Want a quiet holiday? Avoid these top places for overtourism and go here instead
The top hotspots in Europe suffering from overtourism have been revealed – with some destinations welcoming up to 150 overnight stays for every local resident.
And it’s not just the crowds that can cause headaches. Soaring prices, local protests, and even tourist tax and restrictions are making it harder to enjoy certain parts of Europe without feeling like a walking pound sign.
Mallorca, Zante and Paris were named as the top places for overtourism in European Commission data analysed by Which?
Spain's Mallorca had 51 million overnight stays in 2023, causing the government to introduce a tourist tax of up to €4 a night. This is much cheaper than Barcelona which is charging up to €11 a night. But it's double the Portugal tourist tax where tourists pay a maximum of €2 a night.
While the island of Mallorca had 12.5 million visitors in 2023, it is actually Greece's Zante which fares worst in what the commission calls 'tourism pressure'. That's because it had almost 150 overnight stays for every person who lives there, compared to Mallorca's 54 per resident.
When it comes to cities, Which? looked at the tourist nights per square kilometre, finding Paris had the most tourists crammed into its streets, followed by Athens and Copenhagen.
Its 44 million overnight stays equal a huge 418,280 stays per square kilometre in Paris, compared to 14,064 in Mallorca.
While visitor numbers aren't massive in Istria, Croatia, its small population of less than 200,000 across the whole region means it has 133 overnight stays per resident, coming second to Zante.
Holiday alternatives
If you're wanting a similar experience without the crowds, we've found some alternative holiday destinations.
Mallorca alternative: Mallorca's popularity can lead to overcrowded beaches and bustling resorts.
In contrast, Menorca, its quieter neighbour, is a haven of tranquility.
Designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Menorca offers pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and charming towns like Ciutadella and Mahón.
Paris alternative: Bucharest in Romania has been compared to the city of love for its tree-lined boulevards, lush urban parks, and even its own Arc de Triomphe, called the Arc de Triumf!
We actually spoke to a travel expert about why the Romanian capital makes such a great second option, which you can read about here: Travel dupes: Cheaper alternatives to Santorini, Venice, Rome, Barcelona, Dubai and Hawaii
Zante alternative: The Greek island of Zante, or Zakynthos, is renowned for its vibrant nightlife - and crowded beaches.
If you want the similar crystal blue waters without fighting for a spot on the sand, you might want to try Lefkada, an island with turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and picturesque villages.
You can also drive there from the mainland, one of the few Greek islands accessible by car.
If it's nightlife you're after, Ios, Paros, Kos and Corfu also have bustling bars but are a bit more laid back.
Tips for a quieter break
- Visit in spring or autumn to avoid peak tourist numbers.
- Stay in smaller towns or inland villages and take day trips to popular cities.
- Research local festivals or cruise schedules – avoiding the days when thousands might descend at once.
- Check if a tourist tax applies, and how much it might add to your stay. For example, Venice now charges €5 per visitor for day trips during peak weekends.
Read more:
- Travel dupes: Cheaper alternatives to Santorini, Venice, Rome, Barcelona, Dubai and Hawaii
- Cheap holiday destinations 2025
- Want a cheap city break? Try Vilnius - top 5 cheapest (and most expensive) destinations revealed
- Greece tourist tax – how much is tourist tax for Crete, Corfu, Santorini, Mykonos, Athens, Zante and more