Published on
November 17, 2025
As overtourism intensifies, destinations around the world, including Turkey, Spain, Croatia, Japan, and others, are taking decisive action to address the growing anti-tourism sentiment among locals. Rising numbers of visitors have led to overcrowded streets, escalating living costs, and overwhelmed infrastructure, prompting protests and frustration from residents. In response, these countries are introducing a range of measures—from tourist fees and stricter regulations to public awareness campaigns—to strike a balance between maintaining the economic benefits of tourism and safeguarding the interests of their local communities. As these nations navigate the challenges of mass tourism, they aim to protect their cultural heritage, ensure sustainable visitor management, and prioritize the well-being of their citizens.
Tourism has traditionally served as a cornerstone of many economies, but growing concerns about its impact on local life are reshaping how popular destinations approach mass visitation. As tourists flood into once-idyllic cities and regions, the delicate balance between economic benefits and residents’ quality of life is increasingly strained. Here’s a snapshot of how countries are navigating the challenges posed by overtourism and political unrest.
Spain’s Anti-Tourism Movement: A Response to Rising Visitor Numbers
In Spain, the surge in tourism has sparked widespread dissatisfaction. In July 2024, thousands gathered in Barcelona to voice their concerns, marching down La Rambla with banners like “Tourism kills the city” and “Tourists go home.” The country saw 42.5 million visitors in just the first half of 2024, a significant rise from previous years. This influx has led to a strain on local infrastructure and soaring housing costs, prompting protests in other cities like Cadiz and Lanzarote. Local communities are now demanding that tourism be managed in a way that doesn’t compromise their daily lives and living conditions.
Amsterdam’s Government-Backed Campaign: Aimed at British Party Tourists
Amsterdam has taken a more direct approach to address the rising number of disruptive tourists. In 2024, the city government launched the “Stay Away” campaign, specifically targeting British partygoers. The campaign showcased unruly tourists being fined or arrested for bad behavior, but its effectiveness in reducing rowdy visitors was limited. In response, Amsterdam intensified its efforts with the “Amsterdam Rules” survey to manage tourist conduct more effectively. This effort highlights a growing trend of destinations attempting to take control of tourist behavior to maintain the city’s character and livability.
Japan’s Struggle with Overtourism: Kyoto’s Response to Overcrowding
Japan has seen an unprecedented rise in international visitors, with a record 36.87 million tourists in 2024. However, this boom has led to significant challenges in cities like Kyoto, where the population of 1.5 million residents is overwhelmed by tourists. In response, Kyoto introduced measures to combat overtourism, such as banning tourists from private alleys in the Gion district. These actions reflect a broader recognition that Japan must protect its cultural heritage and the daily lives of its residents, even as tourism remains a vital part of its economy.
Venice’s New Tourist Fee: An Effort to Protect the City’s Heritage
Venice, long a symbol of Europe’s struggles with mass tourism, introduced a €5 fee for day-trippers in 2024. This fee is part of broader efforts to reduce the strain on the city’s infrastructure and protect its cultural heritage. In addition, large cruise ships were banned from the city center in 2021 after years of protests. While controversial, these measures signal Venice’s commitment to managing tourism in a way that preserves its unique identity and reduces environmental and social pressure on the city.
Turkey’s Political Uncertainty: A Deterrent to Travel
Turkey, once a popular destination for cultural exploration and seaside retreats, has faced increasing political instability. In cities like Istanbul, ongoing protests and unrest have raised concerns about safety, leading to travel disruptions. Political tensions, combined with the risk of violence and strict government measures, have made Turkey a less appealing option for many international visitors. As the country faces internal strife, travelers are now looking to more politically stable destinations.
Croatia’s Crackdown on Misbehaving Tourists
In Croatia, particularly in Split, local authorities have introduced hefty fines for disruptive tourist behavior. Acts such as public urination, climbing on monuments, or disturbing public peace now carry fines of up to €300. This crackdown follows complaints from locals about tourists’ lack of respect for cultural landmarks and public spaces. While not as severe as in other destinations, Croatia’s response signals growing frustration with the impact of tourism on the quality of life for residents.
Iran’s Complex Political Climate: A Barrier to Tourism Growth
Iran boasts rich cultural and natural landscapes, yet its political climate presents a significant deterrent to international tourists. Tensions with Western countries and the potential for sudden political unrest have discouraged many from visiting. Despite the famous hospitality of its people, the broader political atmosphere complicates travel, making Iran a less attractive destination for many international visitors.
North Korea’s Strict Tourist Regulations
North Korea remains one of the most tightly controlled and isolated destinations in the world. Visitors face strict surveillance, with limitations on where they can go and what they can photograph. The country’s rigid control over tourists, compounded by a ban on US citizens traveling there, makes it a challenging destination for those seeking freedom and flexibility in their travel experiences.
Russia’s Geopolitical Tensions and Tourism Barriers
Russia’s vast history and landscapes hold significant appeal for tourists, but its complex bureaucratic hurdles and ongoing geopolitical tensions make it a daunting destination. Strict visa requirements and a political climate that often conflicts with Western nations have deterred many travelers. The country’s tense international relations make it increasingly difficult for tourists to navigate the travel landscape.
Turkey, along with Spain, Croatia, Japan, and other popular destinations, is responding to rising anti-tourism sentiment by implementing measures to balance the economic benefits of tourism with local needs and well-being.
A Shifting Global Tourism Landscape
Tourism is no longer an unquestioned asset for many destinations. As global tensions rise and overtourism continues to strain local communities, countries are reassessing how to balance the need for tourism revenue with the demands of preserving local life and culture. Whether through fees, restrictions, or government-led campaigns, destinations around the world are adjusting their approaches to ensure that tourism doesn’t come at the expense of their residents’ well-being. As these challenges grow, the tourism landscape is bound to continue evolving.
