Archive · 15 Sep 2025
Santiago de Compostela Grapples with Overtourism Impacts
Santiago de Compostela, the final destination of the famous Way of St. James pilgrimage, is dealing with too many tourists.
This influx has made it harder for locals to find affordable housing, leading to resentment.
The city council has limited short-term rentals to help.
The city has lost half of its residents to this trend.
Even though the city is popular, residents are unhappy because of the negative effects of too many tourists.
Pilgrims also note the changing atmosphere.
Santiago de Compostela is facing overtourism due to the Way of St. James pilgrimage.
The city's historic center is struggling to house its residents because of short-term rentals.
Annual rent prices increased 44% from 2018 to 2023.
A ban on Airbnb-style tourist accommodations was enacted in the historic center.
More than half the residents rejected tourism in 2023.
- Who
- Residents and tourists in Santiago de Compostela
- What
- Overtourism impacts the city, causing resident discontent.
- When
- Overtourism intensified in recent years.
- Where
- Santiago de Compostela, Spain, at the end of the Way of St. James.
- Why
- Increased tourism due to the Camino de Santiago and social media.
Residents
Tourism Industry
Housing Availability
Residents
The increase in short-term rentals has reduced housing availability for residents.
Tourism Industry
Not explicitly stated in the article.
City Atmosphere
Residents
Residents feel the city is losing its community feel due to tourism.
Tourism Industry
Not explicitly stated in the article.
- Location
- Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Pilgrimage Name
- The Way of St. James (Camino de Santiago)
- Pilgrims in 2023
- 500,000+
- Rent Increase (2018-2023)
- 44%
- Airbnb Ban in Historic Center
- Enacted November
- Resident Rejection of Tourism (2023)
- Over 50%
