Before my visit to Barcelona in March, news headlines filled with warnings about tourists being sprayed with water guns and locals shouting “Tourists go home!” had sparked my skepticism and concern. The media painted a picture of a city overwhelmed by tourism and crying out for relief. As I prepared to run in one of the city’s largest international marathons, I pondered whether my presence would exacerbate the situation. However, upon exploring the reality of the city, I discovered a far more intricate narrative. Major events like marathons often yield significant economic benefits, and despite the worries, the city embraced the influx of visitors with enthusiasm rather than hostility.
International marathons are notably lucrative, with the 2022 Chicago Marathon generating approximately €340 million, contributing significantly to the local economy. Although Barcelona’s marathon isn’t as prominent, it still attracted 27,000 participants—7,000 more than in previous years. The presence of so many eager runners and supporters created an electrifying atmosphere, with thousands of locals cheering along the 42-kilometre course. This sense of camaraderie suggested that, while anti-tourism protests loom, marathons remain untouched by such sentiments for now. The locals appeared proud, united in celebrating the marathon’s spirit, rather than resentful of the tourists.
Nonetheless, the pressure of increasing visitors is palpable, and it’s evident that some residents are hitting their breaking point. Barcelona receives over 12 million tourists annually, many of whom flock to iconic attractions like the Sagrada Família and Park Güell, leading to immense strain on both the sites and their surrounding neighborhoods. Although tourism supports roughly 125,000 jobs and accounts for about 15% of the city’s economy, many locals are demanding a more sustainable balance rather than an outright ban on tourists. Jordi Luque Sanz, a native food writer, notes that while tourism has surged, there’s a lack of adequate planning by the government, leading to overcrowding in multiple areas.
The strain from tourism is exacerbated by the prevalence of short-term rentals and the influx of cruise ship passengers. Many apartments are being converted into Airbnbs, inflating rent prices and transforming once-peaceful neighborhoods into noisy party zones. Ann-Marie Brannigan, an expat who runs local tours, highlights that many tourists lack understanding of Barcelona’s culture and are often unaware of local etiquette. Quick stops by cruise passengers often fail to generate meaningful economic contributions, and the mayor has suggested imposing limits on one-day visitors to alleviate strain on public transport and popular locales.
Yet, amidst the overcrowded landmarks, a different side of Barcelona awaits those willing to explore beyond the tourist-heavy spots. Lesser-known attractions like the Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau allow visitors to appreciate the city’s rich artistic heritage with far fewer crowds. Local markets and cafes offer authentic experiences that showcase the city’s true character. Advancing beyond major tourist destinations invites a deeper understanding of the city’s unique culture. Luque encourages travelers to discover neighborhoods often overlooked, asserting that these experiences provide a more genuine glimpse into the life of Barcelona.
As pressure mounts, the city’s future as a tourist destination hangs in the balance. Recent protests indicate a yearning for change, with advocates stressing the necessity for tourists to approach the city with respect and curiosity. There is a growing call for a more mindful type of tourism—one which honors local customs and traditions while contributing positively to the community. Protesters have echoed this sentiment, suggesting that the city’s needs might be better met if both tourists and locals engage in a more collaborative dialogue about the impacts of tourism. The sentiment is clear: Barcelona is not inherently anti-tourist but is advocating for a shift in tourist behavior and expectations, seeking a visitor who is engaged, respectful, and willing to contribute to the city’s unique tapestry.
