12 Places Suffering from Overtourism, and 12 Alternatives to Visit Instead
These destinations are super-popular, but they need a break
Crowds have become the norm at Machu Picchu | Matyas Rehak / Shutterstock
The rise of budget airlines, social media-fueled wanderlust, and a growing global middle class has brought the world closer together than ever before. But this accessibility has also given rise to overtourism, a phenomenon where destinations become overrun with visitors, causing environmental damage, cultural dilution, and a poorer experience for both tourists and locals.
While travel is a beautiful privilege, responsible exploration is key to preserving the places we love. Here’s a look at 12 stunning destinations suffering from overtourism—and the alternatives that offer similar magic, minus the crowds.
1. Venice, Italy
Venice is limiting tourists, specifically cruise ships, in an attempt to stop physical damage | Bumble Dee / Shutterstock
The floating city, with its labyrinth of canals and historic charm, has long been a bucket-list destination. But with more than 20 million visitors annually, Venice is drowning in mass tourism. Cruise ships clog the Grand Canal, rising tides threaten its foundations, and narrow alleyways become impassable in peak season.
The sheer volume of visitors puts immense pressure on local infrastructure, with many historic buildings deteriorating faster than they can be restored. Local Venetians are being pushed out, as rising rental prices cater more to tourists than to long-time residents, leading to a dwindling local population. Gondola rides, once a peaceful experience, are now part of a congested waterway where navigating through selfie-snapping tourists has become a challenge.
Even Venice’s renowned art and cultural festivals, such as the Biennale and Carnival, have seen shifts in atmosphere due to overwhelming crowds, making it harder to truly appreciate the city’s artistic legacy. Environmental concerns are mounting as well, with excess tourism exacerbating the already fragile lagoon ecosystem, leading to government-imposed measures such as entry fees for day-trippers and restrictions on large cruise ships docking near the city center.
Where to Go Instead: Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana’s Old Town, lined with Baroque facades and crisscrossed by the emerald-green Ljubljanica River, offers a similarly romantic atmosphere without the overwhelming crowds. The city prioritizes sustainability—cars are banned in the historic center, and cycling is encouraged, making it a pedestrian-friendly paradise.
Take a boat ride under picturesque bridges, sip coffee at a riverside café, and explore the castle perched above the city, all while enjoying a relaxed pace of life. Unlike Venice, Ljubljana remains undiscovered by the mass tourism machine, allowing for a deeper and more authentic connection to the local culture. The city boasts a thriving arts scene, with museums, galleries, and open-air performances regularly captivating visitors. Ljubljana is also a haven for food lovers, with bustling farmers’ markets and innovative restaurants putting a fresh, modern spin on Slovenian cuisine.
The surrounding countryside offers even more adventure, from Lake Bled’s fairy-tale setting to the stunning caves of Postojna and Škocjan. A visit to Ljubljana provides all the charm and beauty of a classic European city while ensuring a more mindful, immersive travel experience away from the chaos of Venice.
2. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona’s beaches, streets and tourist attractions are oversubscribed, to the point of action by locals | guss.95 / Shutterstock
Barcelona’s beaches, Gaudí’s masterpieces, and vibrant nightlife have made it one of Europe’s most visited cities. But mass tourism has priced out locals, packed Las Ramblas with visitors, and sparked anti-tourist protests. Housing costs have soared, forcing many residents out of the city center, and historic neighborhoods have been overrun with souvenir shops and fast-food outlets catering to tourists.
Popular landmarks like Park Güell and La Sagrada Familia often have long lines, making it nearly impossible to enjoy their architectural beauty in peace. Even the famed Barceloneta beach, once a serene escape, is now jam-packed with visitors, making it hard to find even a small patch of sand. The city’s vibrant cultural scene, once filled with local artisans and family-run businesses, is being diluted by the mass influx of tourists looking for quick thrills rather than authentic experiences. Frustrated locals have responded with graffiti messages reading “Tourists go home,” highlighting the growing tensions between residents and visitors.
