Europe is experiencing an unprecedented surge in tourism this summer, with record numbers of visitors flocking to popular cities, leading to important overcrowding and a decline in the quality of experiance for both tourists and locals.This phenomenon is transforming once-picturesque streets into chaotic, congested hotspots.
The issue of overtourism is particularly acute in cities like Rome and Athens, where videos circulating online depict locals and visitors alike struggling to navigate packed squares and endure lengthy queues. The sheer volume of tourists has led to a palpable sense of being overwhelmed, with one visitor to rome describing the experience as being “part of one big sweaty herd.” Similarly, in Athens, the density of crowds makes it tough for visitors to move freely and appreciate the city’s renowned ancient ruins and historic streets.
Las Ramblas is a promenade that runs for more than a kilometre through central Barcelona, is packed with shops, eateries, and attractions” class=”blkBorder img-share” style=”max-width:100%” loading=”lazy” /> Las Ramblas is a promenade that runs for more than a kilometre through central Barcelona, is packed with shops, eateries, and attractions
The sentiment of being overwhelmed by tourist numbers is echoed in reviews of other popular European destinations. Las Ramblas in Barcelona, a kilometre-long promenade known for its shops, eateries, and attractions, is a prime example of a site struggling with excessive visitor numbers, as indicated by 826 reviews.
With heavy foot traffic comes an overwhelming number of souvenir shops and complete lack of authenticity on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, says Nomad eSim
Rounding out the top five most affected locations are Checkpoint Charlie in Germany, a significant site from the Cold War era, and Edinburgh’s Royal mile. The Royal Mile in the Scottish capital has faced criticism for its proliferation of souvenir shops, which some argue detract from the area’s authenticity due to the high volume of foot traffic. One review from a local in Edinburgh expressed frustration, stating, “Bring back the days when locals coudl live and work in the area without locusts like plagues of tourists!”
This surge in tourism, frequently enough driven by “selfie-hunting holidaymakers,” is occurring despite growing anti-tourism sentiments and protests in various locations across Europe. The sheer volume of visitors is impacting the ability of residents to live and work in their own cities and diminishing the quality of the travel experience for many.
