Europe continues to be a hotspot for tourists, with some regions facing the challenge of managing mass tourism. A data analysis by NZZ has revealed the most popular destinations based on overnight stays, and it highlights areas where locals prefer to vacation instead of the heavily trafficked hotspots.
Key Findings:
Top Popular Regions: The Antalya region in Turkey leads with over 100 million overnight stays, followed by the Adriatic coast, Catalonia, and the Paris region, each with 80 to 90 million stays. Austria’s Tyrol region also stands out with around 38 million overnight stays.
Overnight Stays Per Resident: When considering the number of stays relative to population, Greece’s Ionian Islands and South Aegean region emerge as the most impacted, with over 117 stays per resident in 2023. Croatia’s Adriatic coast remains prominent in both absolute and per capita overnight stays.
Domestic vs. International Tourism: Domestic tourism plays a significant role in countries like France, Spain, and Germany. French tourists frequently visit Paris and the Côte d’Azur, while Spaniards prefer Catalonia and Andalusia. Germans are particularly drawn to Munich and the Baltic Sea coast, notably Schleswig-Holstein and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania.
Seaside vs. Mountain Destinations:
Seaside: Popular coastal destinations include Antalya, the Greek islands, Croatia’s Adriatic coast, Catalonia, the Balearic Islands, and Andalusia. These regions offer the quintessential Mediterranean experience: sun, sea, and sand.
Mountain: Among the Alps, Tyrol in Austria stands out as a key mountain destination, while Venice, Paris, and Amsterdam continue to attract significant city tourism.
Small Regions and Local Preferences:
Less-Crowded Gems: Some regions see a higher ratio of domestic tourists, such as South Tyrol in Italy, Corsica in France, and Ticino in Switzerland. These destinations offer a more local experience, with fewer international tourists, making them ideal for those seeking a quieter vacation.
Overtourism: Many popular regions are dealing with the negative effects of overtourism. In Mallorca, protests and anti-tourism movements continue, while Venice has started charging entry fees, and Barcelona is cracking down on short-term rentals. However, densely populated regions with better infrastructure, such as parts of Spain and Italy, can absorb the tourist influx more effectively.
Insights for Travelers:
For those seeking less tourist-heavy experiences, regions where locals prefer to vacation are likely to offer a more authentic and relaxed environment. Conversely, areas like the Mediterranean islands and popular city centers are often dominated by international visitors, leading to crowded conditions, especially during peak seasons.
Ultimately, Europe’s tourism landscape is diverse, with certain destinations grappling with overtourism, while others remain hidden gems favored by locals.
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