13 European Destinations Tourists Should Avoid

It is difficult not to be attracted to Europe given its old history, cultures, and astonishing landscapes. However, the postcard-perfect rep that the continent enjoys doesn’t extend across the entire continent. There are some destinations that are too crowded, too environmentally challenged, or just don’t have the authentic charm you are looking for. If you want to have a memorable trip, avoiding these places could save you a headache or a large travel bill.

Not always is the place ‘bad.’ What used to be an ideal location can also be ravaged by timing, trends, or mismanagement. Some European destinations have had enough. From cities and fragile ecosystems drowning under human activity to cities drowning in selfie stick-toting tourists, these destinations need a break — and so do you.

Venice, Italy

Venice was once a romantic dream that became a cautionary tale of over-tourism. With over 20 million visitors per year, this floating city is struggling to keep its charm afloat. Severe environmental damage, rising tides, and an eroded foundation have been caused by the influx of cruise ships and day-trippers. But many Venetians themselves lament the loss of local culture, and the high rents and overcrowding have driven many to leave. If you don’t want to visit Venice, explore other smaller canal-side towns in Italy, like Chioggia or Treviso.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

You know how stuff like castles and dragons doesn’t exist? Well, they do in Dubrovnik. Authorities had to cap the number of daily visitors because the city has been so swamped by fans and cruise tourists. The tourist influx has become frustrating to local residents, and the historic city walls are beginning to show their metal. If you’re not looking for crowds, try Šibenik or Zadar for Adriatic charm.

Santorini, Greece

There’s no doubt that Santorini’s sunsets are stunning, but the island is buckling under the weight of mass tourism. Thousands of visitors are offloaded daily by cruise ships that clog its narrow streets and strain its limited resources. In high season, it’s like trying to find a needle in a haystack to find a quiet spot or even a seat in a restaurant. If you’re looking for a more laidback Greek experience, Naxos or Milos are good options.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is a victim of its own popularity. Its canals and museums are iconic, but the constant stream of tourists has made some neighborhoods into open-air theme parks. There have even been movements on the part of residents discouraging over-tourism by asking visitors to treat the city with respect. If you want a more serene Dutch experience, go to Haarlem or Utrecht.

Barcelona, Spain

There’s no denying Barcelona’s allure, but it’s also a city that’s groaning under its tourist load. Peak times are plenty packed beaches and overbooked landmarks like Sagrada Família feel like a marathon. New regulations to curb over-tourism have been imposed by the city, but crowds are still a problem. If you want Spanish culture without the hustle, Valencia or Girona could be wonderful alternatives.

Prague, Czech Republic

For years, travelers have been enchanted by Prague’s fairy tale vibe, but the word is out. Its Old Town is always full to the brim with people: tourists jostling for the perfect photo of the Astronomical Clock. Heavy foot traffic has taken its toll on local businesses, which are starting to cater more to tourists than residents. If you want to spend some time in the Czech Republic, instead head to Brno or Český Krumlov for some quieter Czech.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Iceland’s tourism has been a double-edged sword. The country’s natural wonders are breathtaking, but the capital has become a place for transient visitors. The infrastructure is strained during high season with visitors crowded and fighting for affordable accommodations. If you’re looking for a different Nordic escape, head to the Faroe Islands or Norway’s Lofoten Islands.

Cinque Terre, Italy

Cinque Terre’s colorful cliffside villages may be picture-perfect on Instagram, but they’re overrun with tourism in real life. Foot traffic congests the narrow pathways and the local environment struggles to cope. Even ticketing systems have been floated as a way to control visitor numbers. For a similar dose of coastal magic without the crush, head to Liguria’s Portovenere.

Paris, France in Summer

That might be the city of love, but in summer term time it’s also the city of endless lines and extortionate prices. With hordes of tourists, those major attractions – like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre – become near impossible to enjoy. If you can’t bear the stress of Paris, visit in the off-season, or go to nearby gems like Rouen or Reims.

Hallstatt, Austria

Hallstatt is a tourism hotspot because of its quaint lakeside setting, so much so that a replica village was built in China. Unfortunately, it has become a selfie battleground with more tourists than locals on most days. If you’re looking for some more alpine tranquillity head to Zell am See or the Salzkammergut.

Rome, Italy in Peak Season

Millions visit Rome for its ancient treasures, but summer visits can be a sweat-soaked test of patience. The heat makes it uncomfortable, and the Colosseum, Vatican, and Trevi Fountain are mobbed. If you’re looking for a less crowded slice of Roman history, try Ostia Antica or Tivoli.

Mykonos, Greece

Famed for its party scene, Mykonos has also earned a reputation for inflated prices and party-goers who might not win everyone over. In peak season, a quiet beach or a decent meal can seem Herculean. Paros or Antiparos is where you should be going for a more tranquil Cycladic getaway.

Interlaken, Switzerland

Interlaken, nestled between two beautiful lakes, has no shortage of swarms of adventurers, yet the charm is too frequently clouded by swarms of crowds, and the commercialization too rampant. It’s not the serene alpine town it used to be but rather a tourist thriving area. If you want a quieter mountain escape you could try Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.

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