Mallorca, one of Spain’s best-known holiday islands, is facing calls to limit tourist accommodation as concerns about overcrowding grow.
Jordi Mora, who leads Pimem, a federation of small and medium-sized businesses on the island, says Mallorca should take stronger steps to manage tourism, including reducing the number of available tourist beds.
His proposal would cut the supply of registered holiday rentals and step up enforcement against illegal ones. Mora said some small hotel owners might support the changes if they were introduced through agreements and incentives, helping the island move toward a more sustainable tourism model.
Mallorca welcomed about 13.5 million visitors in 2025. The island covers roughly 1,400 square miles, making the scale of those visitor numbers a particular concern for residents and businesses.
Travel expert Jordi Lippe-McGraw has said destinations can quickly become overwhelmed when they attract sudden attention. The resulting crowds, she noted, can drive up costs for local people and put added strain on the area.
Mallorca has also considered attracting fewer visitors who spend more. Pedro Homar, head of Palma’s tourism board, said the island would like to draw wealthier American travelers and focus on quality rather than sheer numbers. In July, American visitors to Spain spent an average of about $410 a day, compared with roughly $240 for German tourists and $260 for British travelers.
Mora argued that the island does not need more tourists to strengthen its economy. Instead, he said, it should increase the value of tourism and make sure the benefits reach society more broadly.
Tourism growth has prompted public protests. In June 2025, thousands of people marched in Mallorca, with some carrying signs that read, “One more tourist, one less resident.”
Visitor crowds have also raised safety concerns. Videos shared over the summer appeared to show pickpockets targeting tourists in Palma, including older visitors near popular sights. Travel expert Angel Castellanos said crowded areas can give thieves opportunities, particularly when visitors are distracted or unfamiliar with their surroundings. His advice was not to avoid such places, but to take care and stay aware.
