Greece will impose new fees on travelers visiting its islands starting in 2025 to combat over-tourism and fund sustainability projects. Cruise passengers to Santorini and Mykonos will pay 20 euros, while other islands will charge 5 euros. Land-based tourists will also face increased taxes on short-term rentals and hotels. The revenue generated will support infrastructure upgrades and environmental initiatives.
Thousands of residents in Spain’s Canary Islands took to the streets on Sunday to protest against the impact of over-tourism, which they claim is making housing unaffordable for locals. Demonstrations were held across the islands, calling for reforms to tourism practices and stricter regulations on short-term rentals. The protests highlight a growing concern in Spain about the impact of tourism on local communities and housing markets.
The historic city of Evora in Portugal, a UNESCO World Heritage site, will introduce a tourist tax in 2025 to help preserve its ancient treasures and mitigate the effects of over-tourism. The tax will be collected from overnight visitors, with revenue allocated to heritage preservation, waste management, and tourism promotion. Certain groups, such as athletes, hospital patients, and non-profit organization members, will be exempt from the tax.
The Canary Islands, particularly Tenerife, face growing protests over mass tourism’s environmental impact. United Airlines’ decision to discontinue its direct Tenerife-New York route due to low demand is seen as a symbolic victory for those advocating for sustainable tourism practices. This move, along with calls to halt further hotel construction, could signal a shift towards a more responsible approach to tourism in the region.
Europe is battling over-tourism with creative solutions including fees, rental restrictions, and promotion of less-known destinations. The continent is recognizing the need to balance tourism with sustainability, ensuring both locals and visitors can enjoy its rich heritage.
New Zealand is raising the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) and visa fees, starting October 1, 2024, to address over-tourism and ensure sustainable tourism practices. The increased revenue will be used to preserve natural landscapes, enhance visitor facilities, and manage tourist influx.
The Czech Republic has implemented stringent measures to manage the influx of tourists, joining other European destinations like Tenerife and Majorca in tackling over-tourism. These measures aim to protect local environments and cultures while promoting sustainable travel practices.
Italy is considering a significant increase in tourist taxes, with proposals suggesting a rise up to €25 per night for luxury accommodations. This move, aimed at managing over-tourism and funding local services, has sparked debate among industry leaders and travelers alike.
Dubrovnik, Croatia, faces the highest tourist-to-resident ratio in Europe, with 27 visitors for every inhabitant, according to a recent study. Over tourism is becoming a growing concern for many European cities, including Rhodes, Venice, Heraklion, and Florence, as they strive to balance tourism with the preservation of their cultural heritage and the well-being of residents.
Residents in the Scottish Highlands are threatening anti-tourism protests due to the overwhelming influx of visitors, particularly along the scenic North Coast 500 route. Locals are struggling with reckless littering, road congestion, and disruptive behavior, demanding stricter regulations and designated tourist areas to alleviate the pressure on their communities.
