France Joins Italy, Norway, Greece, Croatia, Spain and More In Europe’s Bold Response To Overcrowding as Tourists Face Price Hikes And New Regulations In 2026: What You Must Prepare For

Published on
January 29, 2026

In 2026, France joined Italy, Norway, Greece, Croatia, and Spain in a daring joint effort to address the escalating problem of overcrowding in well-known tourist locations. These countries are enacting new laws and raising prices in an effort to limit the number of tourists and protect their natural and cultural heritage as they struggle with the demands of mass tourism. Travelers will have to deal with increased prices and more stringent entry requirements in some of the most famous places in Europe. Travelers must prepare for these changes by making advance plans, modifying their budgets, and keeping up with any new travel restrictions in order to avoid disappointment.

As 2026 approaches, the landscape of European travel is set to shift dramatically. Overcrowded cities, rising costs, and increasing restrictions on tourists are changing the way we experience Europe. Major European destinations like France, Italy, Norway, Greece, Croatia, and Spain are introducing a variety of measures to combat the pressure of overtourism. From steeper entry fees to digital entry systems, travelers will need to plan smarter than ever to navigate the continent’s new travel reality. Here’s everything you need to know about how these changes will affect your 2026 trip.

France: A Pricey Welcome for Non-EU Tourists

France, long a dream destination for travelers, is the latest to adopt a two-tier pricing system for entry to its most popular attractions. Effective from the start of 2026, non-EU residents will pay significantly higher entry fees compared to EU citizens.

For example:

Tickets to the Palace of Versailles will now cost €35 ($60) for non-Europeans, a stark increase from the lower prices available to EU residents.Tickets for the iconic Louvre Museum will rise to €32 ($55).

These price hikes are designed to help fund security upgrades at these world-famous sites. While many tourists will undoubtedly be disappointed by the increased costs, these changes reflect the growing challenge of managing the massive influx of visitors in popular European cities.

Italy: Tourists Hit with New Taxes and Higher Costs

Italy, like many of its European counterparts, is grappling with the challenges of overtourism. Over the last few years, cities like Venice and Rome have implemented tourist taxes in an attempt to curb the flood of visitors. In 2026, this trend continues:

Venice has increased its day-trip fee to €10 for tourists visiting between April and July. This move aims to reduce the impact of day-trippers on the fragile city while generating funds for its preservation.In Rome, a €2 entry fee has been introduced for visiting the world-renowned Trevi Fountain, a landmark that has been swamped by selfie-seeking tourists in recent years.

But it’s not just the taxes that have risen. The cost of accommodation in cities like Rome and Milan is also seeing an increase. To combat the overwhelming number of tourists, many destinations in Italy are raising hotel taxes and introducing stricter regulations on short-term rental services like Airbnb.

Norway: Increasing Accommodation Taxes

Norway, a country known for its stunning fjords and tranquil beauty, is also seeing the effects of overtourism. As the influx of visitors to popular spots like Oslo and Bergen continues to rise, Norway has decided to take action. In 2026, travelers can expect to face:

Increased accommodation taxes across the country. This move is part of a broader strategy to manage tourism and maintain Norway’s natural beauty without overburdening local communities.

Tourists looking to experience Norway’s natural wonders will need to dig deeper into their pockets. However, this decision aims to ensure that the country’s stunning landscapes remain pristine and protected for future generations.

Greece: Tourism Management and Attraction Closures Due to Heatwaves

Greece’s tourism industry, particularly in Athens and the Greek Islands, has long been a major contributor to the country’s economy. However, the dramatic rise in temperatures during the summer months is causing some significant changes. Greece is among the countries most affected by the warming climate, and this is leading to:

Temporary closures of major attractions like the Acropolis and the Eiffel Tower during heatwaves in peak season. With the rising temperatures, the safety of both tourists and preservation of historical sites is a growing concern.

To counteract the negative effects of overtourism, the Greek government is also implementing regulations to limit the number of tourists visiting its most popular destinations. These measures include reducing cruise ships and limiting group sizes for certain attractions.

Croatia: Dubrovnik Leads the Way in Overtourism Management

Croatia, particularly the stunning city of Dubrovnik, has been struggling with the effects of overtourism in recent years. Known for its iconic Old Town, Dubrovnik was once a hidden gem. However, as its popularity soared, so did the number of visitors. In response, Croatia has introduced:

Visitor caps to limit the number of people allowed into Dubrovnik’s Old Town daily.Mandatory bookings for popular attractions like the Walls of Dubrovnik, ensuring that the influx of tourists doesn’t overwhelm the city’s infrastructure.Restrictions on cruise ships and taxis in Dubrovnik, aimed at reducing congestion in the city’s narrow streets.Even souvenir sellers and terrace seating have been regulated to prevent overcrowding.

Dubrovnik’s innovative measures are proving to be a model for other cities grappling with the same issues, helping to preserve its heritage while still welcoming tourists.

Spain: Tightening Airbnb Regulations and Price Hikes for Flights

Spain, with its diverse regions and vibrant cities, is also making significant changes to deal with overtourism. While Barcelona and Madrid continue to attract millions of visitors, the Spanish government has begun enforcing stricter measures, such as:

Limiting short-term rentals, especially in cities like Barcelona and Madrid, where Airbnb listings have caused concerns about housing availability for locals. In 2025, Spain removed 65,000 Airbnb listings to address the negative impact of short-term rentals on housing markets.Increased flight prices: The once-cheap budget flights across Europe are no longer as affordable. In September 2025, a flight from Madrid to Istanbul cost nearly $500, a far cry from the £40 fares that once made European travel so accessible.

Spain’s measures are aimed at ensuring that its cities remain livable for residents while still offering a high-quality experience for travelers.

The Rise of Entry Fees and New Immigration Rules for Non-EU Travelers

As the European Union works to better manage the influx of tourists, one of the most significant changes in 2026 will be the introduction of new immigration rules and digital entry systems:

ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) will be fully implemented by the end of 2026. Non-EU visitors, such as Australians, will be required to pay a €20 ($35) fee to enter the Schengen Zone and fill out an online application form with biometric data.France has also introduced a new digital entry system, where travelers will provide biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial recognition, upon arrival. This measure aims to streamline immigration processes and enhance security.

This move reflects a growing trend in Europe to monitor and regulate the flow of visitors more effectively, ensuring smoother experiences for tourists and protecting the integrity of local infrastructures.

The Impact on Budget Airlines

No-frills carriers like Ryanair and EasyJet have long been the go-to for travelers seeking affordable flights around Europe. However, budget airline fares are no longer as cheap as they once were. As airlines continue to charge for baggage, seat selection, and other add-ons, the allure of bargain flights is fading. Travelers will likely experience:

Higher airfares for short-haul flights as basic fares increase and additional costs add up. For example, flights from Madrid to Istanbul that once cost £40 now top $500.What Does This All Mean for 2026 Travelers?

For anyone planning to visit Europe in 2026, it’s clear that travel will look very different. The introduction of new taxes, higher fees, and stricter regulations will create a more expensive and sometimes more complicated travel experience. However, these measures are crucial in managing the burden of overtourism and ensuring that Europe’s most beloved destinations can withstand the pressures of mass tourism.

To make the most of your European vacation in 2026, be prepared for:

Higher costs for attractions, accommodation, and flights.Stricter entry requirements and new digital entry systems.Limited access to popular sites due to visitor caps and restrictions.Planning ahead for bookings and attractions to avoid long waits and overcrowding.

Despite these challenges, Europe remains a captivating destination. But with the new measures in place, travelers will need to be smarter, more organized, and ready to embrace a new way of experiencing the continent.

In 2026, France, Italy, Norway, Greece, Croatia, Spain, and many other European nations will usher in a new era of tourism regulation. While these changes may make traveling more expensive and less convenient, they are essential to managing the pressures of overtourism. As a result, tourists will need to adjust their expectations, plan more carefully, and be prepared for a slightly different kind of European vacation—one that emphasizes sustainability, responsible travel, and the preservation of Europe’s unique cultural and natural heritage.

In 2026, France joins Italy, Greece, Spain, and others in raising prices and imposing new regulations to combat overcrowding, aiming to preserve their cultural heritage and manage tourism more sustainably. Travelers must prepare for higher costs and stricter access rules in popular destinations.

With these new measures in place, travelers can still enjoy everything Europe has to offer, but they’ll need to be more proactive in their planning. Here’s everything you need to know—prepare for the future of European travel.