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Spain’s Tourism Faces A Major Downturn As Tourists Flee Popular Destinations Like Benidorm And Barcelona, Following Rising Hostility From Locals
Published on
September 21, 2025
Spain is currently grappling with an unprecedented tourism crisis as its iconic holiday destinations, including Barcelona, Benidorm, and parts of Majorca, experience a sharp decline in visitors. This downturn has been driven by growing anti-tourism sentiments, with locals increasingly expressing hostility toward tourists, even going so far as to label them “cancerous” and claiming that they have “ruined life.” What were once vibrant, bustling cities are now eerily quiet, with empty streets, deserted beaches, and an overall atmosphere of unease settling over the travel industry. As these anti-tourism attitudes rise, many travelers are reconsidering their plans, opting for alternative destinations in response to the hostile environment unfolding in Spain’s most popular tourist hotspots.
Tourism in Spain, particularly in its popular tourist hotspots such as Barcelona, Benidorm, and parts of Majorca in the Balearic Islands, has experienced a noticeable decline. The once-thriving areas, known for their vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and welcoming atmosphere, are now facing a growing number of anti-tourism sentiments. In recent months, travelers have reported unsettling experiences, raising questions about the future of tourism in these beloved destinations.
Barcelona, long considered a jewel of Mediterranean tourism, is one of the cities experiencing a marked drop in visitor numbers. While the city’s famous landmarks, like the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, continue to attract tourists, the overall atmosphere has changed. The bustling streets and lively plazas that once greeted visitors with open arms now echo with the grievances of locals who feel overwhelmed by the increasing number of tourists. Anti-tourism sentiments have begun to manifest in more overt and hostile forms, as some residents openly express their frustrations with mass tourism. Tourists have been subjected to verbal abuse, with some being called “cancerous” and others told that they have “ruined life.” The growing resentment has led to instances where tourists have been sprayed with water pistols or shouted at to “go home.” The beach, which was once teeming with people from all corners of the globe, is notably quieter this year, and many are left wondering whether these anti-tourism sentiments will continue to grow or subside.
In Benidorm, one of the most famous coastal destinations on the Costa Blanca, the scene is equally concerning. Known for its lively nightlife, sandy beaches, and an array of hotels, Benidorm has been a magnet for both domestic and international tourists. However, a recent surge of complaints has cast doubt on the area’s future as a popular tourist destination. Visitors have claimed that Benidorm, once known for its bustling atmosphere, now feels like a “ghost town.” Streets that were once packed with people, restaurants, and beachgoers now seem quieter than ever, with many businesses reportedly closing their doors earlier than in previous years. A recent visitor to Benidorm expressed their shock at how empty the city seemed, pointing out the contrast between their previous visit and the current state of the city. The decrease in foot traffic has affected not just tourism-related businesses but also local culture, which has long thrived on the influx of international travelers.
The Balearic Islands, including the famed island of Majorca, have not escaped this trend either. Once known for its idyllic beaches and vibrant nightlife, Majorca is also witnessing a drop in tourism, albeit less pronounced than in Barcelona and Benidorm. However, concerns over overcrowding and the environmental toll of mass tourism are beginning to resonate with both locals and tourists. While Majorca still retains its charm, a visible shift is occurring, with some visitors opting for less crowded, off-the-beaten-path destinations. The growing demand for sustainability and responsible travel has added complexity to the situation, as Majorca grapples with balancing the needs of its visitors with the preservation of its natural resources.
These shifts in tourism patterns are not just the result of isolated events or occasional complaints. Underlying these changes is a broader discontent, particularly among local communities who are feeling the effects of overtourism. Cities like Barcelona, Benidorm, and Majorca have long been popular tourist magnets, but the influx of visitors has brought about challenges. The massive crowds, especially during peak seasons, have strained infrastructure, overwhelmed public services, and driven up the cost of living for locals. As a result, the benefits of tourism are not always seen as outweighing the drawbacks. This growing frustration is manifesting in a variety of ways, from anti-tourism protests to the more extreme expressions of resentment seen on social media platforms like TikTok.
One of the most significant consequences of this rising anti-tourism sentiment is the impact it has on future travel plans. Travelers who had long considered Spain as a top destination are beginning to rethink their choices. A recent traveler who had planned to visit Spain in 2025 or 2026 has expressed hesitation due to these negative attitudes. While Spain had always been a bucket-list destination for this individual, concerns over the unfriendly reception and the growing animosity toward tourists have led them to consider alternative destinations. The situation is compounded by the fact that travelers now have more options than ever before, with many destinations offering similar attractions and experiences without the added tension of anti-tourism sentiment.
The situation in Spain raises important questions about the future of tourism in the country. Will the rise of anti-tourism sentiments continue to shape the way tourists experience Spain? Or will the tourism sector adapt to address the concerns of both locals and visitors? It is clear that some regions of Spain are facing significant challenges in maintaining the delicate balance between welcoming visitors and preserving the well-being of local communities. The question remains whether these concerns can be addressed in a way that satisfies both parties, or if tourism in these regions will experience a prolonged decline.
In response to these challenges, local governments and tourism organizations may need to take a more proactive approach to managing tourism, ensuring that the growth of the industry does not come at the expense of the quality of life for residents. This could involve promoting sustainable tourism practices, implementing stricter regulations on short-term rentals, and encouraging off-season travel to reduce overcrowding during peak periods. Additionally, there is a growing need for dialogue between locals and tourists, fostering mutual understanding and respect for each other’s needs and expectations.
Spain is facing a tourism crisis as major destinations like Barcelona, Benidorm, and Majorca see a sharp decline in visitors, driven by rising anti-tourism sentiments. Locals’ growing hostility toward tourists, including labeling them “cancerous,” has led to empty streets and quieter beaches in these once-bustling hotspots.
the future tourism in Spain will depend on the ability to address these emerging concerns while maintaining the country’s reputation as a world-class destination. As tourism continues to evolve, it will be essential for both locals and tourists to find common ground, ensuring that Spain remains a welcoming and vibrant place for travelers from around the world. Whether or not this balance can be achieved will shape the future of tourism in Spain for years to come.
