Barcelona has long been one of Europe’s most visited cities, known for its beaches, architecture, and tapas. But as tourism numbers skyrocket post-pandemic, a new symbol has emerged among locals to express their discontent: the water gun.
In recent weeks, videos have gone viral showing Barcelona residents using brightly colored water pistols to spray tourists—particularly those partying loudly or ignoring local etiquette. What might look like a prank is actually a pointed message. The water gun has become a form of protest, a light-hearted but direct way for residents to say: enough is enough.
A Growing Tension
Tourism in Barcelona isn’t new. In 2023 alone, the city saw over 12 million visitors. But for locals, the tipping point has come from the daily disruptions tourism now causes—rising rents, overcrowded neighborhoods, and the loss of local identity. The Gothic Quarter and Barceloneta are particularly affected, often filled to the brim with tour groups, short-term rentals, and partygoers.
Many residents feel sidelined in their own city. Municipal efforts like limiting short-term rentals and regulating tour groups have made some progress, but many locals say these measures don’t go far enough.
The Water Gun as Protest Tool
The water gun’s rise as a protest symbol didn’t come out of nowhere. It started in late spring 2024 when a group of residents in Barceloneta used them during an impromptu demonstration against disruptive tourists. The idea caught on quickly, partly because of how visible and shareable it was on social media. Within days, it became a recognizable tool of protest—non-violent, cheeky, and unmistakable.
Activists say it’s not about being hostile; it’s about being heard. One local summed it up: “We’re not against tourism, we’re against how it’s being managed.”
Beyond the Water
Barcelona’s water gun protests are part of a broader trend across Europe. From Venice to Amsterdam, cities are grappling with the downsides of overtourism. In Barcelona, the water gun is simply the most recent—and memorable—expression of that tension.
Local officials are taking notice. The city council has pledged to revisit its tourism strategy, but residents remain skeptical. For now, the water gun stays holstered—but ready.
The Bigger Picture
At its core, the rise of the water gun as a symbol in Barcelona reflects a larger debate: who gets to enjoy a city, and at what cost? The answer isn’t easy. But the message from locals is clear—they’re not staying silent, and they’ve found a colorful way to make some noise.
