Barcelona has announced new measures to tackle overtourism, including a significant increase in the tourist tax and a cap on cruise ship passengers. The city plans to raise the tourist tax from €4 to €7 per night for most visitors, effective in 2026, according to local government statements. Additionally, the port of Barcelona will limit the number of cruise passengers to 200,000 per year, down from the current levels, to reduce congestion in the city center.
These steps come after years of protests by residents against the negative impacts of mass tourism, such as rising housing costs and overcrowding. The measures are part of a broader strategy to promote sustainable tourism and improve quality of life for locals. The city also aims to regulate short-term rentals more strictly, with plans to revoke licenses for thousands of unregistered apartments.
Meanwhile, Bali is considering similar actions to address its own overtourism challenges. The Indonesian island has seen a surge in visitors, leading to environmental degradation and cultural strain. Local authorities have proposed a tourist tax of $10 to $15 per person, as well as limits on the number of foreign visitors, though no final decisions have been made as of May 2026. Bali's governor has expressed interest in learning from Barcelona's approach.
Both destinations face the challenge of balancing economic benefits from tourism with the need to protect local communities and environments. Experts suggest that coordinated efforts, including better infrastructure and visitor management, are essential for long-term sustainability.
