Where to Stay in Spain After the Airbnb Decision

Spain is one of the most loved travel destinations in the world. But if you’re planning a trip in 2025, you may notice that it’s harder to find short-term rentals, especially on platforms like Airbnb. Why is this happening, and what are your Airbnb alternatives in Spain?

Why Did the Ban Happen in Spain?

Spain is facing a serious housing crisis. Rents have nearly doubled in the past 10 years, and many locals, especially in big cities like Madrid and Barcelona, are struggling to find homes.

One of the main reasons? Too many properties are being used for short-term tourist rentals instead of for local residents. This has created growing tension between tourism and everyday living.

In 2025, the Spanish government decided to take strong action. Over 65,000 Airbnb listings were removed because they didn’t follow the law. Many of these listings didn’t have the right license number or gave false information. These are some of the biggest Airbnb legal issues in Spain today.

The goal is clear: to protect local people’s right to affordable housing while still allowing vacation rentals in Spain, as long as they meet legal requirements.

Where to Stay in Spain Now?

The rules have changed, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find places to stay. You just need to know where to look and what to check.

The safest way is to look for properties that are legally licensed. Every short-term rental now needs to be listed in the National Rental Registry (NRA) and must have a registration number called NIU. This number must be shown on platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, and Vrbo. If it’s missing, the listing might be illegal.

So before you book, always look for this license number. If it’s not there, be careful. Choosing legal short-term rentals in Spain helps you avoid trouble and makes your trip smoother. Many travelers now prefer to book only legal holiday rentals in Spain to stay safe and follow local rules.

Are There Airbnb Alternatives in Spain?

Yes! There are still many ways to find vacation homes in Spain. If you're searching for the best places to stay in Spain, from the coastal beauty of Málaga and Marbella to the sunny charm of Alicante, there are now more diverse and legal alternatives than ever before. Here are some alternatives following the new short-term rental regulations in Spain:

Booking.com: One of the largest travel platforms, and it now follows Spain’s new accommodation rules.

Fairbnb: A cooperative-based platform. It supports ethical tourism by offering homes lived in by locals.

Vrbo: Offers holiday homes with a focus on families and longer stays.

Rentalia: A part of Idealista, it allows you to contact owners directly, with no middleman. Great for finding legal short-term rentals in Spain across the country.

Plum Guide: Offers handpicked luxury homes. Only a small percentage of applications are accepted, ensuring high quality for travelers who want both elegance and safety.

EcoBnb: It lists eco-friendly rural stays that meet strict environmental criteria. Very popular in regions like Andalusia.

Local Agencies: Especially in tourist areas, local rental companies often have legal, registered homes.

All of these are great Spain holiday accommodation options.

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