Catalonia Bans Speculative Buying: Large Holders Will Not Be Able to Invest in 271 Municipalities with Capped Rents
The government of Salvador Illa and Jéssica Albiach's Comuns have agreed a reform of the urban planning law that redefines the rules of the game for investors and operators of Flexible Accommodation in Catalonia. With fines of up to 1.5 million euros and the figure of the large landlord reduced to five properties, the measure —which affects 90% of the Catalan population— introduces unprecedented restrictions in Spain for the accumulation of residential assets in high-demand areas.
European Flexible Accommodation Nears 1 Billion Nights: Spain Leads the Rankings with Andalusia at the Forefront
Digital platforms Airbnb, Booking and Expedia intermediated 951.6 million nights short-stay in the EU during 2025, a 11,4% more that in 2024 and a 32.4% more In 2023, Spain consolidates its position as a dominant market alongside France and Italy, with Andalusia being the second most in-demand region in Europe in the third quarter. Eurostat data confirms that Flexible Accommodation has definitively shed its niche status to become a structural pillar of continental tourism.
Madrid Redefines Flexible Accommodation: New Tourism Law Recognises it as Official Accommodation and Raises Standards
The Community of Madrid has launched one of the most far-reaching reforms for the Flexible Accommodation sector. The new draft Tourism Law will recognise for the first time the Tourist Use Dwellings (VUT) as a type of official tourist accommodation, establishing a framework that seeks professionalisation, quality and greater legal security.
Portugal Ventures Accelerates Flexible Accommodation Innovation with 1.5 Million Investment in Feel Sampa
Portugal's tourism ecosystem gets a new boost. Portugal Ventures has injected €1.5 million in the startup Feel Sampa, a technology platform designed to revolutionise the management of Flexible Accommodation. This strategic investment aims to consolidate Portugal as an innovation hub in the hospitality industry.
The Short Stay Rental Challenge in 2026: How European Regulation is Filtering the Professional Market
On 5 February 2026, the European Parliament adopted key legislative proposals to tackle the housing crisis on the continent.
Andalusia, Queen of Europe: Flexible Accommodation Conquers the Lead Ahead of the Côte d'Azur
The Andalusian region has been crowned as the most demanded destination in Europe for Flexible Accommodation, surpassing iconic locations such as the Côte d'Azur or Catalonia. With a record 26.6 million overnight stays in 2025, the sector is proving to be a key economic pillar, dominated by small owners and in the midst of adapting to a new regulatory framework.
