South Korea Joins Japan, Italy, Greece, Mexico, Croatia, and More in the Struggle to Manage Overtourism Amid Unprecedented Growth in Visitor Numbers as the country grapples with a significant rise in international tourism in 2025. Following a 20% increase in visitors year-on-year, South Korea?s popular destinations are now facing overcrowding, strain on local infrastructure, and growing concerns from residents about the impact of mass tourism. This surge in travel is not unique to South Korea; many countries around the world, including Japan, Italy, Greece, Mexico, and Croatia, are struggling with similar challenges. As tourism numbers soar, these nations are working to balance the economic benefits of travel with the need to protect local communities and environments from the adverse effects of overtourism.

In 2025, overtourism is no longer a distant problem?it has become an urgent issue affecting some of the world?s most popular travel destinations. With international tourism rebounding to pre-pandemic levels, many countries are facing the consequences of an influx of visitors that is overwhelming local infrastructure, damaging the environment, and causing tension between residents and tourists. From South Korea to Croatia, destinations once celebrated for their beauty, culture, and history are grappling with the challenge of maintaining their charm while managing the rising tide of global tourism.

Overtourism isn?t just about crowded attractions and packed streets; it encompasses the strain on resources, local businesses, and community life. This article explores the overtourism crisis in 2025, with a particular focus on South Korea, Japan, Italy, Greece, Mexico, and Croatia, analyzing the unique pressures each country faces and the measures they are taking to address the problem.

South Korea: Managing a Sudden Surge in Visitors

South Korea, known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and modern cities, has seen a significant rise in tourism in 2025, with a reported 20% increase in visitor numbers compared to previous years. The surge is largely attributed to the easing of global travel restrictions, but the rapid recovery has placed substantial pressure on popular destinations, particularly in Seoul and Jeju Island.

Overcrowding in Iconic Locations

The popularity of Seoul?s Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, and the bustling Myeongdong shopping district has led to severe congestion, especially during peak seasons. Long queues and overcrowded public spaces have become common, diminishing the visitor experience. Similarly, Jeju Island, a favorite destination for both domestic and international travelers, is experiencing strain on its natural resources and infrastructure.

Efforts to Control Visitor Numbers

To address these issues, South Korea has implemented several measures, such as regulating tourist activities, introducing visitor caps at certain heritage sites, and promoting off-peak travel. The government is also working to diversify tourist flows by encouraging visitors to explore less-traveled regions, such as the rural provinces of Gangwon-do and Gyeongsang-do, which offer unique cultural experiences without the intense pressure of the country?s urban hubs.

Japan: Kyoto and Beyond Struggling Under Mass Tourism

Japan?s tourism industry is booming, but the influx of visitors is starting to take its toll on the country?s most famous destinations. Cities like Kyoto, Tokyo, and Osaka are experiencing overwhelming foot traffic, particularly during the peak travel seasons. The challenges of managing overtourism in Japan are multifaceted, with concerns ranging from environmental degradation to the impact on local communities.

Kyoto: The Cultural Capital on the Edge

Kyoto, Japan?s former capital, is one of the hardest-hit cities by overtourism. Known for its iconic temples, shrines, and geisha culture, the city attracts millions of tourists every year. The high volume of visitors has led to significant overcrowding at popular sites like Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion), Fushimi Inari-taisha, and the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. In response, the local government has implemented measures such as limiting visitor access to certain areas and introducing higher fees for admission to popular sites.

Tokyo and Osaka: Big Cities Facing Big Challenges

In Tokyo and Osaka, overtourism manifests in the form of overcrowded public transportation systems, long lines at major attractions, and high levels of pollution. The introduction of a ?tourism tax? in some areas and the expansion of sustainable tourism campaigns are among the strategies Japan is exploring to manage the growing number of tourists.

Italy: Venice, Florence, and the Fight Against Overcrowding

Italy?s iconic cities, such as Venice, Florence, and Rome, are all grappling with overtourism in 2025. The country remains one of the top destinations in Europe, attracting millions of visitors each year. However, the pressure of this influx is beginning to show, especially in cities where the infrastructure was never designed to handle such large numbers of people.

Venice: The City That Can?t Catch Its Breath

Venice has been a poster child for overtourism for years, and in 2025, the situation has reached a critical point. The narrow canals and small streets of Venice are being overwhelmed by tourists, leading to environmental damage and a decline in the quality of life for local residents. The city has introduced a tourist tax on day-trippers and is limiting access to popular sites like St. Mark?s Square and the Rialto Bridge during peak hours. However, Venice?s future remains uncertain, as many worry that the damage from mass tourism is already irreversible.

Florence and Rome: Cultural Icons Under Siege

Florence and Rome are also facing significant overtourism challenges. In Florence, the Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, and Duomo Cathedral are often packed with visitors, while in Rome, the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, and Spanish Steps suffer from long queues and overcrowding. Both cities are working on measures to control visitor numbers, such as limiting entry to museums, expanding evening hours, and introducing more sustainable travel options.

