Many tourists excited by their Spanish holidays were unpleasantly surprised this year when the locals took to the streets (more than once) to show their distaste towards tourists.
Let’s rewind a little.
There’s something about Spain that stays with you long after you’ve left. It stands to reason you’d want to visit once, twice, maybe a handful of times in your lifetime. Spain’s sun feels warmer, and there’s a romanticism about the way the afternoon rays hit a plaza just right. Everything seems relaxed in Spain. The rhythm of life just doesn’t feel rushed. What starts out as a sightseeing holiday soon morphs into wiling away the hours with relaxation, good food, and truly immersing yourself in the country.
And for years, tourists have been flocking to the country for these very reasons. Except this year, there’s a little more tension in the air and a little less room on the sidewalks.
Spain saw over 17 million visitors in just the first three months of 2025. That’s a big record to break! And it feels like the pressure’s been building in top go-to spots like Barcelona and Palma de Mallorca for a while. Now, it’s spilling into the streets again. The demonstrations aren’t exactly violent, but they’re visible. And if you’re a tourist on the receiving end, it’s likely quite uncomfortable.
Signs are taped to fences near beaches, warning that these aren’t just tourist attractions — people live here. Some protests have blocked access to popular areas, not to shame anyone but to make a point.
One thing that needs to be made clear is that Spain doesn’t hate visitors. The local residents are just trying to hold onto the shape of daily life. In some neighbourhoods, the bakeries are gone. The corner store sells beach towels now instead of bread. The rent has doubled, making it almost impossible for the average local to afford it, and no one who grew up there can afford to stay in the very areas they used to call home.
Do the Spanish want the tourists to go away and never return? Certainly not! They’re saying that they just want a little balance and breathing room. That’s the part that doesn’t always make headlines, but it matters.
What Does This Mean for Your Trip?
If you’re planning to visit Spain in the coming months, you’re not alone in wondering whether now is the right time. And the answer isn’t black and white.
Much depends on how — and where — you choose to travel.
Major tourism hubs like Barcelona and Palma are under the most strain. These cities see millions of visitors a year, many of whom stay in short-term rentals that contribute to housing shortages and community displacement. The tension you’re seeing is a direct response to that kind of pressure.
That said, if you approach your visit with awareness and respect, you can still experience Spain in a way that’s both meaningful for you and sustainable for the people who live there.
Travel Thoughtfully, Not Fearfully
You don’t need to cancel your plans. But it might be worth adjusting them.
Consider choosing a destination outside the usual tourist circuit. Cities like Logroño, León, or Cádiz offer history, culture, and incredible food — without the high-volume crowds or the same level of local frustration.
If you do visit one of the more popular areas, try to avoid staying in residential neighbourhoods where vacation rentals have already pushed locals out. Look for small, family-run hotels or official guesthouses that contribute to the local economy.
And if you can, travel outside of peak summer months. The difference between August and late September is more than just temperature. You’ll find fewer crowds, quieter streets, and a better chance at genuine connection.
Keep Your Trip Safe, Easy, and Low-Impact
When you’re trying to navigate a foreign country respectfully, a little preparedness goes a long way. That includes how you stay connected while abroad.
Rather than relying on public Wi-Fi or fumbling with physical SIM cards, many travellers now opt for a digital solution before they leave home. Setting up an eSIM plan for Spain allows you to have instant access to maps, translation tools, and transit apps the moment you land — without needing to search for a local shop or wait in airport queues.
It’s a small adjustment, but it can make your experience smoother and more self-sufficient — especially if you’re trying to avoid creating disruption in already strained communities.
A Shifting Tourism Culture
The rise of anti-tourism isn’t just a Spanish issue. Across Europe, cities that depend on tourism are also learning what happens when it grows too fast and too big.
Spain still welcomes visitors. But it’s asking, gently but firmly, that they come with more awareness than before — not to cancel their trips — but to reimagine them.
So if you’re still planning to go — go with care. Choose places that need support, not just the ones trending on social media. There’s still magic in the streets of Spain. You just might find it in a quieter corner than you expected.
