Ibiza authorities limit the number of tourist cars in peak season

From 1 June, Ibiza, one of Spain's most popular tourist destinations, has a limit on the number of tourist vehicles, allowing no more than 20,168 cars and caravans used by non-residents per day. The initiative, approved by the Ibiza Island Council, will run until 30 September.

Under the new rules, no more than 16,000 of the total permitted vehicles can be rental cars. The remaining 4,048 are private vehicles, including motorhomes and caravans. A separate daily quota of 120 vehicles is set aside for residents of the neighbouring island of Formentera. Tourists bringing in a private car will need to pay a €1 fee. Entry with a caravan requires proof of a campsite booking, since informal camping and roadside parking are banned. Motorcycles are not covered by the new restrictions.

Compliance is monitored through a digital permit system run by the Ibiza Council's Department of Mobility and Transport, in cooperation with ferry companies, car rental agencies, and traffic police.

The island, home to around 160,000 people, receives more than 3 million tourists a year. Over the past 20 years, the number of cars on Ibiza has quadrupled — from 51,000 in 2002 to 207,000 in 2022. The new restrictions are intended to reduce traffic congestion and support the development of sustainable tourism.

Ibiza Island Council President Vicent Marí stressed: "These measures are aimed at preserving Ibiza's sustainability. The island cannot cope with an unlimited flow of tourists. We are not shutting tourists out — we are calling on them to enjoy our island respectfully and responsibly."

Marí acknowledged resistance from influential players in the tourism industry, primarily car rental companies and major hotel investors, but noted that economic gain should not come at the expense of the environment and the well-being of the local community.

A similar practice has been successfully applied since 2019 by neighbouring Formentera as part of its "Formentera Eco" initiative, recognised as a model example by the European Committee of the Regions. In addition, Mallorca plans to introduce similar measures by 2026, following agreement with the Balearic Islands' Ministry of Mobility and Housing.