Overtourism Rising: European Countries Hostile to Travelers Amid Local Grievances
Overtourism: Which European countries are becoming the most hostile to travellers?
Euronews
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Spain, Italy, and France are experiencing significant backlash against mass tourism, with residents voicing concerns over housing shortages and rising costs. A study by JB.com highlights anti-tourism protests across these countries, while Cyprus and Albania remain welcoming to visitors.
- 01Spain, Italy, and France are identified as the top three European countries facing strong anti-tourism sentiments.
- 02Spain saw a 3.4% increase in tourist numbers in early 2026, with expectations of a 7.1% rise in June.
- 03Over 40 cities in Spain have recorded anti-tourism protests, particularly in Catalonia and Barcelona.
- 04Italy has witnessed protests in major cities like Venice and Rome, with activists opposing short-term rental practices.
- 05France has seen protests in cities such as Marseille and Nice, alongside growing resistance to cruise ships.
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Tourism is a vital economic contributor for many European Union countries, yet it has sparked significant discontent among local communities. A recent study by JB.com highlights Spain, Italy, and France as the countries experiencing the most intense backlash against mass tourism. In Spain, tourist numbers rose by 3.4% in the first four months of 2026, with a projected increase of 7.1% in June. This surge has led to protests in over 40 cities, including Barcelona, where residents express concerns that tourism is harming their quality of life. Similarly, Italy has seen protests in cities like Venice and Rome, where activists have targeted short-term rental practices. France is also facing growing activism against cruise ships and mass tourism, with protests occurring in major cities such as Marseille and Nice. In contrast, Cyprus and Albania are noted for their welcoming attitudes towards tourists, lacking significant anti-tourism protests or regulatory pressures. The study analyzed various factors including protest intensity and tourist tax rates across 30 countries.
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Local communities are facing housing shortages and rising living costs due to the influx of tourists, leading to protests and activism.
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