Top 15 Destinations to Avoid for Your Next Holiday Due to Overtourism

Planning your dream vacation is exciting, but there’s a growing issue in recent years that can turn popular destinations into crowded and less enjoyable spots. It’s called overtourism, and it’s when too many tourists visit a place, harming the environment, local culture, and residents’ quality of life.

In this guide, we’ll talk about what overtourism is and share a list of 15 destinations to reconsider for your next vacation. We’ll also suggest alternative places that offer a better and more sustainable travel experience.

Understanding Overtourism

Before we dive into the list, let’s understand what overtourism means and why it’s a concern.

What Is Overtourism?

Overtourism happens when too many tourists visit a place, damaging the environment, culture, and locals’ well-being. It’s not just about the number of tourists but also about how they affect specific areas and strain local resources.

The Impact of Overtourism

Overtourism can cause problems like:

• Environmental Damage: Crowds harm natural places, leading to pollution and habitat destruction.
• Cultural Changes: Excessive tourism can change local cultures as places cater more to tourists, losing their authentic feel.
• Infrastructure Issues: Too many visitors can strain local services, causing traffic jams and inadequate waste management.
• Increased Costs: Overtourism can make things more expensive for both tourists and residents.

Now, let’s look at 15 destinations worldwide struggling with overtourism and why they’re on our list.

Top 15 Destinations to Avoid Due to Overtourism

1. Phuket, Thailand: Overcrowded beaches and nightlife. Consider quieter Thai islands like Koh Tao or Koh Chang.
2. Pattaya, Thailand: Bustling streets. Explore nearby Hua Hin for a calmer experience.
3. Krabi, Thailand: Beautiful cliffs and clear waters. Try the less-known province of Trang for tranquility.
4. Heraklion, Crete, Greece: Overcrowded capital. Visit Chania or Matala for a quieter time.
5. Rhodes, Greece: Historical site struggling with crowds. Discover Symi or Karpathos in the same region.
6. Dubrovnik, Croatia: Overcrowded due to Game of Thrones fame. Try Šibenik or Vis for an authentic experience.
7. Venice, Italy: Iconic canals draw huge crowds. Explore Bologna or Cinque Terre for a genuine Italian vibe.
8. Bruges, Belgium: Crowded canals. Choose Ghent for a quieter Belgian experience.
9. Barcelona, Spain: Overcrowded streets. Explore Tarragona or Cadaqués along the Costa Brava.
10. Santorini, Greece: Famous for sunsets but crowded. Try Naxos or Milos for a more relaxed Greek island experience.
11. Dubai, UAE: Glitzy but crowded. Discover Sharjah’s heritage or Ras Al Khaimah’s natural beauty.
12. Machu Picchu, Peru: Bucket-list site with strict quotas. Hike to Choquequirao for a less crowded experience.
13. Kyoto, Japan: Popular temples during cherry blossom season. Explore Kanazawa for a quieter taste of Japanese culture.
14. Amsterdam, Netherlands: Famous canals but crowded. Visit Utrecht or Haarlem for a more relaxed vibe.
15. Cinque Terre, Italy: Stunning but crowded coastal villages. Explore Puglia in southern Italy for a similar coastal experience without the crowds.

Why These Destinations Face Overtourism

Understanding why these places are struggling with overtourism is essential. Common reasons include:

• Iconic Attractions: Famous landmarks draw tourists, causing overcrowding.
• Media and Pop Culture: Films, TV shows, or social media influencers can attract visitors.
• Cruise Tourism: Cruise ships flood small places, overwhelming resources.
• Lack of Regulation: Poor oversight leads to unchecked tourism.
• Affordable Travel: Travel is more accessible, contributing to the rise in tourism.

Responsible Choices

Despite overtourism challenges, responsible travel choices can make a difference. Consider:

• Off-Peak Travel: Visit popular destinations during quieter times.
• Explore Lesser-Known Spots: Discover hidden gems for unique experiences.
• Respect Local Culture: Engage respectfully with local customs and traditions.
• Support Sustainable Tourism: Choose eco-friendly accommodations and tour operators.
• Reduce Environmental Impact: Minimize waste and conserve resources.
• Share the Wealth: Spend money at local businesses to benefit the community.

By making responsible choices, we can help preserve the beauty and authenticity of these cherished places while ensuring a positive travel experience for all.