Tourism has the power to transform entire cities and landscapes, bringing economic opportunities and global recognition. But in some cases, the influx of travelers has gone too far, overwhelming fragile ecosystems, eroding local culture, and creating destinations that no longer resemble the places that made them famous in the first place.
From overcrowded historic towns to natural wonders littered with trash, the darker side of tourism is hard to ignore. What once felt authentic and magical can sometimes feel staged, commercialized, or even unlivable for the people who actually call these places home. Travelers who arrive expecting wonder often leave with frustration.
Still, it’s not all doom and gloom. For every overcrowded destination, there are alternatives—places that offer the same natural beauty or cultural richness but without the suffocating crowds. By choosing these lesser-known spots, travelers can enjoy unforgettable experiences while easing the burden on overvisited sites.
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Quick Easy Tips
Travel in the off-season to reduce pressure on popular sites and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
Look for alternative destinations that offer similar beauty or culture without the overwhelming crowds. Lesser-known towns and natural areas often provide richer, more authentic experiences.
Support local communities by spending money at family-run businesses rather than global chains. This helps ensure your trip contributes directly to the people who live there.
One major controversy centers on responsibility. Some argue that overtourism is the fault of travelers chasing Instagram-worthy photos without considering the consequences. Others point to governments and corporations for prioritizing profit over sustainability.
Another heated debate is about access. Critics say restricting entry to popular sites is unfair, turning them into playgrounds only for the wealthy. Supporters argue that without limits, these places will be destroyed beyond repair, leaving nothing for future generations.
Finally, there’s the issue of cultural authenticity. Many destinations adapt to cater to tourists, sometimes watering down traditions or inflating prices. While some travelers appreciate the convenience, others lament the loss of originality that comes when a place bends too far to meet tourist demand.
1. Venice, Italy: Go to Ljubljana, Slovenia
Mass tourism (25+ million visitors a year) has driven locals out.
Rising sea levels and cruise ship damage threaten the city’s historic canals.
Hotels and Airbnbs have drastically inflated prices, making daily life unaffordable.
Why Ljubljana Is Better:
A stunning, car-free Old Town with charming canals and colorful buildings.
Less expensive and less crowded—you can enjoy the atmosphere without fighting through crowds.
A more sustainable, eco-friendly destination with great local food and wine.
Must-Do in Ljubljana: Take a boat ride along the Ljubljanica River, just like in Venice!
2. Bali, Indonesia: Go to Lombok, Indonesia
Overdevelopment has led to traffic jams, pollution, and a loss of local culture.
Trash and plastic pollution have harmed its once-pristine beaches.
Instagram culture has turned it into a backdrop for influencers rather than an authentic experience.
Why Lombok Is Better:
Unspoiled beaches and lush green landscapes without the chaos.
Less commercialized, making it a perfect retreat for nature lovers.
Surfing, waterfalls, and traditional Sasak culture still thrive.
Must-Do in Lombok: Hike to the summit of Mount Rinjani, an active volcano with breathtaking views.
3. Santorini, Greece: Go to Milos, Greece
Mass tourism has made it incredibly expensive, with hotels costing over $500 per night.
Cruise ships flood the island, making sunsets at Oia feel like a theme park ride.
The local population can’t keep up with the tourist demand, leading to a loss of authenticity.
Why Milos Is Better:
Stunning white-rock beaches and crystal-clear waters, just like Santorini.
A fraction of the tourists and a much more relaxed vibe.
More affordable accommodations and genuine Greek hospitality.
Must-Do in Milos: Swim in Sarakiniko Beach, a lunar-like landscape of white volcanic rock.
4. Machu Picchu, Peru: Go to Choquequirao, Peru
Why Machu Picchu Is Overcrowded:
Strict visitor limits were put in place due to over-tourism damage.
The Inca Trail is packed, making the hike less enjoyable.
Expensive permits and high entry fees make it costly for travelers.
Why Choquequirao Is Better:
A hidden Inca ruin that is even bigger than Machu Picchu but gets less than 30 visitors a day.
Free entry and no crowds, giving you an authentic experience.
A rewarding trek through the Andes, without the commercialization.
Must-Do in Choquequirao: Explore the well-preserved terraces and temples, untouched by mass tourism.
5. The Maldives: Go to The Andaman Islands, India
Why The Maldives Is Overcrowded:
Luxury resorts dominate, leaving little space for local culture.
Climate change is causing severe coral reef damage and rising sea levels.
Prices are sky-high, making it inaccessible for most travelers.
Why The Andaman Islands Are Better:
Crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and white sandy beaches—just like the Maldives.
Less crowded and more budget-friendly, with guesthouses instead of overpriced resorts.
Great for eco-tourism, with protected marine parks and indigenous culture.
Must-Do in the Andaman Islands: Scuba dive in Havelock Island, home to stunning coral reefs and marine life.
6. Kyoto, Japan: Go to Kanazawa, Japan
Over 50 million tourists visit Kyoto yearly, making famous temples unbearably crowded.
Traditional areas like Gion are losing their authenticity due to mass tourism.
Prices for accommodations and dining have skyrocketed.
Why Kanazawa Is Better:
Beautiful samurai and geisha districts, just like Kyoto, but without the crowds.
Home to Kenrokuen, one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens.
Authentic Japanese culture, including traditional tea houses and ryokan stays.
Must-Do in Kanazawa: Explore the Higashi Chaya district, an atmospheric geisha quarter.
7. Dubrovnik, Croatia: Go to Kotor, Montenegro
Game of Thrones tourism has led to insane crowds and overpricing.
Cruise ships bring thousands of visitors daily, overwhelming the Old Town.
Locals are moving out due to rising living costs.
Why Kotor Is Better:
A beautiful medieval town with Venetian architecture, just like Dubrovnik.
Surrounded by fjord-like mountains, creating a breathtaking setting.
More affordable and far less touristy.
Must-Do in Kotor: Climb the San Giovanni Fortress for an epic view of Kotor Bay.
8. Phuket, Thailand: Go to Koh Lanta, Thailand
Overdevelopment has led to traffic, pollution, and overcrowded beaches.
Many places cater to mass tourism, losing their Thai charm.
Prices have surged, making it no longer budget-friendly.
Why Koh Lanta Is Better:
Quiet, pristine beaches without overdevelopment.
Authentic Thai culture, with local markets and friendly communities.
Less nightlife and more nature, perfect for relaxing.
Must-Do in Koh Lanta: Visit Mu Ko Lanta National Park, with jungles and secluded beaches.
9. The Pyramids of Giza, Egypt: Go to Meroë, Sudan
Pushy vendors, scammers, and massive crowds ruin the experience.
Over-commercialization has made it feel more like a theme park than a historical site.
The surrounding area is heavily polluted and chaotic.
Why Meroë Is Better:
Over 200 Nubian pyramids, many older than Giza’s pyramids.
Almost no tourists, so you can explore freely.
Much cheaper and more authentic.
Must-Do in Meroë: Visit at sunrise or sunset for breathtaking views of the pyramids against the desert.
Final Thoughts
Tourism doesn’t have to destroy the very places it celebrates. With awareness and intention, travelers can help preserve destinations while still enjoying them. Choosing alternatives is not about denying yourself—it’s about expanding your horizons.
The controversies around overtourism reveal deeper questions about how we define travel. Is it about ticking off the most famous landmarks, or is it about meaningful experiences that respect culture and environment?
Ultimately, the solution lies in balance. By being mindful of where and how we travel, we can enjoy the world without harming it, ensuring that the beauty and history we seek remain intact for generations to come.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.