Greece: Overcrowded Islands and Rising Property Prices

Greece, renowned for its stunning islands and historical landmarks, is experiencing a severe overtourism crisis in 2025. Popular destinations like Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete are struggling to cope with the enormous influx of visitors. While tourism is a key driver of the Greek economy, the rapid growth in visitor numbers is taking its toll on both the environment and local communities.

Santorini and Mykonos: Tourist Hotspots Under Pressure

Santorini and Mykonos are two of Greece?s most iconic islands, but both are grappling with overcrowding. The picturesque whitewashed buildings of Santorini?s villages and the vibrant nightlife of Mykonos attract millions of tourists every year, creating a pressure cooker of demand. Local businesses are reporting rising costs and strain on resources, while residents are increasingly frustrated with the impact of mass tourism on their daily lives.

Crete: Balancing Local Life with Global Tourism

Crete, Greece?s largest island, is experiencing similar pressures, though on a larger scale. While the island has more capacity to absorb tourists than Santorini or Mykonos, the influx of visitors has led to rising property prices and a growing gap between local residents and short-term renters. The Greek government is working to spread tourism more evenly across the country, promoting lesser-known destinations to reduce the strain on the most popular spots.

Mexico: Cancun and Mexico City Struggling with Overtourism

Mexico is another country seeing a massive influx of international tourists in 2025, particularly in cities like Cancun and Mexico City. While tourism is a major economic contributor, the rapid growth is creating significant challenges in both coastal and urban areas.

Cancun: Overcrowded Beaches and Luxury Resorts

Cancun, Mexico?s premier beach destination, is struggling with overcrowding in 2025. The region is one of the most visited tourist areas in the Caribbean, and its beaches, resorts, and attractions are often packed with tourists. In response, Cancun has introduced regulations to limit the number of large cruise ships docking at its port and is exploring sustainable tourism initiatives to preserve its environment and local culture.

Mexico City: A Hub of Tourism and Gentrification

Mexico City, the country?s vibrant capital, is also facing overtourism-related issues. The popularity of the city?s cultural landmarks, such as the Z?calo, Chapultepec Park, and the National Museum of Anthropology, has led to overcrowded streets and a rise in the cost of living. Local residents are increasingly frustrated by the impact of tourism on their daily lives, particularly in neighborhoods like Condesa and Roma, where the growth of short-term rentals has driven up rents and displaced long-term residents.

Croatia: The Adriatic Under Strain

Croatia, with its stunning coastline and UNESCO World Heritage sites, has become one of Europe?s fastest-growing tourism destinations. While the country benefits from tourism, the rapid influx of visitors is putting significant pressure on both its infrastructure and its small coastal towns.

Dubrovnik: The Price of Fame

Dubrovnik, famously known as the setting for Game of Thrones, is suffering from overtourism in 2025. The city?s medieval walls and narrow streets are often overwhelmed by tourists, leading to congestion and environmental degradation. The Croatian government has introduced a tourist tax and is considering further measures to limit the number of visitors during peak seasons. However, the city remains a popular tourist hotspot, and finding the right balance between tourism and preservation continues to be a major challenge.

Split and the Islands: Keeping the Adriatic Dream Alive

Split and Croatia?s surrounding islands are also facing overtourism pressures. The increase in visitor numbers has led to rising property prices, overcrowded beaches, and environmental concerns. Croatia is promoting tourism to less-visited regions to help alleviate the strain on popular spots like Dubrovnik and Split, but the challenge of maintaining sustainability while benefiting from tourism growth remains significant.

Overtourism is a growing concern in 2025, as many of the world?s most beloved destinations struggle to cope with surging visitor numbers. From South Korea to Croatia, each country is facing unique challenges as they balance the economic benefits of tourism with the need to protect local communities, heritage sites, and natural resources. While some countries have implemented effective measures to control overtourism, the road to sustainability is long and requires global cooperation and local innovation.

South Korea Joins Japan, Italy, Greece, Mexico, Croatia, and More in the Struggle to Manage Overtourism Amid Unprecedented Growth in Visitor Numbers as the country faces a 20% surge in tourists in 2025, straining popular destinations and local infrastructure. This rapid increase in visitors mirrors the challenges other nations are facing, as they work to balance the economic benefits of tourism with sustainable growth.

As travel continues to rebound, it is clear that the tourism industry must evolve to embrace more responsible practices. From limiting the number of visitors at popular sites to promoting less-traveled regions, the future of tourism must prioritize balance, sustainability, and community well-being. If these destinations are to preserve their beauty and cultural integrity, they will need to take bold steps toward a more sustainable and equitable tourism model. (TTW)

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