Tourism can be a blessing to the economy of many people cities all over the world, but it often comes at a price. Destinations like Venice and Bali are iconic for a reason: they are unique and breathtaking places that attract travelers from all over the world. But when a travel destination becomes too popular, it risks losing its charm and overcrowding can strain infrastructure, inflate costs for residents and disrupt the peace and quiet of serene small towns.
Here are 12 destinations that have struggled with overtourism. The good news? Many are implementing smart strategies to balance tourism and sustainability. Planning to visit? Remember to book during out of season for a more authentic and enjoyable experience or try them hidden gems.
Venice, Italy
Cruise ships and swarms of tourists have overwhelmed this picturesque city, leading to overcrowded canals, damaged infrastructure and skyrocketing prices. The local population is dwindling as Venetians leave due to the city's unsustainable tourism boom. Last spring, in an effort to manage the influx, the city implemented an entry fee for day-trippers and limited cruise ships docking on its shores.
Bali, Indonesia
Once an idyllic paradise, Bali today suffers from traffic jams, environmental degradation and overcrowded beaches. The island's resources are strained under the weight of mass tourism, but efforts are underway to promote sustainability, such as imposing a moratorium on hotel construction.
Willian Justen de Vasconcellos
Machu Picchu, Peru
Overtourism has led to erosion and damage to this ancient Inca citadel. A quota system and mandatory guides help preserve this popular South American destination.
Tulum, Mexico
Once a tranquil paradise known for its pristine beaches, ancient Mayan ruins and eco-chic vibe, Tulum has become a cautionary tale of overtourism. The rise in popularity, fueled by Instagram-worthy scenery, has led to overpopulation, environmental pressures and rising costs. The guardianreported that locals are being driven out by developers and despite the idea that tourism helps local communities, poverty has almost doubled between 2015 and 2020. Local ecosystems, including fragile mangroves and coral reefs, are also threatened by uncontrolled construction and pollution. Local ruins have stricter rules in place, such as no eating or drinking, to limit waste and the environmental impact of tourists.
Santorini, Greece
Instagram fame has transformed this once serene island into a tourist hotspot. The narrow streets are perpetually clogged and residents face the rising cost of living due to tourist demand. The government has since capped the number of daily visitors to cruise ships to prevent overtourism.
Cinque Terre, Italy
Known for their colorful cliffside villages and breathtaking coastal views, these once-quiet fishing towns now welcome millions of visitors each year, far more than they can accommodate. To combat issues such as congestion and cruise ships, local authorities have introduced visitor caps and are encouraging sustainable travel to protect the charm of Cinque Terre.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Is there anyone who doesn't go to Iceland these days? A small country with breathtaking scenery, Iceland has been overwhelmed by tourists flocking to Instagram-famous sites like the Blue Lagoon and Diamond Beach. It's best to travel out of season (November to April) and visit lesser-known places like the Sturlungalaug hot spring.
Maya Bay, Thailand (Phi Phi Islands)
This iconic beach, popularized by the film DiCaprio The beachhas suffered ecological devastation caused by hordes of visitors and anchored boats. The coral reefs were destroyed and the beach was closed for years to allow it to be rebuilt. It has since reopened after a huge revitalization project, but they have introduced visitor caps.
Kyoto, Japan
The traditionally quiet streets of this ancient capital are now teeming with tourists in high season. The increase in litter from tourists has forced the city to install more trash cans to manage the crowds, and the peaceful geishas are often chased for photos. To alleviate the problem, Kyoto is considering special buses to popular sites to reduce overcrowding, and temples and shrines are encouraging visitors to come early in the morning.
Mount Everest, Nepal
The ultimate challenge for adventurers, Mount Everest has experienced overcrowding on the slopes and in base camps, leading to dangerous conditions, with trash and human excrement piling up on the mountain. Permits are now more difficult to obtain and stricter regulations are applied to climbers.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
THE Game of Thrones This effect brought an influx of fans to this medieval city. Crowded streets and cruise ship arrivals make it difficult to appreciate its beauty. The local government is taking steps to limit daily visitors and impose stricter cruise regulations.
Lisbon, Portugal
Short-term rentals now dominate the housing market, thanks to affordable flights and the digital nomad craze. This led to skyrocketing rents and the displacement of residents. Historic neighborhoods are flooded with tourists, which also makes them less charming. From public transport to waste management, everything is struggling to keep pace with this influx. I went there in December and it was still a bit like Disneyland. The Douro Valley and Madeira could be more favorable destinations at any time of the year.
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