2024 was marked by a new record in the tourism sector in Spain, with the country receiving 94 million visitors. This sharp growth in tourism also had consequences. Anti-tourism protests and demonstrations marked the year, prompting the government and regional authorities to review some practices.

Several measures are now being introduced to mitigate the impact of tourism on local populations and protect natural resources and heritage.

Rules vary

The new rules are not uniform throughout Spanish territory. Some have national application, while others are specific to certain regions or cities. With some of these measures involving huge fines, authorities advise visitors to inform themselves in advance about the obligations in force.

As far as tourist entry is concerned, European Union (EU) citizens continue to benefit from a simple process, simply by presenting a passport or identity card. However, visitors from third countries such as the UK, Canada or the US now face stricter border controls.

Mandatory travel insurance

Euronews writes that it is now mandatory for tourists from outside the EU to present travel insurance. In addition, you will need to prove that you have sufficient funds for your stay, have a hotel reservation and present a return ticket. In case of self-hosting, proof of address will be required.

Tourist taxes are also expanding. Since 2012, Catalonia has applied an ecotax, and this year the rate doubled in Barcelona for luxury hotels, rising from 3.50 to seven euros per night. Guests staying in four-star hotels will pay 3.40 euros, while cruise passengers will pay six euros, even if they only stay for one day.

Barcelona has also introduced a four-euro municipal surcharge, which could double by the end of this year. Total taxes for tourists in luxury accommodation can therefore reach 15 euros per night, including VAT. In the Balearic Islands, nightly rates increase from four to six euros in high season, depending on the hotel category.

The same publication mentions that the Canary Islands could follow the same path. The town of Mogán, in Gran Canaria, has been applying a daily rate of 0.15 euros since January. Other cities, such as Santiago de Compostela and Toledo, are preparing to implement fees of between 1 and 2.50 euros per night.

Restrictions

Some regions have even adopted measures against behaviour considered inappropriate. From June, pub crawls are banned in the Eixample district of Barcelona. The ban has been in place in the historic centre since 2012 and is expected to remain in place until at least 2028.

In the Balearic Islands, alcohol consumption in public spaces has been restricted in tourist areas of Mallorca and Ibiza. Stores are prohibited from selling alcoholic beverages between 9:30 pm and 8 am. Failure to comply with these rules can result in fines of between 750 and 3,000 euros, depending on the severity of the offence.

Historic centres

Other measures target mobility. In Sóller, Mallorca, tourists are prohibited from driving in the historic centre, with reserved parking areas on the outskirts. In Torrox, on the Costa del Sol, tents and similar structures have been banned from beaches for safety reasons and for the visibility of lifeguards.

Spanish beaches are also subject to anti-smoking rules. More than 100 beaches have already banned smoking, including 28 in the Balearic Islands and dozens in other regions such as Andalusia, the Canary Islands and the Costa Blanca. In addition to tobacco, the use of e-cigarettes has also been restricted in several bathing areas.

Additional measures

Finally, Malaga could follow Vigo's example and fine anyone who urinates in the sea or on the beach. The proposal provides for fines that could reach 750 euros. Bans on other practices are also being analysed, such as allowing dogs into the water, playing with balls or reserving space with umbrellas.

Spanish authorities recommend that visitors check with their accommodation or travel agency about current local rules. Most tax obligations fall on establishments, but compliance with behavioural standards is the responsibility of tourists.