Where to Go Instead: Valencia, Spain
Just down the coast, Valencia boasts modernist architecture, sandy beaches, and a thriving food scene, all without Barcelona’s suffocating crowds. The futuristic City of Arts and Sciences is a masterpiece of contemporary design, offering an awe-inspiring mix of cultural and scientific attractions. For those who crave the charm of old Spain, the historic El Carmen neighborhood is a maze of narrow alleyways, colorful street art, and hidden courtyards.
Unlike Barcelona, Valencia’s beaches remain refreshingly spacious, allowing visitors to enjoy golden sands and crystal-clear waters without battling for space. The city is also the birthplace of paella, and visitors can indulge in the most authentic version of this iconic dish at beachside restaurants where the tradition is still honored.
Valencia’s vibrant nightlife offers everything from intimate flamenco performances to bustling rooftop bars, all at a pace that feels more local than tourist-driven. With its blend of history, modernity, and laid-back Mediterranean vibes, Valencia provides all the allure of Barcelona without the overwhelming crowds.
3. Bali, Indonesia
Bali’s once serene spots see a constant stream of tourists | JRP Studio / Shutterstock
Once a tropical paradise, Bali now contends with traffic congestion, plastic-choked beaches, and overstretched resources. The island’s appeal has led to unsustainable growth, harming local culture and the environment.
The influx of millions of tourists each year has put extreme pressure on Bali’s infrastructure, with overdeveloped coastal areas, worsening air pollution from motorbike congestion, and rising waste problems as plastic litters beaches and clogs waterways. Popular spots like Kuta and Seminyak are now overcrowded, with rows of beach clubs and nightclubs replacing the peaceful ambiance Bali was once known for.
Even the island’s spiritual core is suffering, with sacred temples flooded by tour groups, disrupting religious ceremonies and reducing these cultural treasures to mere Instagram backdrops. The increasing presence of luxury resorts has also led to land disputes, as developers seek to expand, often at the expense of local farming communities.
Where to Go Instead: Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Raja Ampat’s infrastructure isn’t as well-developed, but that’s a good thing | sutirta budiman / Shutterstock
For an unspoiled paradise, head to Raja Ampat, an archipelago of more than 1,500 islands boasting some of the most biodiverse waters in the world. Here, coral reefs remain pristine, tourism is low-impact, and the natural beauty is untouched. Snorkel in crystal-clear lagoons, trek through rainforests, and stay in eco-friendly overwater bungalows.
Unlike Bali, which struggles with overcrowding, Raja Ampat remains a remote and serene retreat. Its protected marine parks ensure sustainable tourism, with only a limited number of visitors allowed at a time. The local Papuan communities continue to practice traditional fishing and conservation techniques, creating a balance between tourism and preservation.
The diving and snorkeling here are unparalleled, offering sightings of manta rays, pygmy seahorses, and vibrant coral gardens untouched by mass tourism. Visitors can also hike limestone cliffs for panoramic views, explore caves filled with ancient petroglyphs, and experience the warmth of local hospitality in traditional homestays. With its off-the-beaten-path charm, Raja Ampat offers a true escape
4. Santorini, Greece
Crowds gather to watch sunset from Oia castle – damaging historic buildings in the process | Melinda Nagy / Shutterstock
With its whitewashed villages and legendary sunsets, Santorini draws millions of tourists each year, overwhelming its infrastructure and turning once-idyllic villages into selfie battlegrounds.
The narrow streets of Oia, once tranquil and full of local charm, are now overrun with eager visitors vying for the perfect Instagram shot. Sunset viewpoints, particularly the iconic castle ruins, become impassable by evening, with crowds packed shoulder-to-shoulder, cameras in hand.
Overdevelopment has also taken a toll—traditional homes have been turned into expensive boutique hotels, forcing many locals out, while restaurants cater more to tourists than preserving authentic Greek flavors. Meanwhile, cruise ships dump thousands of visitors onto the island each day, making it increasingly difficult to experience Santorini’s legendary beauty in peace.
