Barcelona mayor Jaume Collboni has taken a firm stance on the city’s saturated tourism, bluntly stating that ‘not one more tourist’ can be accommodated. Speaking in an interview on Cadena SER, the Socialist Party leader underlined that managing tourism in a way that benefits residents and preserves coexistence is now a top priority for the council.
His comments come amid discussions over the expansion of Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced a €13 billion national investment plan for airports between 2027 and 2031, but it remains unclear how much will be allocated to Barcelona.
Collboni outlined several measures the city is taking to curb the pressure of mass tourism. These include the ban on new tourist flat licences from 2028, which he described as a firm warning to rental platforms such as Airbnb. ‘I defend the right of Barcelonins to stroll through their own city,’ he said.
The mayor also highlighted a deal with the Port of Barcelona to cut the number of planned cruise terminals from seven to five, with three existing public terminals to be demolished and replaced by one new facility. Meanwhile, private terminals will remain, including one currently under construction.
In addition, the council has created a commissioner for tourism, appointing academic and former PSC deputy José Donaire. Donaire, who has long been critical of expanding the airport, will oversee the delicate task of balancing economic interests with residents’ concerns.
The mayor’s uncompromising statement reflects growing unease over tourism’s impact on housing, mobility and quality of life in Barcelona, a city that has become a global destination but is now seeking ways to reset its relationship with visitors.
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