Spain, Portugal, Italy, Andorra: What You Need to Know About the New Tourism Measures Impacting Major European Cities

Published on December 5, 2025

In 2025, Spain, along with several other European nations, is introducing significant changes in travel regulations. These changes are aimed at both enhancing security and controlling the pressures of mass tourism. As one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations, Spain’s move reflects a broader trend across the continent where the rise in travel demand, combined with environmental and social concerns, has led to stricter controls and higher costs. These new rules are set to impact both international and domestic tourists, ensuring a more sustainable and controlled influx of visitors while balancing the needs of local communities.

New Border Control Measures: Spain Joins EU’s Tightened Security Initiative

One of the most significant changes in Spain in 2025 is the implementation of the EU Entry/Exit System (EES). This new border control system, launched on October 12, 2025, aims to streamline the movement of non-EU visitors while tightening security. Under the new system, all visitors from non-EU countries will now have to provide biometric data upon entry. This includes:

• Passport data
• Fingerprints
• A facial image

These measures will allow authorities to track visitors more efficiently, preventing visa overstays and enhancing border security. Spain, along with other Schengen Area nations, will be fully integrated into this system by April 2026.

While the rollout of the EES has faced delays, particularly at the Port of Dover in the UK, travellers should prepare for potential wait times at the Spanish borders. Despite some early technical challenges, the long-term goal is to speed up the entry process, benefiting travellers once the system becomes fully operational.

Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETIAS) Delayed Until 2026

While Spain has embraced digital border systems, tourists from visa-exempt countries will need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System). Initially set to roll out in 2025, ETIAS has now been postponed until late 2026. This online system will require travellers from certain countries to register before entering Spain and other Schengen nations. At a cost of €20, ETIAS will allow visitors to stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

This system is part of Europe’s efforts to ensure the safety and security of both locals and visitors. Although it represents an additional step in travel preparations, it is expected to reduce wait times at border checks and increase the overall efficiency of the Schengen Area.

Rising Costs: Tourist Taxes and Accommodation Restrictions

Alongside the tightening of entry requirements, tourist taxes are becoming more common across Spain. In 2025, cities such as Barcelona and Madrid have introduced higher taxes for visitors staying in short-term rentals like Airbnb. This is part of a broader initiative to tackle the rise in property rental costs caused by tourism. Spain’s government has acknowledged that these taxes are necessary to fund infrastructure improvements and preserve the local community, which has faced growing pressures from mass tourism.

Additionally, restrictions on short-term rentals have been introduced in some of the country’s most popular tourist cities. This is a direct response to the influx of tourists in places like Barcelona and Madrid, where the housing market has been strained. The aim is to reduce the number of tourists staying in budget accommodation options and instead promote sustainable tourism that benefits both the economy and the local residents.

For travellers looking to explore Spain in 2025, it’s important to be aware of these changes. Higher accommodation costs and taxes may impact your overall travel budget, but there are still plenty of ways to experience the country without breaking the bank.

Focus on Quality Tourism: Moving Away from Mass Tourism

Spain’s shift towards quality tourism is designed to address the concerns of both residents and travellers. The goal is to reduce the number of budget travellers and instead focus on attracting high-spending tourists who will contribute to the economy while helping to preserve the country’s natural and cultural heritage.

Several Spanish cities are already enforcing rules to limit mass tourism:

• San Sebastián has introduced a ban on smoking at beaches to ensure cleaner public spaces for both locals and visitors.
• Palma in Majorca has cracked down on party boats in a bid to curb noise pollution and maintain a peaceful atmosphere for residents.
• Albufeira, in Portugal, has announced fines for tourists who wear minimal clothing in public areas, enforcing a more respectful dress code.

These measures reflect a growing trend in European tourism: a focus on preserving local cultures and creating a better experience for both tourists and residents.

Increasing Costs: Higher Fees for Skiing, Tourism Taxes

Beyond taxes on accommodation, tourism fees are also rising across Spain. Ski resorts in Andorra, Catalonia, and the Pyrenees have seen significant increases in prices, with ski passes jumping by as much as 40% in recent years. This increase is largely attributed to soaring energy costs and higher maintenance fees, which have been passed on to customers.

In Venice, Italy, a day-tripper fee remains in place for visitors who arrive for a single day without staying overnight. This measure is part of an ongoing effort to control the number of day visitors and fund infrastructure improvements in the historic city.

Behavior Crackdowns: Keeping the Peace in Tourist Hotspots

Spain is also taking steps to regulate tourist behaviour, cracking down on incidents that disrupt local communities. Notably, there are now fines for passengers who cause disturbances during flights to and from Spain. For example, passengers who do not adhere to air travel rules may be fined up to €20,000 or even banned from flying for up to four years.

Additionally, local authorities are now more proactive in enforcing smoking bans on beaches in coastal areas like San Sebastián. These regulations are part of a broader effort to ensure that Spain’s tourist destinations remain clean and peaceful, benefiting both residents and visitors.

Travel in 2025: What to Expect in Spain

With these new measures coming into effect, travellers to Spain in 2025 should plan ahead. From new entry requirements and rising costs to stricter behaviour regulations, navigating Spain’s evolving travel landscape requires careful preparation. Whether it’s applying for the ETIAS, paying higher tourist taxes, or adhering to new behaviour rules, tourists must stay informed and adjust their travel plans accordingly.

Here are some tips for navigating Spain’s travel changes in 2025:

• Plan for Longer Wait Times at Borders: Due to the new EU Entry/Exit System and the implementation of ETIAS, expect some delays at the border, especially during peak travel seasons.
• Be Prepared for Higher Accommodation Costs: Tourist taxes and restrictions on short-term rentals may raise your accommodation costs. Look for alternative options like traditional hotels or vacation rentals that comply with the new regulations.
• Adhere to Local Behaviour Rules: Smoking bans, dress code regulations, and fines for disruptive behaviour are now common across Spain’s tourist hotspots. Be mindful of local customs and follow the rules to avoid penalties.
• Factor in Rising Costs for Skiing and Attractions: Higher ski pass prices and increased fees for attractions like museums and parks should be considered when budgeting for your trip.

Conclusion

Spain’s travel landscape in 2025 is marked by a series of changes aimed at improving the experience for both tourists and locals. With a focus on quality tourism, enhanced border security, and stricter behaviour regulations, Spain is shaping up to be a destination where visitors will need to plan carefully and spend wisely. Whether you’re planning a ski trip to the Pyrenees, a beach holiday in Barcelona, or a cultural exploration of Madrid, these new rules will ensure a more sustainable and pleasant experience for everyone.