Where to Go Instead: Milos, Greece
Milos offers the same white villages and stunning bays without the crowds | Aerial-motion / Shutterstock
Milos offers the same Cycladic charm, volcanic beaches, and striking blue waters, but with far fewer tourists. This hidden gem boasts over 70 beaches, each unique—Sarakiniko’s otherworldly white rock formations provide an almost lunar landscape, while the remote Kleftiko caves, only accessible by boat, offer a stunning backdrop for snorkeling and exploration.
Unlike Santorini, where the influx of tourism has shifted local culture, Milos retains a more authentic Greek atmosphere. Traditional tavernas still serve up freshly caught seafood, and locals welcome visitors with warmth and genuine hospitality. In the harbor town of Adamas, travelers can experience a vibrant yet laid-back nightlife scene, where ouzo flows freely, and live music plays under the stars.
For history lovers, the island’s rich mining past and ancient catacombs add layers of intrigue beyond its breathtaking coastal beauty. In Milos, you won’t have to battle crowds for the perfect sunset or pay exorbitant prices for an authentic Greek meal—here, the magic of the Cyclades remains untouched.
5. Machu Picchu, Peru
Machu Picchu limits tourist numbers, but the crowds still come | Matyas Rehak / Shutterstock
As one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites, Machu Picchu faces the threats of erosion and habitat destruction due to the sheer volume of visitors. The constant foot traffic has led to the degradation of pathways, while increasing numbers of tourists have disrupted the natural surroundings.
In response, Peru has imposed entry restrictions, including designated time slots and visitor caps, yet the demand remains relentless. The influx of tourists has also led to commercialization, with the town of Aguas Calientes transforming into a hub of souvenir shops and overpriced accommodations, far removed from the mystical allure that once defined the site. Despite efforts to preserve Machu Picchu, the challenge remains: how to balance tourism with conservation without stripping away its wonder.
Where to Go Instead: Choquequirao, Peru
Choquequirao is just as impressive as Machu Picchu, but the latter dominates the brochures | Erick Manga / Shutterstock
Dubbed the “sister city” of Machu Picchu, Choquequirao is a larger yet lesser-known Incan site tucked deep in the Andes. Unlike Machu Picchu, which is accessible by train and bus, Choquequirao requires a strenuous multi-day trek to reach, acting as a natural filter against mass tourism.
Those who make the journey are rewarded with breathtaking ruins that rival Machu Picchu in architectural grandeur, misty mountains stretching into the horizon, and the tranquility of an unspoiled historical wonder. The site remains largely unrestored, allowing visitors to experience a raw and authentic glimpse into the past.
Trekking through lush cloud forests and crossing rushing rivers adds to the adventure, making the destination as much about the journey as the reward. Without the crowds, you can stand in solitude amidst the stone terraces, hearing nothing but the wind and the echoes of history, something that’s increasingly rare in today’s travel landscape.
6. The Maldives
The beaches of the Maldives are suffering from both locals’ and visitors’ practices | Flystock / Shutterstock
Luxury resorts and overwater bungalows have made the Maldives a dream honeymoon destination, but unchecked tourism is causing long-term damage to its fragile ecosystem.
The once-pristine coral reefs are suffering from bleaching due to rising ocean temperatures and pollution, while the rapid expansion of resorts has led to habitat destruction and unsustainable water usage. Marine life, once abundant, is being threatened by excessive diving tours, irresponsible snorkeling practices, and waste dumping into the ocean.
Additionally, the exclusivity of many Maldivian resorts means that much of the tourism revenue remains in the hands of international corporations, leaving local communities struggling to benefit from the influx of visitors. Over time, the environmental and economic strain threatens to erase what made the Maldives a paradise in the first place.
Where to Go Instead: Zanzibar, Tanzania
Zanzibar’s coastline remains relatively unspoiled for now | Humphrey Muleba / Unsplash
Zanzibar, with its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich Swahili culture, offers a vibrant and less-touristed alternative that still maintains its natural charm. Instead of overpriced, secluded resorts, visitors can find a diverse mix of accommodations, from eco-lodges to locally owned boutique hotels, ensuring that tourism directly benefits local communities.
