charge depending on the type of lodging. As a result, an overnight stay could cost a tourist up to 15 euros. Hoteliers fear these measures could make the city less attractive for major events and business meetings.
The Future of Tourism and Infrastructure
During the discussions, the need to expand El Prat Airport was also raised, to cope with the growing influx of visitors. Business representatives and authorities agreed that developing infrastructure and properly distributing tourist flows throughout the city would help reduce pressure on central areas and make guests’ stays more comfortable.
Overall, the fate of tourist apartments in Barcelona remains a hotly debated issue. Complex negotiations lie ahead between city hall, businesses, and residents that will determine what the city’s tourism market will look like in the coming years.
