Valencia City Council Approves Moratorium on Tourist Flats and Bans Megacruises in Port of Valencia
In an effort to curb the increasing number of tourist flats in the area, the Valencia City Council has approved the penultimate municipal moratorium in Spanish cities. The goal is to slow down the rise of commercial premises in various neighborhoods and prevent mass tourism from taking over the city. This measure, put in place by Mayor María José Catalá, includes a precautionary suspension of licenses for one year, with the possibility of extending it for another year.
The city council aims to promote “quality and sustainable tourism” while welcoming tourists in a controlled manner to ensure balanced growth in the future. The restrictions on mass tourism come at a time when the city’s housing market is under pressure, with rental prices having increased significantly over the past few years. The council also banned megacruises docking in the Port of Valencia starting in 2026.
Similarly, other regions in Spain, such as the Balearic Islands, are also taking steps to address the issues caused by the boom in vacation rentals. The social impact of mass tourism and the effects on housing prices have led to protests and demands for stricter regulations in various cities across the country. In response, local governments are implementing measures to limit the growth of tourist accommodations and ensure a more sustainable tourism model.
The decision sparked criticism from business lobby groups like shipping company chaired by Vicente Boluda. While certain types of accommodations such as hotels are exempt from this moratorium, it will affect many tourist homes that cater to short-term stays. However, these initiatives reflect a growing awareness of
