What US travelers need to know amid anti-tourism protests in Europe
The U.S. State Department is warning travelers to exercise caution when traveling to Europe amid a renewed wave of anti-tourism protests.
The U.S. Embassy in Spain issued an alert ahead of anti-tourism demonstrations, as well as "additional protests related to the conflict in the Middle East," throughout the country on Sunday, including in popular tourist destinations such as Barcelona, San Sebastián, Valencia, and the Balearic island of Mallorca.
In Mallorca, off the coast of eastern Spain, demonstrators marched through the streets of the capital city of Palma de Mallorca and used water guns on tourists, protesting overtourism and the sharp rise of the local cost of living, an ongoing issue.
Protestors also gathered in Portugal's capital of Lisbon and across Italian cities like Milan and Venice. Some held signs with messages such as "Lisbon against touristification" and "As you come, I have to go."
Why are there anti-tourism protests?
Over the years, many residents have been driven out of tourist hotspots, especially with the growth of short-term rental apartments catering to visitors.
Increased tourism has also ushered in major travel corporations, pushing out small businesses.
What are countries doing to address the problem?
As local backlash to tourism spreads, some countries are taking action against companies like Airbnb, a giant in the short-term rental industry, and charging or raising fees to access certain regions.
In Barcelona, local officials announced last summer they would cancel over 10,000 permits for short-term residences by 2028, the Associated Press reported, and would increase daily tourist taxes for cruise passengers visiting for less than 12 hours.
The Italian hotspot of Venice also began charging tourists entrance fees last spring, in an effort to combat overtourism.
Pompeii, meanwhile, began limiting the number of tourists who could visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site in November 2024, capping the limit at 20,000 people per day.
What are the current travel advisories?
Italy and Spain have been under a Level 2 travel advisory since May "due to terrorism and civil unrest," according to the State Department, which urged travelers to "exercise increased caution" when visiting.
Since March, Portugal has remained under a Level 1 travel advisory, with tourists advised to take "normal precautions" while visiting.
Precautions to take when traveling under a Level 2 travel advisory
The State Department urges Americans to take these steps when traveling in countries like Italy and Spain:
- Be aware of your surroundings, and be alert in tourist areas.
- Avoid large gatherings, and be cautious if you unexpectedly find yourself in the area of a large gathering or protest.
- Check local media for breaking news and updates. Be prepared to change your plans.
- Follow authorities' instructions and signs regarding closures and detours.
- Keep a low profile.
- Sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and messages from the U.S. Embassy.
- Review the Country Security Report for Italy.
- Prepare a plan for emergency situations. Follow the State Department's Traveler's Checklist.
- Check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's website for the most up-to-date Travel Health Information.
