No, Spain is not banning tourists. Here’s what you need to know before planning your trip

MADRID (AP) — Spain attracted a record 94 million tourists last year, making the southern European nation known for its Mediterranean coastline, vast landscapes and historic cities one of the most visited countries on Earth.

The surge in tourists has sometimes prompted complaints of “overtourism” from some Spaniards, who worry about overcrowding, water use and, especially, the availability and affordability of housing.

The Spanish government has begun to heed calls for greater regulation, particularly in housing in Spain’s largest cities, where rising house prices and rents have become a major concern for voters. Earlier this month, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez proposed a 12-part plan to tackle the housing crisis, with measures aimed at imposing tighter regulations on short-term rentals that mainly cater to tourists.

But this does not mean that Spain is putting the brakes on tourism, which accounts for about 12% of its GDP.

Before planning your visit, you should know the following:

Does Spain restrict tourists?

No, but some cities have begun to regulate tourist rental properties.

Malaga, an Andalusian port city on Spain’s southern Mediterranean coast, will ban new rental properties in 43 neighborhoods in the city where rents exceed 8% of the residential stock. The policy came into effect earlier this month and will be piloted for three years.

Meanwhile, Barcelona plans to close all 10,000 short-term rental apartments in the coming years to ensure housing supply for full-time residents. The Mediterranean city known for its beaches, art and surrealist architecture announced last year that it would not renew any new tourist apartment licenses after they expire in 2028.

Can tourists still book hotels and other accommodations?

Yes. Visitors can book hotel accommodation and short-term apartment rentals anywhere in Spain.

What prompted Spain to take these measures?

Spain is facing a growing housing affordability problem. The rent surge has been particularly severe in cities such as Barcelona and Madrid, where incomes, especially among young people, have failed to keep up. House prices are also rising steadily, especially in urban and coastal areas.

Short-term contracts, mainly for tourists, are also thought to be driving up rental costs for locals.

What else should travelers know before booking a trip?

Tourists renting cars or booking hotel stays in Spain must also submit more documentation due to a new law requiring hotel owners and car rental companies to send personal messages to the government for national security reasons.

Details such as passport details, home address and payment details will be collected from travelers over 14 years of age.