A city in Spain introduced a two-year ban on renting accommodation to tourists
Alicante, one of the most popular destinations for tourists in Spain, has introduced a two-year ban on renting new properties to tourists. The regulation is aimed at curbing overtourism and addressing local problems, and marks a significant moment in Spain’s ongoing struggle to balance its thriving tourism industry.
Alicante is a city and popular tourist destination in the southeast of Spain, located in the autonomous community of Valencia. It is known for its beautiful coast, which is part of a wider region known as the Costa Blanca. Its sunny climate, rich history and cultural charm have made it a popular destination, but the increasing influx of visitors has brought major challenges.
The challenges relate primarily to the rise in real estate prices, pressure on the environment and disruption in local communities, which caused alarm among residents and officials. One of the ways to fight against mass tourism refers to the ban on issuing new accommodation to tourists for two years.
Alicante, Spain
Learning from other Spanish cities
Alicante is not the first Spanish city to struggle with over-tourism. Barcelona, another major tourist destination, has already announced plans to ban short-term rentals from November 2028. The proactive measures adopted by Alicante and Barcelona set an example for other regions in Spain facing similar challenges.
This strategy highlights Alicante’s commitment to sustainable tourism. By addressing the problem of over-tourism and ensuring rental practices align with community interests, the city aims to create a model that promotes both economic growth and quality of life for residents.
Impact on local tourism
Alicante’s tourism industry has long been a key driver of the local economy. The city’s vibrant mix of modern amenities and historic charm attracts millions of visitors annually. However, the emergence of irregular short-term rentals has disrupted local real estate markets and strained infrastructure. The two-year ban provides an opportunity to re-calibrate and develop a framework that benefits both tourists and residents.
The move sparked debate about the wider implications for Spain’s tourism industry. With other popular regions, including Ibiza and Mallorca, also exploring measures to control holiday rentals, Alicante’s initiative could pave the way for reforms at a national level.
Source: BIZLife/TU Magazine
Photo: Unsplash
Source: bizlife.rs
