Netherlands Joins Greece, France, Croatia, Austria, and Germany in a Battle to Save Local Culture and Tradition: Is Overtourism Really the Reason? Find Out

Published on November 15, 2025

Netherlands joins Greece, France, Croatia, Austria, and Germany in a growing battle to protect local culture and traditions. These countries, all beloved for their unique heritage and cultural landmarks, are facing the negative impacts of overtourism. As tourism continues to grow, local communities are being displaced, and traditional lifestyles are being overshadowed by mass tourism. Overcrowding, infrastructure strain, and environmental damage are taking their toll. The Netherlands, like its European counterparts, is grappling with the effects of overtourism. Cities like Amsterdam are experiencing this firsthand, where the city’s charm is being diluted by the sheer number of visitors. The question remains: Is overtourism truly the root cause of these challenges, or are other factors also at play? The struggle to preserve authenticity while welcoming visitors is becoming more urgent. Let’s explore how these countries are tackling this issue and what can be done.”

1. Amsterdam, Netherlands: Overcrowding and Cultural Displacement

Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting millions of visitors every year. Known for its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and vibrant culture, the city has become a symbol of overtourism. However, the city’s success as a tourist hub has come with significant consequences for local residents and the city’s cultural landscape.

Overcrowding and Housing Shortages

One of the most pressing issues in Amsterdam is overcrowding. Popular tourist spots, such as the Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum, and Van Gogh Museum, are often packed with tourists, leading to long queues and a diminished experience for visitors. But the overcrowding extends beyond tourist attractions. The rise of short-term rental platforms like Airbnb has further exacerbated the problem by taking away much-needed housing from the local population.

The influx of tourists has led to a reduction in the availability of long-term housing for Amsterdam’s residents, resulting in higher rents and the displacement of local families. In neighborhoods such as De Pijp and Jordaan, which once had a strong local identity with artisan shops, community cafés, and family-run businesses, there has been a shift toward businesses catering specifically to tourists. This change is slowly eroding the city’s authentic culture and identity.

Impact on Local Life and Culture

As the tourism industry continues to expand, the traditional charm of Amsterdam is being replaced by mass tourism services. Neighborhoods that once thrived with local life are now dominated by souvenir shops, hotels, and restaurants focused solely on serving tourists. The city’s canal-side cafés, once a gathering place for residents, now cater primarily to tourists. This shift from locally-focused commerce to tourism-driven enterprise impacts the cultural and social fabric of the city.

Moreover, infrastructure strain has become a significant issue. The city’s public transport system, already stressed by its growing population, is under additional pressure due to the large number of visitors. Waste management, noise pollution, and other urban issues are becoming more pronounced in tourist-heavy areas.

2. Greece: Santorini and Mykonos Struggle with Overcrowding

Greece is another European destination grappling with the challenges of overtourism, particularly on its islands. Santorini and Mykonos, two of the most famous Greek islands, have seen a significant rise in visitor numbers over the years. While tourism has undoubtedly boosted the local economy, it has also led to the erosion of local culture and traditional ways of life.

Santorini’s Struggles with Overdevelopment

Santorini, known for its stunning views, whitewashed buildings, and iconic blue-domed churches, has faced major challenges due to overdevelopment and overcrowding. The demand for short-term tourist accommodations has led to the transformation of traditional homes and businesses into vacation rentals. This shift has displaced local residents and disrupted the traditional way of life on the island.

As a result, local crafts, fishing traditions, and community celebrations are increasingly sidelined in favor of tourism-driven enterprises. Many local artisans have been replaced by souvenir shops catering to tourists. Traditional Greek festivals and community events are becoming less about the locals and more about creating experiences for tourists.

Mykonos Faces Environmental and Social Strain

Similarly, Mykonos has been experiencing its third consecutive year of tourist decline, largely due to overdevelopment and overcrowding. While the island has reaped the economic rewards of tourism, it has also faced environmental strain, waste management issues, and the shift in community identity. Mykonos is known for its vibrant nightlife and luxury tourism, but these elements are slowly overshadowing the island’s traditional charm.

Cultural festivals and local events are increasingly tailored to the needs of tourists, rather than the local community, diminishing the authenticity of these experiences. As more businesses cater to tourists, the island’s unique character is at risk of being lost to mass tourism.

