Several European cities are taking decisive action to curb the rise of short-term rentals, often seen as a key driver of overtourism and housing shortages. From Barcelona to Vienna, local authorities are implementing strict rules or outright bans on short-term stays, most notably through platforms like Airbnb.
Amsterdam, known for its beautiful canals and thriving tourism, faces a severe housing crisis. Since 2021, landlords must register their properties, with most rentals capped at 30 days per year. However, a court ruling recently overturned attempts to ban rentals in high-traffic areas like the red-light district.
In Barcelona, Mayor Jaume Collboni announced plans to eliminate all tourist-oriented short-term rentals by 2028. The city aims to reclaim over 10,000 rental properties and provide them to residents struggling to find affordable housing. This move follows a similar ban in Palma de Mallorca, although experts suggest it could lead to lengthy legal challenges.
Berlin’s approach has evolved over the years. The city introduced the "Zweckentfremdungsverbot" in 2016, restricting short-term rentals. While restrictions were eased in 2018 to allow permits, landlords can still only rent second homes for up to 90 days annually. Similar rules are in place in Munich and Stuttgart, where rental limits range from eight to ten weeks.
Vienna’s new law, effective from July 2024, restricts short-term rentals to 90 days per year. Those wishing to exceed this limit must apply for a permit, with fines of up to €50,000 (US$52,700) for non-compliance.
Florence has also taken action, banning new short-term rentals in its historic centre while offering tax breaks to those opting for long-term rentals, though the decision has faced legal challenges.
These measures reflect growing frustration among locals and municipal leaders who are determined to strike a balance between tourism and livability.