Growing numbers of travel agents and tour operators are working to address overtourism, either through promoting alternative destinations, or through focusing on more sustainable travel packages.
In this post we will outline what overtourism is, and explore some of the areas currently affected by the issue. We will also discuss some ways travel agents and tour operators might help combat overtourism.
What is Overtourism?
In short, overtourism means that so many tourists are visiting an area that it is starting to cause problems. These problems might involve:
- Overcrowding
- Pollution, due to excess traffic or increased waste
- Loss of “local colour” or “character”
- Reduced living standards for locals, as tourist needs take priority over local concerns
In some cases, overtourism may even cost lives. In September 2025, a funicular railway crash resulted in 16 deaths and 21 injuries. The president of a local residents’ association blamed the crash on excessive tourism. They claimed that overuse by tourists placed too much of a strain on the vehicle, resulting in excess wear and tear that ultimately led to disaster.
Top Destinations Suffering From Overtourism
- Venice, Italy – Where daily visitors often outnumber permanent residents, and where rising property prices have made housing unaffordable for most.
- Barcelona, Spain – Many local businesses have become souvenir shops, and rising costs have meant that some locals can no longer afford to live in their family homes. Some locals even took to protesting against tourists with “tourist go home” signs.
- Kyoto, Japan – Historic geisha areas now display signs explicitly requesting that tourists respect local customs and private property. In high season, public transport can get so crowded that some locals struggle to get around.
- Machu Picchu, Peru – These 15th century Incan ruins are so popular that the area is facing problems with litter, eroding pathways, and even damage and erosion to the stones themselves.
- Dubrovnik, Croatia – Dubrovnik is a popular stop for cruise ships. Over 500 visit the city each year, resulting in huge crowds and increased pollution. Yet because these passengers only spend a few hours in the city, they typically do not spend much money. This means that Dubrovnik may experience all of the downsides of mass tourism, while enjoying very few of the benefits.
How Can Travel Agents and Tour Operators Combat Overtourism?
Do your research about overtourism in your destinations. Before you arrange any trip to any destination, take some time to research:
- the current situation in the area
- If local residents are already protesting against overtourism
- If local authorities are already taking action
If so, take it as a sign that you may need to rethink your approach.
Find and promote alternative destinations. Source lesser-known locations and you can help to relieve some of the pressure on popular, overcrowded destinations while still providing rich and rewarding travel experiences for your customers. This might involve finding “dupe” destinations – essentially, places that offer:
- broadly similar experiences to more popular spots
- less crowds
- lower costs
- less negative impact on locals
Go off the beaten track. If you are going to sell trips and packages to popular destinations, you could still help combat overtourism through sourcing alternative itineraries. Look for:
- alternative routes and experiences
- tours with quieter or off-peak hours if you want to include popular and iconic hotspots
- the opportunity to encourage people to travel outside of the high season
For more ideas on how you can offer high quality tours and packages while minimising the harmful impact of travel, read our guide to sustainable travel.
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