10 Cities That Are Over Tourism (and Where Travelers Should Go Instead)
Tourism brings money, but too much of a good thing can ruin a city. From jam-packed streets to skyrocketing rents, some of the world’s most iconic destinations are starting to push back against visitors.
If you want to avoid adding to the chaos—and still have an amazing trip—here are the cities that are officially “over tourism,” and the alternative spots you should try instead.
Table of Contents
- 1. Barcelona, Spain → Try Valencia
- 2. Venice, Italy → Try Bologna
- 3. Amsterdam, Netherlands → Try Utrecht
- 4. Dubrovnik, Croatia → Try Split
- 5. Kyoto, Japan → Try Kanazawa
- 6. Reykjavik, Iceland → Try Akureyri
- 7. Bali, Indonesia (Canggu/Ubud) → Try Lombok
- 8. Mexico City, Mexico → Try Puebla
- 9. Santorini, Greece → Try Naxos
- 10. Paris, France → Try Lyon
1. Barcelona, Spain → Try Valencia
Barcelona has been at the center of anti-tourism protests, with residents furious about rising rents and overcrowded streets. Tourists still flock here, but locals say they can’t handle the strain. Instead, head to Valencia, just a few hours away. You’ll still get gorgeous beaches, lively food markets, and historic architecture, but with fewer crowds and a more relaxed pace.
2. Venice, Italy → Try Bologna
Venice is drowning in cruise ship visitors, so much so that the city has introduced day-trip fees for tourists. The canals may be stunning, but the crush of people can make the city feel unlivable for residents. A great alternative is Bologna, known for its medieval towers, incredible pasta, and authentic Italian vibe. Plus, it’s a university city, so the energy feels youthful and local.
3. Amsterdam, Netherlands → Try Utrecht
Amsterdam has put up “stay away” campaigns aimed at discouraging rowdy tourists, especially those coming for drugs and nightlife. Locals are fed up, and new rules have tightened around Airbnbs and bars. Instead, visit Utrecht, a charming canal city just 30 minutes away. It’s got the same scenic waterways and Dutch architecture, without the chaos of Amsterdam’s party scene.
4. Dubrovnik, Croatia → Try Split
Thanks to Game of Thrones fame, Dubrovnik has been slammed with visitors, especially cruise passengers. The old town can feel more like a movie set than a real city. If you want Croatia’s beauty without the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds, try Split. You’ll still find historic ruins, a lively waterfront, and easy access to the islands, but the pace is less suffocating.
5. Kyoto, Japan → Try Kanazawa
Kyoto is one of Japan’s most beloved cities, but its streets have become choked with tourists hunting for geisha photos and Instagrammable shrines. Residents have complained about bad behavior and over-tourism disrupting traditions. Kanazawa offers a similar feel with historic districts, beautiful gardens, and cultural depth—but with a fraction of the tourists.
6. Reykjavik, Iceland → Try Akureyri
Iceland’s popularity has exploded, and Reykjavik is showing the strain. With limited housing and infrastructure, locals often feel priced out and overwhelmed. Instead, head to Akureyri in the north. You’ll still get volcanoes, waterfalls, and Northern Lights, but in a quieter, more sustainable setting.
7. Bali, Indonesia (Canggu/Ubud) → Try Lombok
Bali’s hotspots like Canggu and Ubud are notorious for overtourism—traffic jams, trash problems, and tourists behaving badly. Locals have openly complained that the island’s culture is getting watered down. Lombok, just next door, has stunning beaches, surf spots, and fewer crowds, making it a better option for a laid-back escape.
8. Mexico City, Mexico → Try Puebla
Mexico City is bursting with remote workers and tourists, and locals are voicing frustration about rising rents and gentrification. For an alternative, head to Puebla, just two hours away. You’ll find colorful colonial streets, world-class food (this is the birthplace of mole poblano), and a much calmer atmosphere.
9. Santorini, Greece → Try Naxos
Santorini’s cliffside towns are iconic, but the influx of cruise ships and tourists has made it nearly unbearable for locals. Hotels are pricey, streets are packed, and the island is straining to keep up. Naxos offers the same Aegean charm, with golden beaches, mountain villages, and a more authentic Greek island experience.
10. Paris, France → Try Lyon
Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world, and locals have long complained about overtourism clogging its most famous sites. Instead, consider Lyon. It’s France’s food capital, has UNESCO-listed old quarters, and offers a more relaxed cultural vibe. You’ll still get French charm—without the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds at the Eiffel Tower.
