Barcelona, Spain’s largest tourist city, has recently decided to double its tourist tax, making it one of the highest in Europe. Currently set at a maximum of 7.5 euros, the tax will increase to 15 euros per night for guests staying in vacation accommodations. This legislative change was approved by the Catalonia regional parliament, reflecting the growing turmoil over overtourism as local residents express concerns about skyrocketing housing prices due to an influx of tourists. Notably, the increase in tax is intended to address some of the financial burdens experienced by local authorities regarding housing issues.

With an estimated 15.8 million tourists visiting Barcelona annually, the hotel industry is apprehensive about the potential decline in visitors prompted by the tax hike. The tax agency will collect a substantial amount from the tourism sector, wherein one-fourth will be allocated specifically to resolving the city’s housing problems caused by the overwhelming visitor influx. Manel Casals, president of the Barcelona Hotel Management Association, has raised alarms over the tax, claiming that ignoring proposals for a more gradual increase amounts to a suicidal business move, suggesting that the city risks damaging its lucrative tourism industry.

In relation to combating the detrimental effects of overtourism, the regional government had previously taken measures, such as planning to ban short-term rentals through platforms like Airbnb starting November 2028. This structured approach aims to balance the city's relationship with tourism while improving living conditions for residents. With rising housing demands due to tourism, the new tourist tax and regulations signify Barcelona’s attempt to navigate the complexities of managing a popular tourist destination amidst significant local pushback.