Tourism in Europe’s hotspots has been on the rise, leading to a string of anti-tourism protests across various cities in 2024. Residents have been fighting against overtourism through marches, campaigns, and slogans, calling for stricter measures to handle the increasing number of visitors. Authorities in cities like Barcelona, Venice, Málaga, and the Canary Islands have responded with various overtourism measures, such as limiting tour groups, banning megaphones, and imposing restrictions on short-term rentals. The protests have mainly focused on the impact of tourism on accommodation and housing crisis in these cities.
Despite the protests, international tourist arrivals in Spain reached a record high of 82.8 million in the first ten months of 2024, with expectations of further growth in the winter months. The Assembly of Neighbourhoods for the Decline of Tourism in Barcelona believes that tourism needs to decrease to address issues related to climate, social, and environmental problems, as well as the housing emergency. They feel that city authorities are not taking adequate steps to reduce overtourism and promote eco-social transition. While there are no concrete plans for more protests, the ABDT is adamant that more significant changes need to be implemented to address the negative impacts of tourism in Barcelona.
In the Canary Islands, anti-tourism protests are expected to continue in 2025, with organizations like ATAN advocating for measures such as a tourist eco-tax and limitations on new constructions. Nestor Marrero Rodríguez, the secretary of ATAN, criticizes the authorities for perpetuating the poverty of Canarian society through new development projects. He encourages tourists to choose more sustainable destinations and support local companies that prioritize environmental conservation and community welfare. While specific protest dates have not been revealed, Rodríguez emphasizes the importance of taking action against overtourism in the Canary Islands.
In Amsterdam, city councillor Sofyan Mbarki discusses the measures that have been implemented to combat overtourism, such as regulating vacation rentals and relocating cruises. Mbarki acknowledges the need for additional measures to address the increasing number of visitors and reduce disturbances caused by tourism. In 2025, Amsterdam plans to continue banning the addition of beds in hotels, creating new hotels, and implementing stricter regulations on cafes and restaurants. Mbarki emphasizes the importance of visitors following the rules and respecting local communities to ensure a liveable environment for residents. He encourages tourists to explore areas outside the city centre and support sustainable tourism practices in Amsterdam.
Overall, European hotspots are facing challenges related to overtourism, with residents and authorities taking different approaches to address the negative impacts of tourism. While protests have raised awareness about the need for stricter measures, authorities are working on implementing regulations to manage visitor numbers and reduce disturbances. The coming year will likely see continued efforts to balance the benefits of tourism with the preservation of local communities and the environment. Visitors are encouraged to be mindful of their actions and support sustainable tourism practices to ensure the long-term viability of these popular destinations.