Explore Stone Town’s historic spice markets, where centuries of Arab, African, and European influence converge in a sensory overload of aromas and architecture. Take a traditional dhow boat to the remote Mnemba Atoll, where coral reefs remain healthy, and marine conservation efforts help sustain local sea life. Zanzibar’s beaches, such as Nungwi and Kendwa, offer stretches of untouched coastline where the pace is relaxed, the seafood is fresh, and the atmosphere is welcoming.
Beyond the beaches, visitors can venture into Jozani Forest to spot the rare red colobus monkeys, or tour a spice plantation to see firsthand why Zanzibar is nicknamed “The Spice Island.” Unlike the Maldives, where many experiences are confined to private resorts, Zanzibar offers a rich, immersive cultural experience alongside its breathtaking natural beauty.
7. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik is a victim of its own success in the summer months | Ekaterina Kupeeva / Shutterstock
Overcrowding Woes: A victim of its own beauty—and the popularity of Game of Thrones—Dubrovnik now struggles with cruise ship crowds that flood the Old Town, turning its medieval streets into a tourist free-for-all.
The historic walls that once stood as formidable defenses are now lined with queues of tourists, and the charming alleyways have become a maze of souvenir shops and overpriced restaurants. The influx of visitors has pushed housing prices through the roof, driving locals out of the city center and turning many neighborhoods into glorified Airbnb hubs.
The sheer number of tourists has also taken a toll on the city's infrastructure, with cobblestone streets wearing down faster than they can be maintained. For those hoping to soak in the authentic atmosphere of Dubrovnik, dodging tour groups and waiting in long lines at landmarks like Rector's Palace and Sponza Palace has become an unavoidable part of the experience.
Even the once-peaceful coastline, where fishing boats used to bob lazily in the Adriatic, is now crowded with speedboats offering whirlwind tours, leaving little room for the serenity that once defined this coastal paradise.
Where to Go Instead: Kotor, Montenegro
Kotor does get busy in summer, but the crowds are usually more forgiving | Triff / Shutterstock
A short journey down the coast, Kotor boasts a similarly stunning medieval walled town but with fewer visitors. Unlike Dubrovnik, which often feels like an open-air museum overrun with tourists, Kotor maintains a sense of tranquility and authenticity. Hike up to the fortress for panoramic views of the fjord-like Bay of Kotor, a landscape so dramatic it rivals the best of the Adriatic.
Stroll along quiet cobblestone lanes where you’re more likely to run into a local artisan than a tour guide waving a flag. The old-world ambiance is still intact, with locals going about their daily lives, fishermen selling their fresh catch at the markets, and quaint cafés serving up strong Montenegrin coffee. Kotor’s rich history is reflected in its well-preserved Venetian architecture, and for those looking to explore beyond the town, the surrounding region offers pristine hiking trails, hidden beaches, and charming mountain villages waiting to be discovered.
Best of all, Kotor remains refreshingly affordable compared to Dubrovnik, making it an even more appealing alternative for those seeking both beauty and authenticity without the hefty price tag.
8. Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto’s serene temples and historic districts suffer from being too attractive | Alla Tsyganova / Shutterstock
Overcrowding Woes: Once a serene sanctuary of temples and tea houses, Kyoto is now struggling with an overwhelming influx of tourists, particularly in cherry blossom season. Historic districts like Gion, once the heart of geisha culture, have seen cultural erosion due to camera-wielding visitors disrupting local traditions.
The narrow streets, once quiet alleys where one might spot a maiko (apprentice geisha) gracefully moving between engagements, are now flooded with tourists chasing photo opportunities. Even temples like Fushimi Inari and Kinkaku-ji are no longer places of peaceful contemplation but rather packed sightseeing hotspots where getting a clear view requires expert-level maneuvering.
Locals are growing frustrated, as traditional businesses are being replaced by souvenir shops, and housing costs have surged due to short-term vacation rentals catering to the unending stream of tourists. Kyoto’s essence—its quiet, understated beauty—is slowly slipping away under the weight of mass tourism.
