Else Beekman
The Balearic government is taking bold action to tackle the strain of mass tourism. With visitor numbers soaring to record highs, authorities have unveiled a “containment and sustainability” plan. This is aimed at balancing economic benefits with environmental responsibility. Key measures is a new tourist tax on non-resident cars.
Additionally the government plans a significant hike in the “green tax” for tourists. However the tax on private and rental cars registered outside the Balearic Islands is one of the most notable measures. This tax will vary based on emissions and the duration of stay, ranging from €30 to €85 per vehicle.
A standard car arriving from mainland Spain could face a charge of around €50 per trip, while rental cars staying for several months may pay up to €85. The tax is designed to target both private cars and rental vehicles that significantly increase the number of cars on the islands, especially in the summer months.
Rental companies that register all their vehicles in the Balearic Islands and already pay local circulation taxes will be exempt. However, the measure is still a proposal and must be approved by the regional parliament, where the ruling party lacks a majority.
Eco-tax for tourists set to increase
The government is also set to increase the tourist tax applied to overnight stays. The Sustainable Tourism Tax, introduced over two decades ago, will rise between 66% and 200% during peak season (June-August). Depending on the type of accommodation, the tax will range from €1 to €6 per night per person. In winter (January and February), the government will temporarily remove the tax to encourage off-season tourism.
Cruise ship tourist tax tripled
Another significant measure is a threefold increase in the tax for cruise ship visitors during the summer months. Cruise passengers will now pay €6 per night instead of the previous €2.
Stricter penalties for illegal tourist rentals
The government will increase fines for illegal holiday rentals, with penalties reaching up to €500,000—a 25% increase from the previous threshold. The authorities will collaborate with law enforcement to crack down on unauthorized rentals and hold online platforms accountable for listing illegal properties.
Balearic Islands have reached a tipping point
With 18.7 million tourists in 2024—more than 15 times the resident population—the Balearic Islands have reached a tipping point. In 2025, projections indicate that 20 million visitors could arrive, putting immense pressure on infrastructure, housing, and local communities.
Tourism is vital to the region, generating over €20 billion annually, but officials stress the need for a sustainable approach. “These islands have reached their limit. Growth is no longer sustainable, and we must act decisively,” said Tourism Minister Jaume Bauzà.