Europe’s Major Tourist Spots Launch “Discouragement” Campaigns & New Fees -

Tour & Travel

Europe’s Major Tourist Spots Launch “Discouragement” Campaigns & New Fees

Yes, Europe’s hotspots, reeling from over tourism, are using tactics of “discouragement”: higher fees, such as Venice doubling day-trip entry; stricter rules, such as flights and rentals; and even local protests against mass tourism are rising in places like Spain, Italy, and Portugal, pushing for limits on visitors to protect resources and culture.

Why It’s Happening:

Over tourism crisis: Budget airlines and short-term rentals create massive influxes of tourists that strain infrastructure, drive up the cost for locals, and damages cultural sites.
Local Backlash: People in cities such as Barcelona, Venice, and Lisbon are taking to the streets, demanding action to preserve quality of life and cultural identity.
Examples of “Discouragement” measures:
Higher Entry Fees: Venice is doubling its tax for day visitors.
Stricter regulations: calls to limit cruise ships, non-resident rentals – including Airbnb – and even the number of flights.
“Welcome” Campaigns-subtle discouragement: Within areas not directly in your search, there is a shift from “Welcome” to “Visit Responsibly” messaging that subtly manages expectations and visitor numbers.