Spain’s Airbnb Crackdown: What It Means for Travellers (And How to Book Smarter)
- Milli Oosting
- Jun 3
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 3
Spain has always been a dream destination—with golden coastlines, Moorish architecture, mountain villages, and food that turns every day into a celebration. But if you’re planning to travel there in 2025 (or beyond), there’s something important to consider: a major shift in how short-term rentals are regulated.
The Spanish government is taking real steps to address housing shortages and overtourism. That means thousands of unlicensed Airbnb listings are being banned, particularly in high-demand regions like Barcelona, Madrid, the Canary Islands, Valencia, and the Balearic Islands.
As dreamy as it sounds to snag a last-minute city loft or coastal villa, many travellers have found themselves without accommodation due to sudden delistings or government enforcement.
So how do you still enjoy Spain without getting caught in this wave of changes?
Why This Matters for You
You might arrive to find your booking cancelled—or worse, face fines or local hostility.
Some properties are being delisted even after they’ve been booked.
Entire cities (like Barcelona) are phasing out short-term rentals altogether by 2028.
This is all part of a bigger movement to protect housing for locals and regain control over overtourism—a cause we stand behind at Dérive and Seek.
How to Travel Smarter in Spain Now
Here’s how you can stay ahead and still enjoy your trip with ease, purpose, and peace of mind.
Consider Alternative Stays
Boutique hotels or guesthouses that are locally owned
Agroturismos (farm stays) in rural areas
Paradores—historic government-run properties, often castles or monasteries
Home exchanges or verified platforms like Fairbnb (which gives back to the community)
Avoid Tourist-Saturated Areas (and Find Gems Elsewhere)
Instead of central Barcelona or Madrid, look to:
Girona or Tarragona (Catalonia)
Jerez or Cádiz (Andalusia)
Lanzarote’s rural north or La Palma (Canary Islands)
These lesser-trodden paths still offer culture, food, and beauty—without the stress.
Accommodation Checklist for Spain (2025+)
Before you book, run through this:
🔲 Is it licensed?
Check for a visible registration or tourism license number on the listing. No number? Avoid it.
🔲 Is it still available on the day of arrival?
Some platforms cancel even after confirmation. Use reliable hosts with a history of reviews.
🔲 Is the platform accountable?
Airbnb and Booking.com may host illegal listings. Consider local or ethical booking sites.
🔲 Does it contribute to the local economy?
Opt for accommodations that are owned by locals or support sustainability efforts.
🔲 Can I cancel easily?
Flexible bookings give peace of mind in case rules change again.
🔲 Am I staying in a place that welcomes travellers?
Choose communities that have sustainable tourism plans in place—don’t force your presence where locals are already protesting overtourism.
Travel, Intentionally
At Dérive and Seek, we believe every journey should connect you more deeply—to place, people, and purpose.
This moment in Spain is a chance to travel more mindfully, choosing accommodation that supports the spirit of where you are—not just the scenery.
Ready to Explore?
Download our Seek & Stay Checklist to keep on hand when planning your Spanish adventure.
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