Tourism is the lifeblood of many cities, but it can also have a dark side. Indeed, overtourism in the world’s vacation hot spots leads to severe quality of life issues for residents, including harm to the environment, rising housing costs, and congestion in city streets.
Overtourism has the potential to vastly change the cultural identity of a city, turning a once thriving community into little more than an amusement park catering to the whims of day trippers. Many cities have responded by implementing reforms aimed at reducing the effects of overtourism through such tools as caps on the number of tourists, short-term rental regulations, and tourism taxes.
Here we’ll look at some of the most noteworthy examples of cities burdened with overtourism, what these cities are doing to help locals maintain their quality of life, as well as some alternate cities for travelers who are looking for a similar experience to what these cities have to offer, but without the crowds.
Barcelona, Spain
Columbus Monument, Barcelona
One of Spain’s most exquisite cultural destinations, Barcelona has been at the center of recent campaigns to curb overtourism. According to city residents, much of the focus of Barcelona’s overtourism problem centers around two types of tourists: Day trippers and short-term visitors. Day trippers usually visit the city as part of a cruise, disembarking from their ships and then crowding the city’s major landmarks like Las Ramblas and famous Sagrada Familia. Likewise, short-term visitors who stay in vacation rental properties like Airbnbs have driven a rapid increase in home prices in Barcelona, making the city more expensive for residents.
Local leaders have responded to residents’ concerns in a number of ways, most notably by tightening accommodation regulations in tourist areas. The city has banned new hotels from being built in the city center and has reduced the number of leases for short-term rentals. Cruise lines are also being targeted, with the city’s northern port terminal, an entryway that offers quick access to many of the city’s chief landmarks, being closed to cruise ships.
Where to go instead:
- Valencia: Just down the coast, Valencia combines rich culture with relaxed beaches and the striking architecture of the City of Arts and Sciences. Visitors can explore the historic Silk Exchange (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and stroll through the vibrant Central Market, offering a less congested but equally enriching experience.
- Girona: A smaller historic city, Girona is known for its medieval architecture, including the impressive Girona Cathedral and ancient city walls. Its charming, narrow streets and proximity to the scenic Costa Brava provide a serene alternative for those looking to avoid the crowds while immersing themselves in Catalonian history and coastal beauty.
Venice, Italy
Grand Canal, Venice
Long considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Venice’s legendary status has made it a major victim of overtourism. Just as millions of tourists visit the city each year hoping to take a snap of themselves in front of St. Mark’s Basilica, economists warn that overtourism is exacerbating socio-economic issues in Venice, making the city less affordable for locals. Likewise, massive cruise ships are damaging Venice’s ancient infrastructure, putting the city in danger of literally disappearing beneath the waves of the Adriatic Sea forever.
Local leaders have attempted to halt the effects of overtourism by implementing a 5-euro tourist tax for day trippers visiting the city during peak tourism season. The city has further banned large cruise ships from entering the city’s waterways, requiring them to dock on the mainland away from Venice’s historic center.
Where to go instead:
- Trieste: Near the Slovenian border, Trieste boasts serene canals, grand squares like Piazza Unità d’Italia, and a unique blend of Italian and Central European influences. Visitors can explore the Miramare Castle, wander through the old town’s narrow streets, and enjoy the city’s renowned coffee culture, all while avoiding the crowds of Venice.
- Padua: Located just a short distance from Venice, Padua offers a wealth of historical sites, including the Scrovegni Chapel, featuring Giotto’s frescoes, and the Basilica of Saint Anthony. Padua’s relaxed atmosphere allows visitors to enjoy its cultural treasures, botanical gardens, and lively piazzas without the overwhelming tourist presence.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Red Light District, Amsterdam
Amsterdam‘s problem with overtourism is centered around the city’s well-known pub culture and permissive attitude toward marijuana. For decades, Amsterdam has been renowned as Europe’s party city, attracting scores of rowdy globetrotters eager to engage in unrestrained behavior. City officials estimate that over 18 million day trippers visit Amsterdam each year to participate in bar crawls and even more exuberant stag parties, creating major quality of life problems for local residents.
City officials have begun a push to discourage the raucous tourists, including an 11-euro fee for day trippers arriving in the city via cruise ship, the highest such fee in Europe. The city has also launched a dramatic ad campaign warning of legal consequences for visitors coming to the Amsterdam and engaging in questionable behavior. Likewise, a new ordinance passed by the Amsterdam City Council further forbids smoking marijuana in the city’s infamous Red Light District, where many problematic incidents tend to occur.
Where to go instead:
- Utrecht: With its picturesque canals, historic Dom Tower, and vibrant streets, Utrecht offers a similar atmosphere to Amsterdam but with fewer tourists. Visitors can enjoy cozy cafés along the Oudegracht, explore the medieval city center, and take boat tours through its scenic waterways, all while experiencing a more laid-back and authentic Dutch vibe.
- Leiden: Known for its quaint canals, the famous University of Leiden, and remarkable museums like the Rijksmuseum van Oudheden, Leiden provides a charming alternative. Its peaceful botanical gardens and rich history, including being the birthplace of Rembrandt, offer a culturally enriching experience without the party-driven crowds of Amsterdam.
Kyoto, Japan
Gion Neighborhood, Kyoto
The home of Japan’s historic Imperial Palace, Kyoto was one a place where tourists were few and far between, but recent years have seen a surge in international interest in the city. While many locals have enjoyed the increase in tourism revenue, others grumble over overcrowding on the city’s bus lines and rising prices. Still others are appalled by foreigners taking pictures of geishas, a major violation of cultural norms in Japan.
Kyoto’s drive against overtourism has focused on improving the experience of local riders on the city’s bus lines. New policies are geared toward encouraging visitors to avoid crowded buses and instead use the city’s subway system. City officials are also major proponents of empty-handed tourism, which urges visitors to leave large bags and suitcases in their hotels or at local storage facilities to create more room on the transit system.
Where to go instead:
- Nara: Home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Todai-ji Temple and the Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Nara offers a quieter alternative to Kyoto. Visitors can also enjoy the peaceful Nara Park, where sacred deer roam freely, and explore traditional Japanese gardens without the crowds. Nara’s historic treasures and tranquil surroundings provide a more intimate and relaxed experience.
- Kanazawa: Known for its well-preserved samurai districts, traditional teahouses, and the famous Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa offers a step back into Japan’s Edo-period history. With its peaceful atmosphere, visitors can explore the city’s rich cultural heritage, including art museums and historic architecture, without the tourist congestion found in Kyoto.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Old Town, Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik has the dubious honor of being the most over-visited city in Europe, boasting 27 tourists for every native resident. Like many major port cities in Europe, Dubrovnik’s overtourism problem is rooted in its status as a stop on most major cruise tours of the Adriatic. Dubrovnik also has the added burden of being the filming location of the hit television series Game of Thrones, attracting countless fans of the show. As a result, residents are being priced out of housing due to rising costs from home rentals. Also, traditional cafés and restaurants are suffering as fast-food stands cater to tourists looking for a quick bite.
City officials have responded to Dubrovnik’s with a multi-pronged approach. The city has mandated that only two cruise ships can dock at the city’s port at a time, vastly decreasing overcrowding in Dubrovnik’s historic streets. The city council further passed a moratorium on new rental house permits in the historic Old Town neighborhood.
Where to go instead:
- Šibenik: A quieter coastal town, Šibenik features remarkable architecture and rich history, offering a peaceful retreat with far fewer tourists than Dubrovnik. Visitors can explore UNESCO-protected sites like St. James Cathedral and wander through the medieval old town, enjoying its cultural treasures and stunning coastal views at a relaxed pace.
- Zadar: Known for its Roman and Venetian ruins, Zadar combines ancient architecture with a serene coastal atmosphere. Highlights include the Sea Organ and the Roman Forum, as well as breathtaking Adriatic sunsets.
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Lisbon, Portugal
Belem Tower, Lisbon
Heralded as one of the premier destinations on the Iberian Peninsula, Lisbon has seen a surge in interest among tourists within the last 10 years due to a combination of the city’s historic charm and reputation for catering to budget-minded travelers. While Lisbon’s tourism industry has certainly helped generate billions of euros in revenue for the cash-strapped Portugal, residents of the city decry rising prices and traffic jams created by visitors to the historic community.
Public response to overtourism in Lisbon has taken on several forms, the most noteworthy being a proposal to limit the number of tuk-tuk minicabs on the city’s streets. A favorite transportation option for most tourists, tuk-tuks have drawn the ire of many native Lisboetas. The city also increased the tourist tax from 2 euros to 4 euros. Some local businesses have expressed their frustration at the city’s tepid response to overtourism by taking on the issue themselves: Many restaurants in Lisbon now have unofficial resident menus that offer cheaper prices for locals.
Where to go instead:
- Porto: Portugal’s second-largest city, Porto offers stunning views of the Douro River, beautifully preserved historic architecture, and a world-renowned wine culture. With its charming cobbled streets, lively arts scene, and the famous port wine cellars, Porto provides a cultural experience without the intense crowds.
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Évora: This UNESCO-listed town in the heart of the Alentejo region provides a blend of Roman ruins, medieval charm, and a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere. With its ancient city walls, stunning historic sites, and quiet cobbled streets, this town offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of Lisbon.
FAQs:
Q: What are some practical ways travelers can avoid contributing to overtourism?
A: Travelers can choose to visit less crowded destinations, travel during the off-season, use public transportation, and support local businesses that prioritize sustainable tourism practices. Staying in locally owned accommodations rather than short-term rentals can also help reduce pressure on housing markets.
Q: How can I tell if a destination is experiencing overtourism?
A: Signs of overtourism include overcrowded attractions, higher-than-normal prices, restrictions on visitors, and negative feedback from locals. Researching news about a destination and seeking out travel advisories can give you a clearer picture.
Q: Are there alternatives to cruise ship travel that reduce the impact on port cities?
A: Yes, alternatives include taking smaller, eco-friendly cruises, choosing land-based travel options such as trains or buses, or exploring different ways to reach your destination that have a lighter environmental footprint.
Q: How can I be a more responsible tourist?
A: Respect local customs, avoid contributing to overcrowding by visiting less popular attractions, stay in accommodations that prioritize sustainability, and make efforts to minimize your environmental impact by using reusable items and reducing waste.
Q: What should I consider when choosing accommodation to avoid contributing to overtourism?
A: Choose eco-friendly hotels, guesthouses, or locally owned accommodations rather than large, international chains or short-term rentals in overcrowded areas. This helps support the local economy while reducing the strain on housing availability for residents.
Q: How can I still visit popular destinations without worsening overtourism?
A: Try visiting popular cities during off-peak seasons when there are fewer tourists. Explore alternative neighborhoods or lesser-known attractions within the same destination, and consider staying outside the city center to reduce congestion.
Know of any other international destination where overtourism is negatively affecting the way of life of its local residents? Let us know in our comments section below!
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