In the age of social media and affordable travel, the world has become more accessible than ever. While this has created countless opportunities for cultural exchange and economic growth, it has also led to a phenomenon known as overtourism. This occurs when popular destinations are overwhelmed by visitors, leading to significant impacts on the environment, local infrastructure and residents’ day-to-day lives.
Let’s look at some of the world’s most beloved travel hotspots where the influx of tourists has become a burden and where locals are beginning to wish that visitors would think twice before booking their trips.
Venice, Italy
Venice is a city that’s almost synonymous with overtourism. With its picturesque canals and historic architecture, it’s no wonder that millions of tourists flock to this Italian gem each year. In fact, Venice sees approximately 25 million visitors each year. The sheer volume of tourists has led to crowded streets, inflated prices and a strain on local resources. The city’s unique ecosystem is also under threat, as massive cruise ships continue to dock in its fragile waters.
In response to these challenges, the local government has introduced a congestion charge also known as the Venice Access Fee for tourists. This 5 euro fee kicked into force in April 2024 and is aimed at regulating the number of day-trippers entering the historic heart of the city and encouraging more sustainable tourism practices.
The tax is only levied during select summer days and only between the hours of 8.30 am and 4 pm. Also, if you’re staying overnight in Venice you would be exempt from the Venice Access Fee and would instead pay a daily Venice Accommodation Tax of between 1-5 euros directly to your hotel or B&B.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona’s stunning architecture, vibrant culture and beautiful beaches make it a favourite among travelers. Yet, the constant stream of tourists has left many residents feeling overwhelmed. The cost of living has skyrocketed and the character of local neighborhoods is changing as traditional shops and cafes are replaced by souvenir stores and fast-food chains catering to tourists.
In recent years, frustration among locals has boiled over into overtourism protests. Residents have taken to the streets to voice their displeasure with the relentless influx of visitors, which they feel is eroding their quality of life. These protests have sometimes escalated to dramatic actions; there have been reports of angry locals spraying tourists with water as a form of protest. This aggressive stance highlights the deep-seated resentment felt by many Barcelonans who see their city being transformed in ways that prioritize tourism over their own needs and well-being.
The local government has been trying to address these issues through various measures, including limiting new hotel developments and regulating short-term rentals like those offered by Airbnb. Despite these efforts, the struggle to find a balance between welcoming tourists and preserving the quality of life for residents continues.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik’s popularity soared after it was featured in the hit TV series “Game of Thrones.” While this brought a significant boost to the local economy, it also led to severe overcrowding. The ancient city’s narrow streets are often packed with visitors, making it difficult for locals to go about their daily lives.
In recent years, Dubrovnik has taken decisive steps to address overtourism. One significant measure, introduced in 2017, has been clamping down on the number of cruise ships allowed to dock at the city’s port. Previously, multiple large ships could arrive simultaneously, overwhelming the Old Town with thousands of tourists in a short period. Now, the city has introduced restrictions to limit the number of cruise ships and stagger their arrivals, ensuring a more manageable flow of visitors.
More recently, in 2019, local authorities implemented regulations on the timings of visits to the Old Town. Tourists are encouraged to visit during less crowded times and there are efforts to spread out visitor numbers throughout the day. These measures aim to reduce congestion, preserve the historic charm of Dubrovnik and improve the experience for both tourists and residents.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam’s canals, museums and vibrant nightlife draw millions of tourists each year. However, the city’s residents have expressed growing frustration over the noise, litter and congestion caused by visitors.
Recently, Amsterdam has taken a firmer stance against certain types of tourism that are particularly disruptive. British stag and hen parties have become notorious for their rowdy behaviour, contributing to noise pollution and public disturbances. In response, the city has launched a campaign specifically aimed at discouraging these groups from visiting. The campaign includes advertisements in the UK warning that such parties are not welcome in Amsterdam and highlighting the city’s strict regulations and potential fines for public nuisance.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to shift Amsterdam’s image away from being a party destination and towards a more culturally and historically enriching experience. By addressing the issues caused by rowdy tourists, the city hopes to improve the quality of life for its residents and ensure that tourism benefits everyone.
Palma, Spain
Palma, the capital of the Balearic Islands, has long been a sun-soaked paradise attracting visitors with its stunning beaches, historic architecture and lively cultural scene. However, beneath the postcard-perfect surface, a storm has been brewing. The relentless influx of tourists has pushed the city’s residents to their breaking point.
In a dramatic display of frustration, graffiti emblazoned with the words “tourism = terrorism” appeared on walls across Palma, a stark reminder of the growing hostility towards visitors. This wasn’t just an act of vandalism; it was a cry for help from a community feeling suffocated by overtourism.
The discontent didn’t stop at graffiti. Protests erupted, with locals marching through the streets, demanding action against the overwhelming tide of tourists that was transforming their city, in the eyes of residents, into an unrecognizable playground for outsiders.
In response, Palma’s government has been forced to take drastic measures. Stricter regulations on vacation rentals, efforts to promote off-season tourism and educational campaigns have been launched, hoping to foster a more harmonious coexistence between visitors and locals.
Closing Thoughts
While travel can be a wonderful way to experience new cultures and support local economies, it’s essential to be mindful of the impact that our visits can have on the destinations we love. Overtourism not only disrupts residents’ daily lives but also threatens the charm and character that make these places worth visiting. By choosing less crowded destinations, traveling during off-peak times, and respecting local customs and environments, we can help ensure that these beautiful locations remain enjoyable for both tourists and residents alike.
