Tourism is straining Barcelona’s muscles, as it does in almost all major global cities, which are in constant debate about how to adapt their economic model so that tourism is not the only driver of growth. Rarely do many voices agree on the need to find new tools to boost economic activity, while rethinking the future and sustainability of tourism. The road to balance is long and the distance traveled is small. But it is everyone’s responsibility to move in the right direction.
There are neglected islands that are immune to the growing tourist phobia, such as Paseo de Gracia. The artery of the Catalan capital, which recently celebrated its bicentenary, is healthier than ever.
It is encouraging that every day of the first quarter of 2024, more than 51,500 people visited the park, which is 20% more than before the pandemic. Its unemployment level is just 4% – half the rate in the pre-Covid era -, it has a waiting list for new operators and the rental price for its buildings has risen to €263.5 per square meter and month. This figure keeps it the most expensive shopping street in Spain as of 2021, as presented by Patricia Castan.
The Corniche achieves these requirements because it has succeeded in combining the commercial, hotel and restaurant offer, which, despite being luxurious, has spaces for all purchasing powers. In contrast, it is commendable that what many call Barcelona’s true main street has maintained its multimodality – with the peaceful coexistence of pedestrians and traffic – and its connection with the public. This means that it was consolidated as a space for civic demonstrations or popular celebrations such as Sant Jordi.
Cases like that of the Passeig de Gràcia should inspire the necessary debate on the tourism model of cities.
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