Europe is witnessing a surge in protests against overtourism, with demonstrations disrupting major cultural sites and events in countries like Spain and Italy, driven by local frustrations over overcrowding and its negative impacts.

In response to overtourism, many cities such as Palma and Naples are implementing measures like caps on cruise ships, restrictions on short-term rentals, and converting obsolete hotels into community spaces to manage visitor numbers.

There is an ongoing debate about the right of destinations to control their tourism, with some advocating for restrictions or higher costs to limit mass tourism and protect local cultures and living conditions.

Mass tourism has led to displacement of local populations, increased living costs, and deterioration of cultural authenticity in popular destinations like Barcelona, Venice, and Palma.

Experts emphasize that sustainable tourism requires proactive growth control, making tourism more inclusive and respectful, and putting residents at the center of tourism strategies to prevent damage caused by overtourism.

The COVID-19 pandemic temporarily slowed tourism, but the subsequent surge in 'revenge travel' has intensified overcrowding, especially in cities like Barcelona, Venice, and popular Greek islands.

Tourist destinations often follow a cycle: starting with low-impact appeal, then experiencing rapid growth fueled by low-cost airlines and short-term rentals, which eventually leads to overcrowding and environmental and social degradation.

Industry veteran Noel Josephides warned over a decade ago that unchecked growth from budget airlines and short-term rentals would lead to chaos, a prediction that has now come true with widespread overcrowding and local discontent.

Efforts are underway to promote lesser-known destinations and disperse tourists more evenly, including campaigns and incentives encouraging travel to less crowded regions.

Local residents report significant negative impacts from overtourism, including noise, rising costs, displacement, and loss of community identity due to the proliferation of Airbnb and short-term rentals.

The cycle of tourism growth highlights the importance of managing visitor numbers early on to prevent the negative consequences of overcrowding and environmental degradation.