Published on
August 12, 2025
With summer comes the hoards of tourists that flood in many beloved hotspots like Thailand, Croatia and Greece which makes it delightfully hard to have a peaceful vacation. It increases costs, wait times and a lack of resources while also adding to the local environmental burden and resentment. If you want to escape from all the chaos and enjoy a relaxing break there are plenty of other ways that will give you a great experience including alternative destinations. Taking the path less travelled, you get a chance to enjoy wonderful hidden gems that offer safety and peace helping you maintain your summer vacation spirit without getting caught in crowds.
Summer travel has long been the time to hit the road in search of never-before-seen places and unforgettable memories, yet as concerns over overtourism continue to escalate, finding a tranquil, crowd-free spot can be as challenging than willing yourself back into sightly brown jeans. Indeed, a recent survey of 2,500 world travelers by the life saving service Global Rescue found that 73% are worried as about areas becoming overrun, with over half actually shunning runs on countries such as France and Spain in favor of superior climes and fewer crowds. Well, how do you move through the busy summer season and still make your time safe as well as enjoyable? So, from why you have to be careful in popular spots, where you should go instead andto some off the beaten path recommendations that will make your trip fabulous and sanity intact this article covers it all.
Are Crowded Summer Travel Destinations More Dangerous?
Traveling to popular, overcrowded destinations may be more dangerous than you think. Various factors such as rising political instability, environmental issues, and higher crime rates can expose travelers to potential dangers. According to Frank Harrison, regional security director for the Americas at World Travel Protection, even though crowded destinations may appear safe, travelers should stay alert and plan their trips with extra care. Increased tourist numbers often put strain on local resources, leading to a rise in petty crimes, such as pickpocketing and scams.
Aside from safety concerns, mass tourism brings about a less-than-ideal experience. In some destinations, the resentment against tourists has been growing, with locals protesting the overwhelming number of visitors. The environmental degradation caused by overtourism is also significant, with damage to fragile ecosystems, increased pollution, and a strain on local infrastructure.
Popular Destinations to Avoid This Summer
Certain destinations are simply too crowded for comfort during the summer months. Here’s a look at some of the places experts advise you to avoid, along with alternative recommendations:
1. Thailand
Thailand has long been a hotspot for budget-conscious travelers seeking sun and sand. However, islands like Phuket, Pattaya, and Krabi are now overwhelmed with tourists. Prices have inflated, pollution has worsened, and locals are facing challenges in maintaining their quality of life due to overcrowding. As travel adviser Alonso Marly explains, these areas are no longer the tranquil retreats they once were.
Alternatives: Visit Chiang Mai for a quieter, more authentic Thai experience. The northern city offers a calm atmosphere, beautiful temples, and rich culture. Alternatively, head to Bangkok for a bustling urban environment with more room and excellent shopping options.
2. Croatia
Dubrovnik, renowned for its remarkable medieval buildings and its role in “Game of Thrones,” has emerged as one of Europe’s most congested tourist hotspots. Despite being a city with only 41,000 residents, Dubrovnik often faces traffic jams, long lines, and even the inability to move around during peak times.
Alternatives: Explore Split, a historic city with fewer crowds, or visit Zagreb, a charming inland city offering a more relaxed Croatian experience without the masses.
3. Greece
The Greek islands, especially Santorini, have been overwhelmed with tourists seeking their iconic blue-domed churches and whitewashed buildings. Santorini alone attracts over 3.4 million visitors each year, leading to protests from locals who are unable to cope with the demand.
Alternatives: Consider Athens or Thessaloniki for a slightly less crowded but still authentic Greek experience. These cities are rich in culture and history, with fewer tourists crowding the streets.
4. Europe’s Major Cities
Cities like Amsterdam, Barcelona, Lisbon, and Venice have become synonymous with overcrowding. Local residents have voiced their frustration with the increased pressure on housing and resources caused by mass tourism. The addition of extreme heat waves in recent years has made the situation even more unbearable.
Alternatives: Instead of the popular European hotspots, venture to Berlin, Helsinki, or even Stockholm, where you’ll find a calmer atmosphere and fewer tourists. These cities offer vibrant cultural scenes and beautiful architecture without the overwhelming crowds.
Where to Go Instead: Safer and Quieter Destinations
While some places are experiencing overtourism to the point of unsustainability, there are plenty of destinations that remain relatively uncrowded and safe for travel. John Gobbels, chief operating officer of Medjet, advises travelers to choose destinations marked as Level 1 or Level 2 by the U.S. State Department Travel Advisory system. These locations have a track record of being relatively safe for tourists, with fewer risks associated with political unrest or natural disasters.
Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection (BHTP) publishes a yearly report identifying the safest travel destinations, evaluating factors such as security risks, environmental concerns, and flight disruptions. According to the 2025 report, some of the safest and least crowded destinations include:
Iceland: Known for its stunning natural landscapes and isolation, Iceland remains one of the safest destinations for travelers looking for a peaceful retreat.Australia: With its winter season in full swing, Australia offers a quieter, low-season experience—especially in cities like Melbourne or Sydney.Canada: A vast country with diverse offerings, Canada remains an excellent choice for travelers seeking less crowded, nature-focused vacations.New Zealand: Like its neighbor Australia, New Zealand is entering its winter season, making it the perfect time to visit for those who prefer a tranquil environment.Switzerland: While expensive, Switzerland is a safe bet for those who want to enjoy breathtaking mountain views without being surrounded by throngs of tourists.Ireland: Known for its charming landscapes and welcoming locals, Ireland offers a more relaxed experience compared to its European counterparts.Be a Contrarian: Off-the-Beaten-Path Alternatives
The key to avoiding crowded destinations is simple: be a contrarian. When everyone else is flocking to popular tourist spots, why not venture off the beaten path? Instead of heading to the well-trodden routes, explore lesser-known cities and towns that offer authentic experiences without the chaos.
For instance, I will be traveling through Europe this summer, but my itinerary focuses on places that remain calm even during peak season. Some of the destinations on my list include Reykjavik, Prague, Luxembourg, Munich, and Amykles, Greece—my ancestral hometown, which remains relatively untouched by mass tourism. These destinations offer the charm of Europe without the crowds, providing a more enjoyable and safer vacation.
It can feel like the most obvious choice to go to a crowded holiday destination in this summer but it also comes with some major disadvantages. Potential safety concerns, prices points alike to franchises, some faddish but not unimportant environmental issues and a bit of the punk-rock DIY: these are only a few reasons why you should avoid the mainstream burger. Knowing this, you can research quieter places in popular countries or just explore new destinations entirely and still have an equally peaceful, safe, and overall better trip.
This summer, the Thailand, Croatia and Greece tourist destinations are swollen above normal, making travel more stressful and less enjoyable. From exorbitant pricing and hours-long lines to even plain old environmental strain, here are some very good reasons why you might want to skip them. —HIGH PRICES HIGH LINES AND; ENVIRONMENTAL STRAIN High prices could be the least of your problems, however every place below has its own host of troubles. Look for non-bustling options that allow unique opportunities and fewer people resulting in a better vacation experience.
So with that in mind, the next time you plan a vacation realize it isn’t just about getting away from people; its about seeking those places where one can experience true discovery and serenity. Do your research and pick destinations that match, or at least marginally relate to, what you want out of travel while maintaining a concern for health and safety. Safe travels!
