Europe's most sought-after holiday destinations are facing unprecedented chaos as overcrowded streets and anti-tourism protests disrupt the summer travel season. Videos circulating online show packed thoroughfares, endless queues, and frustrated locals in Italy and Greece, two of the continent's top tourist hotspots.
Tourist Overload in Italy and Greece
Iconic locations such as Venice, Rome, Santorini, and Mykonos are groaning under the weight of record-breaking visitor numbers. Streets once admired for their beauty now resemble bustling urban centres, with tourists jostling for space and locals growing increasingly resentful.
Anti-Tourism Protests Escalate
Fed up with the overwhelming influx, residents in several cities have organised protests demanding stricter regulations on tourism. Demonstrators argue that unchecked visitor numbers are eroding their quality of life, driving up living costs, and damaging cultural heritage.
The Strain on Infrastructure
Public transport, restaurants, and attractions are buckling under the pressure, leading to long waits and deteriorating experiences for travellers. Authorities are scrambling to implement crowd-control measures, but critics say more decisive action is needed to preserve these destinations.
What’s Next for Europe’s Tourism Industry?
As the backlash grows, experts warn that without sustainable tourism policies, Europe’s beloved holiday spots risk losing their charm—and their appeal to visitors. Will this summer mark a turning point for how mass tourism is managed?
