The Catalan authorities have approved a drastic increase in the tourist tax, which from April could amount to up to 15 euros per night in Barcelona. This decision was made amid growing protests by residents against the cost of living. At the same time, Mayor Jaume Collboni announced a 260 million euro plan to revitalize the area around La Sagrera station, where a new residential neighborhood for 25,000 people will be created to help solve the housing crisis.

Doubling of the tourist tax

From April, fees in Barcelona will rise to 15 euros per night, and the revenue will fund the housing fund.

Revitalization of La Sagrera

A 260 million euro investment in a new neighborhood for 25,000 people and a 36-hectare park.

Discovery of the Roman forum

The find in the Gothic Quarter changes knowledge about the urban orientation of ancient Barcino.

Virtual Gaudí workshop

Barcelona Cathedral opens an immersive exhibition recreating the workshop of the brilliant architect.

The Parliament of Catalonia has passed a new law that from April 1, 2026, significantly increases fees for tourist accommodation. In Barcelona, rates will be doubled immediately, which for five-star hotels means an increase from 3.5 to 7 euros, and after adding municipal fees, the total cost could reach 15 euros per night. The reform, supported by the socialists (PSC), ERC, and Comuns, is expected to bring in an additional 100 million euros annually. According to the new regulations, 25% of this revenue will be allocated directly to social housing, in response to rapidly rising property prices and protests targeting mass tourism. Mayor Jaume Collboni presented his vision for the city until 2035, focusing on closing the "urban wound" in the La Sagrera area. The 260 million euro investment by 2031 will include the construction of over 11,000 homes, nearly half of which will be protected units. The project also envisions the creation of Barcelona's largest public park, covering 36 hectares, which will cover the railway tracks. Collboni emphasized that the goal is to guarantee residents the right to live in the capital of Catalonia, even at the cost of driving speculative funds out of the city. Since the 1990s, when the Olympic Games transformed Barcelona into a global metropolis, the city has been grappling with gentrification and tensions between residents and tourists.In the realm of cultural heritage, the city is experiencing two groundbreaking events. Archaeological research in the Gothic Quarter has forced a redefinition of the history of Roman Barcino – the discovered paving of the forum proves that the heart of the ancient city was oriented perpendicular to the sea, contradicting previous theories. At the same time, Barcelona Cathedral has opened an innovative exhibition using virtual reality, allowing visitors to explore Antoni Gaudí's workshop, which was destroyed during the civil war. „Hay una idea de que la ciudad está acabada. Creo que debemos construir más y garantizar el derecho a quedarse en Barcelona.” (There is an idea that the city is finished. I believe we must build more and guarantee the right to stay in Barcelona.) — Jaume CollboniHowever, political challenges are looming on the horizon. The mayor warned that the failure of the regional government to pass the Generalitat's budget creates a risk of losing 250 million euros for joint investment commitments. Despite these concerns, the hydrological situation in the region remains stable – reservoirs within Catalonia are over 93% full, dispelling the threat of drought before the upcoming summer season.

Mentioned People

  • Jaume Collboni — Mayor of Barcelona, announced investment plans and addressed the tourist tax issue.
  • Antoni Gaudí — Famous architect whose workshop was digitally reconstructed as part of the Gaudí Year 2026 celebrations.
  • Salvador Illa — President of the Generalitat de Catalunya, returning after a health break.