3. France: Paris and the French Riviera Strain Under Tourism’s Weight

Paris, the city of lights, has long attracted millions of visitors from around the world. However, overtourism is starting to take its toll on the city, particularly in areas like Montmartre. This once-charming neighborhood, known for its narrow cobblestone streets and local cafes, has become increasingly overrun by tourist-oriented businesses, such as souvenir shops and selfie stations. This shift is diluting the authentic atmosphere of the neighborhood, making it feel more like a theme park than a vibrant Parisian community.

Overcrowding at Iconic Cultural Landmarks

Overcrowding has also affected the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Louvre Museum. Visitors report long queues, limited personal space, and general discomfort, diminishing the experience of one of the world’s most famous museums. The strain on the museum’s infrastructure has become apparent, affecting its ability to provide a high-quality experience for visitors. Locals in Paris, particularly in tourist-heavy areas, are growing frustrated with the disruptions to their daily lives, as they feel overwhelmed by the constant flow of visitors.

The French Riviera and the Rise of Cruise Tourism

Similarly, the French Riviera, with its glamorous beaches and luxurious towns like Cannes, has seen an influx of cruise ship passengers and large tour groups. This has led to overcrowded beaches, overwhelmed local businesses, and a dilution of the region’s cultural heritage. The commercialization of iconic sites along the Riviera has shifted the focus away from local culture to mass tourism, leaving residents to navigate the challenges of maintaining their cultural identity in the face of commercial pressure.

4. Dubrovnik, Croatia: Overcrowding in a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has become a prime example of overtourism in Croatia. The city’s medieval walls and old town have been overwhelmed by an increasing number of visitors, often far outnumbering the local population. This surge in tourists has led to the replacement of local shops with souvenir outlets and the commercialization of cultural landmarks.

Cultural Erosion and Strain on Local Life

The narrow streets of Dubrovnik’s Old Town are now congested with tour groups and cruise ship passengers, creating strain on both the infrastructure and the local way of life. While tourism has brought economic benefits, the loss of local character and culture is becoming increasingly apparent. Local residents have voiced concerns that the city is losing its soul, as traditional businesses and community spaces are replaced by tourist-driven enterprises.

5. Hallstatt, Austria: Overcrowding from Day Trippers

Hallstatt, an idyllic village in Austria, has become a victim of overtourism. Known for its stunning alpine lake views, Hallstatt has attracted tourists from around the world, but the increasing number of day-trippers has overwhelmed its small infrastructure. The village, with a resident population of just over 700, sees thousands of visitors each day, clogging its narrow streets and creating a less enjoyable experience for both locals and tourists.

Loss of Local Identity and Heritage

The charm of Hallstatt, once centered around its local culture and community life, is now overshadowed by the demands of mass tourism. Traditional businesses that once served both locals and visitors are now focused almost entirely on tourists, further eroding the village’s authenticity. The village’s identity is shifting from a peaceful, picturesque location to an Instagram hotspot, with visitors increasingly viewing it as a backdrop for photos rather than a living, breathing community.

6. Berlin and Munich, Germany: Cultural Erosion from Mass Tourism

In Germany, both Berlin and Munich are facing overtourism challenges, especially during peak seasons. Berlin, in particular, has seen significant gentrification driven by short-term rentals and tourism, which has displaced long-time residents and local businesses. Areas like Kreuzberg have undergone significant changes, with traditional, resident-focused businesses replaced by tourist-oriented establishments. This has resulted in the loss of cultural authenticity, as the city becomes more focused on catering to tourists rather than preserving its unique local character.

In Munich, the Oktoberfest season has become a symbol of overtourism, with the commercialization of traditional cultural events diluting their authenticity. Both cities are struggling to balance the economic benefits of tourism with the preservation of local culture and traditions.

Europe’s Fight Against Overtourism: Preserving Culture

Overtourism is a growing concern across Europe, with many popular destinations struggling to maintain their unique identities, traditions, and cultural heritage in the face of overwhelming visitor numbers. While tourism contributes significantly to the economy, the increasing pressure from mass tourism is leading to overcrowded cities, displacement of local communities, environmental degradation, and the commercialization of culture. In response, several European countries are implementing strategic measures to curb overtourism and preserve their local cultures. This article explores the specific efforts taken by the Netherlands, Greece, France, