Spain: To tackle problems with large tour groups in the most popular destination Barcelona, the Barcelona authorities introduced new measures.
As per new measures, noise restrictions, person capacities, and a one-way system for tours in different centres across the city, in an effort to reduce the pressure on the residents
As visitor numbers return to pre-pandemic levels, the regulations aim to reduce the pressure on local residents.
Tour guides will have to forgo megaphones and adopt headsets and earpieces instead or speak at a normal volume.
Tour operators are required to plot walking routes that “minimise inconvenience.” Tours must also adhere to a one-way system and routes are limited to 24 streets and squares.
During the tour, leaders have been asked to choose stops where there is plenty of space in order to avoid becoming an obstacle for other pedestrians.
Groups are capped at a maximum of 30 people, which drops to 15 in the very narrow streets of the Ciutat Vella, the city’s oldest neighbourhood. Some historic sights will only permit groups of three to eight visitors at a time.
Tour companies have also been asked to encourage visitors to pre-book tours in advance instead of touting for bookings in the city streets.
Barcelona’s restrictions come as the country clamps down on undesirable tourist behaviour.
