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Europe’s most overcrowded city has 30 times more tourists than locals

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Europe’s most overcrowded city has 30 times more tourists than locals

Europe has an impressive offering of interesting holiday destinations, with sun-soaked beaches, snowy ski resorts, and springtime city breaks aplenty.

Many have become tourist hotspots, attracting millions of global visitors every year. This means that even some places once considered ‘hidden gems’ now face overtourism.

Albania, a small country in the Balkans, is one example of European countries facing an unprecedented tourism surge. More than 7.5 million tourists visited Albania last year, and more than 10 million are expected to visit next year.

But it’s not just the places that were once lesser-known to global visitors that are overcrowded. A study conducted by the Holidu team identified the cities with the highest ratio of tourists to residents earlier this year.

While London, Barcelona or Paris may come to mind, the famous capital cities did not make the cut. Instead, a rather unexpected destination took the top spot.

10. Tallinn

Estonia’s capital city isn’t on everyone’s travel bucket list, but those who have visited it would say it’s a must-see. With a beautiful old town branded by some visitors as one of the best in Europe, it makes for a charming summer city break. Tallinn also boasts a unique Nordic-Eastern European fusion culture and is well-known for being a cruise ship destination.

But its popularity, thanks to major sights like the Lahemaa National Park, means it’s become overrun with 10 tourists for every resident, according to Holidu. Those looking for a quieter Estonian break will find plenty to explore beyond Tallinn.

(Image: Getty)

People walking down a busy street in Dublin

9. Dublin

Unsurprisingly, another major city has snagged a spot in the ranking, this time in the Republic of Ireland. Dublin ranks just inside the top 10, with 11 tourists for every resident, claims Holidu. Temple Bar is one of the city’s most crowded spots, attracting approximately 3.5 million visits annually. The Guinness Storehouse is another renowned Dublin attraction, but visitors say it’s like a well-oiled machine, and you can beat the queues by booking tickets in advance.

(Image: Getty)

Red Light District with crowds of people and Basilica of Saint Nicholas illuminated at dusk, Amsterdam, Netherlands

8. Amsterdam

As one of Europe’s top tourist hotspots, Amsterdam has 12 tourists for every resident, which is straining the city’s housing market, local neighbourhoods, and character.

Similar to Prague in the Czech Republic, the city has grown frustrated by the influx of drunken stag parties. A campaign to discourage young Britons, particularly groups of men aged 18-35 from visiting was launched in Dutch capital. Additionally, Amsterdam has implemented one of the world’s highest tourist taxes, which might deter travellers in the future.

(Image: Getty)

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