The summer holiday season is in full swing, bringing a massive influx of tourists from around the globe. Southern European countries, such as Greece, Spain, and Italy, are typically crowded at this time of year. However, in 2024, the number of visitors has reached unprecedented levels. Local authorities struggle to manage the overwhelming crowds, and residents are voicing their frustrations as daily life becomes increasingly difficult. The cost of housing, food, and essential goods has soared, driven up by the sheer volume of tourists.

In Spain, the situation has escalated to the point where some locals have taken matters into their own hands. In Madrid and Barcelona, residents have resorted to extreme measures, such as shouting at tourists, splashing them with water, and employing other tactics to discourage them from staying in their cities. While this approach may be drastic, it seems to be working. To prevent similar unrest, Italian authorities are now introducing various restrictions to better control the tourist influx.

Thursday, 15 August, marks Ferragosto, a significant holiday in Italy and a time when tourist numbers typically peak. In anticipation of this surge, authorities across the country have implemented a series of new measures to mitigate the impact of over-tourism. These initiatives include introducing new traffic controls, limits on visitor numbers, and the requirement to book beach access in advance.

As reported by Polsat News, regions from Trentino and the Cinque Terre in the north to Capri and Sardinia in the south have rolled out various strategies to alleviate traffic congestion, manage crowds, and regulate the flow of tourists. The authorities prioritise public safety and environmental preservation while also striving to maintain a high quality of life for permanent residents, particularly in smaller towns.

In Florence, officials have restricted renting flats in the historic centre, limiting their availability for short-term tourist rentals. Meanwhile, changes are being made to viewpoints along the Alta Via del Sale road near Cuneo in Piedmont, where cars frequently stop, causing blockages. To address this issue, authorities will install a special stoplight, allowing tourists a maximum of 20 minutes to stop, take photos, enjoy the view, and move on before their time expires.

The authorities in Braies, Alto Adige, known for its stunning lake that attracts thousands of tourists, have also introduced some restrictions to manage the influx. Visitors must now book access to the road leading to the lake in advance. Similarly, in Sardinia, a limit on the number of beachgoers has been implemented to prevent overcrowding and protect the delicate coastal environment.

The measures don't stop there. On the island of Capri, authorities have decided to double the fee for mooring yachts. Additionally, as reported by Polsat News, limits have been placed on the number of people allowed on public beaches in the Naples area. These steps are designed to ensure the safety and comfort of both tourists and residents.

Source: polsatnews.pl