Read next: Uncovering hidden Kyoto
Where to Go Instead: Kanazawa, Japan
Kanazawa offers the same traditional Japanese experience, but without the mass tourism | Alla Tsyganova / Shutterstock
Kanazawa retains the elegance and historical charm of Kyoto but sees a fraction of the tourists, making it a perfect alternative for those seeking authenticity. The city’s Higashi Chaya District is a beautifully preserved geisha quarter where traditional teahouses still operate, offering visitors a glimpse into Japan’s refined arts without the overwhelming crowds.
Kanazawa also boasts Kenrokuen Garden, often ranked among Japan’s most stunning gardens, where visitors can wander through meticulously designed landscapes, koi-filled ponds, and seasonally changing floral displays in relative tranquility. Beyond its historic allure, Kanazawa has embraced the modern arts scene, with institutions like the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art pushing creative boundaries.
The food scene here is also spectacular—fresh seafood from the Sea of Japan, world-class sushi, and renowned gold-leaf-covered sweets make for a delicious culinary adventure. Best of all, Kanazawa’s lack of over-tourism means visitors can experience these cultural riches without the stress of battling crowds, preserving that sense of serene discovery that Kyoto once promised.
9. Reykjavik, Iceland
Iceland’s Golden Circle is under particular strain from tourists | jeafish Ping / Shutterstock
Overcrowding Woes: Iceland’s dramatic landscapes have made it a social media sensation, but overtourism has led to environmental strain and skyrocketing prices, particularly around Reykjavik and the Golden Circle. The once-serene geothermal pools are now brimming with day-trippers, and the roads leading to Iceland’s most famous waterfalls and black sand beaches are often backed up with rental cars.
The rapid rise in tourism has also put immense pressure on Iceland’s fragile ecosystem, with hiking trails eroding faster than they can be maintained and rare moss fields trampled underfoot. Even local wildlife, like puffins and Arctic foxes, face disruption as more tourists venture into their natural habitats. Additionally, Reykjavik’s accommodation prices have soared, making it harder for both visitors and residents to find affordable lodging, and the influx of short-term rentals has exacerbated the housing crisis.
Where to Go Instead: Lofoten Islands, Norway
The Lofoten Islands offer some of the best Northern Lights viewings in Scandinavia | Piotr Krzeslak / Shutterstock
With jagged peaks, fishing villages, and stunning fjords, the Lofoten Islands offer a similarly dramatic Arctic beauty with fewer tourists. Instead of overcrowded hot springs, you can soak in the midnight sun from a remote beach or witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of the Northern Lights without bumping elbows with a crowd.
The hiking trails are just as breathtaking, winding through craggy mountains that rise dramatically from the sea, but with far fewer footprints. The Lofoten Islands also offer a deeper connection to Scandinavian history, with Viking museums, fishing villages that have preserved their traditions for centuries, and a strong local culture that remains intact.
The slower pace of life here allows visitors to experience the Arctic in a more mindful and sustainable way, whether it’s kayaking through pristine waters, exploring ancient fjords, or staying in cozy rorbuer (traditional fishermen’s cabins) with front-row views of the sea. Unlike Reykjavik, where overtourism has led to commercialization and skyrocketing costs, Lofoten maintains its wild, untamed allure, making it the perfect alternative for those seeking a raw and immersive Nordic experience.
10. Rome, Italy
Rome’s iconic attractions see long wait times | Lena Serditova / Shutterstock
Overcrowding Woes: The Eternal City draws millions to its ancient sites, resulting in long lines, crowded piazzas, and rising costs that diminish the magic of its historic wonders. The Colosseum, the Vatican Museums, and the Trevi Fountain have become so packed that visiting feels more like an endurance test than an immersive experience.
Even the charm of leisurely strolling through Rome’s historic neighborhoods has been tainted by over-tourism, with souvenir shops and overpriced cafés replacing authentic local haunts. Residents are increasingly frustrated as the city’s infrastructure struggles under the weight of non-stop tourism, while traditional Roman life is being eroded by the relentless crowds.
Where to Go Instead: Bologna, Italy
Bologna offers plenty of historic and cultural sights without huge crowds | Vivida Photo PC / Shutterstock
Bologna offers stunning medieval architecture, fewer tourists, and a world-renowned culinary scene, making it a hidden gem that’s just as captivating as Rome—minus the chaos. The city is famous for its portico-covered walkways, giving it a distinctive architectural style unlike anywhere else in Italy. Climb the Asinelli Tower for a panoramic view of the red-roofed skyline, or explore the historic university district, home to Europe’s oldest university. Food lovers will be in heaven, with Bologna widely considered Italy’s culinary capital.
Dive into hearty tagliatelle al ragù (real Bolognese sauce), mortadella, and tortellini in brodo at traditional trattorias. And unlike Rome, you won’t have to elbow your way through crowds to enjoy a leisurely espresso in a piazza or a quiet moment inside a centuries-old church. Bologna retains its authentic Italian charm, making it a perfect alternative to the Eternal City.
11. Phuket, Thailand
Phuket’s streets are often difficult to navigate | Bao Menglong / Shutterstock
Overcrowding Woes: Once a tropical paradise, Phuket has become a victim of its own success. The island, once known for its idyllic beaches and lush jungles, is now plagued by mass tourism, making it difficult to find an untouched corner of paradise.
Patong Beach, once a serene escape, is now a never-ending party strip packed with high-rise hotels, neon lights, and pushy vendors. Environmental damage is another major concern—overdevelopment has led to deforestation, coral reef destruction, and excessive waste.
Even once-hidden gems like Maya Bay (made famous by The Beach) had to be closed due to severe ecosystem degradation. The charm of traditional Thai culture is also being lost, as authentic street food stalls and local markets are being replaced by chain restaurants and tacky souvenir shops catering to the hordes of tourists.
Where to Go Instead: Koh Lanta, Thailand
Koh Lanta offers sublime tropical beaches | Wi_Krabi / Shutterstock
If you’re looking for that dream Thai island experience but without the chaos, Koh Lanta is your answer. Unlike its rowdier neighbors, Koh Lanta has managed to keep its charm and tranquility intact. Picture empty stretches of white sand, crystal-clear waters, and fiery sunsets without a party boat in sight. Diving and snorkeling enthusiasts can explore Koh Lanta’s marine national parks, home to vibrant coral reefs and exotic marine life.
For those who prefer dry land, the island boasts lush jungles, hidden waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails. Koh Lanta’s Old Town offers a glimpse into traditional Thai life, with wooden stilt houses, quiet harbors, and local seafood eateries serving up mouthwatering dishes. It’s the kind of place where you can rent a scooter and cruise down empty coastal roads, discovering hidden beaches along the way. And the best part? You can actually hear the waves instead of a DJ blasting music from a beach club.
12. Paris, France
Paris is the world’s most visited city by tourists | Paul Wishart / Shutterstock
Overcrowding Woes: Paris is undeniably one of the most visited cities in the world, leading to packed attractions, long wait times, and skyrocketing accommodation prices. The Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Champs-Élysées are often crammed with visitors, making it difficult to truly appreciate their grandeur.
Even the picturesque Montmartre, once an artists' haven, is now teeming with tourists snapping photos rather than soaking in the creative atmosphere. Locals have been vocal about their frustration with short-term rentals driving up housing costs, and the sheer volume of visitors has led to concerns over sustainability.
Where to Go Instead: Lyon, France
Lyon is often overlooked for Paris | SerFF79 / Shutterstock
Lyon offers rich history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant culinary scene without the endless crowds of Paris. It’s a haven for food lovers, boasting an impressive array of traditional bouchons where you can sample authentic Lyonnaise cuisine like coq au vin and quenelles. The city’s UNESCO-listed Old Town is a treasure trove of Renaissance architecture, charming traboules (hidden passageways), and boutique shops that retain their local charm.
Beyond its old-world appeal, Lyon is also home to cutting-edge museums like the Musée des Confluences, which explores the intersection of science and humanity. Unlike Paris, you won’t be waiting in long queues or jostling through overcrowded streets, allowing for a more relaxed and immersive experience.
Travel is about discovery, but as travelers, we also have a responsibility to tread lightly and seek alternatives when destinations are overwhelmed. Exploring lesser-known places doesn’t just offer a richer, more personal experience—it helps protect the world’s treasures for generations to come.
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