Traveling to Europe in 2025? What to know about overtourism

A record-breaking surge in global tourism is forcing popular European destinations to implement stricter visitor limits for 2025, as cities struggle with what experts call "overtourism."

The tourism boom, rather than leveling off after pandemic restrictions lifted, continues to accelerate. The Associated Press reported the surge stems from ongoing revenge travel, digital nomad programs and golden visas that allow foreign investors extended stays.

How overtourism became a global crisis

The United Nations tourism agency reported that by March 2024, more than 285 million tourists had traveled internationally - marking a 20% increase from 2023's first quarter, the Associated Press reported. This surge made 2024 the first year to exceed pre-pandemic tourism records.

The boom stems from revenge travel, digital nomad campaigns and golden visas, which grant extended stays to foreign investors. These factors helped drive housing prices higher and strain local services, according to the Associated Press.

In China and India, experts note crowded places are more socially accepted, while European cities struggle with cultural expectations around personal space and exclusivity, the World Trade Organization reported.

Where protests are changing tourism rules

Barcelona residents sprayed tourists with water guns last summer while holding "Go Home" banners, Forbes reported. The city removed a bus route from tourist maps after overcrowding at Park Güell.

In Sintra, Portugal, traffic jams around historic sites led residents to form QSintra. "Not to be able to get an ambulance or to not be able to get my groceries is a rich people problem?" resident Matthew Bedell told the Associated Press.

Which cities are adding visitor limits

Pompeii archaeological park now limits daily visitors to 20,000 people, park director Gabriel Zuchtriegel announced. The cap aims to protect the UNESCO World Heritage site after a single day saw more than 36,000 visitors.

Venice plans to expand its entry fee system throughout 2025. The Greek government will restrict cruise ships at popular islands, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced.

Why environmental concerns matter

Local infrastructure struggles to handle tourism demands. Santorini banned construction amid water shortage fears, while water scarcity reduced wine production by 50% on the island, Forbes reported.

Amsterdam has banned new hotels except on a one-out, one-in basis, requiring proof of sustainable improvements over previous establishments.

What travelers need to know before booking Europe in 2025

Tourist restrictions aren't the only changes facing travelers to Europe next year. Starting in mid-2025, U.S. travelers must apply for ETIAS authorization before visiting 30 European countries, officials announced.

The online application costs €7 (about $7.47) and remains valid for three years or until the passport expires. Travelers age 70 and older can apply for free.

The European Union designed ETIAS to enhance border security while streamlining entry for approved travelers. Officials recommend applying well before departure to avoid complications, as some applications may require additional documentation.

The Source
 Information from Associated Press reporting on 2024 overtourism impacts, Fodor's 2025 "No List," United Nations World Tourism Organization data, Forbes reporting and statements from European government officials and tourism authorities. 
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