Traveling is all about exploring new places, snapping Insta-worthy shots, and soaking in the culture. But in some parts of the world, overtourism is creating real issues for locals. Here’s a rundown of ten popular destinations feeling the pinch of peak tourism that might make you rethink your next vacation spot.
Spain: Barcelona’s Crowded Beaches and Balearic Protests
Locals in Barcelona and the Balearic Islands have staged protests against the sheer number of visitors, citing rising rent prices and crowded public spaces. With over 30 million visitors each year, citizens often find themselves squeezed out of their own neighborhoods. While the economy loves the tourism boost, the residents aren’t always thrilled with the crowds.
Italy: Venice’s Gondola Traffic and Rome’s Crumbling Ruins
The tourist crowd can be overwhelming in Venice. Over 20 million visitors flood in annually, leaving behind so much wear and tear that the city now limits cruise ship access to protect its delicate infrastructure. In Rome, people face a different struggle—preserving ancient monuments that can’t keep up with millions of eager tourists.
Iceland: Fragile Landscapes and Soaring Tourism Numbers
The small island nation’s natural attractions are feeling the wear and tear. Fragile volcanic sites and popular spots like the Blue Lagoon have seen erosion, damage, and litter. With a tourist-to-local ratio nearing 7:1, Iceland is setting up protected areas and hiking regulations to ensure travelers don’t love the land too much.
Thailand: Islands Closed to Heal After Tourist Impact
Maya Bay, once a picture-perfect place, became so scruffy that it had to close for four years to recover from environmental damage. Other places like Phuket and Bangkok also had to implement seasonal restrictions to preserve their beautiful coastlines and marine life. It’s paradise—but paradise with limits.
Japan: Kyoto’s Tourist Overload and Traditional Losses
Visitors in Kyoto often crowd out locals, especially during cherry blossom season. Some areas have implemented “quiet zones” to preserve the peace that’s central to Japanese culture. With initiatives to divert tourists to lesser-known areas, Japan hopes to keep Kyoto’s charm alive without stressing the residents or diluting the experience.
Greece: Mykonos and Santorini’s Seasonal Overload
Come summer, and the locals find themselves managing the madness of massive tourist numbers in Mykonos and Santorini. Roads get clogged, beaches become packed, and water can run scarce. To combat the crunch, Greece has started curbing cruise ship arrivals and motivating travelers to explore other islands to help balance the load.
New Zealand: Crowded Hobbiton and Environmental Strains
Thanks to “Lord of the Rings,” New Zealand’s green hills and dramatic scenery became a trekking dream. But the country’s population of just 5 million can’t keep up with the millions who come every year. Infrastructure struggles to keep up in small towns like Hobbiton. New Zealand is now prioritizing eco-friendly policies to protect itself from overuse.
Indonesia: Bali’s Water Woes and Trash Troubles
In Bali, water shortages and waste management struggles have become routine as millions pour in. With citizens at risk of losing traditional practices, Bali has launched campaigns urging tourists to respect local culture and help preserve its fragile resources. It’s the top definition for adventurers—but only if the balance is maintained.
France: Paris’s Cramped Quarters and Riviera’s High Costs
Paris isn’t just crowded during the summer—its iconic attractions see long lines and shoulder-to-shoulder crowds year-round. Meanwhile, the Côte d’Azur’s glitz and glamor bring in waves of seasonal visitors, driving up living costs for locals. France is experimenting with measures like ticketed time slots to keep things running smoothly.
Mexico: Tulum’s Environmental Pressures and Local Displacement
Tulum was a sleepy beach town, but it’s not hidden anymore. And with this new fame came overcrowding, environmental strain, and rising housing costs. Coral reefs are at risk from pollutants; the community has had to adapt to the boom, and Tulum is still grappling to find the balance.
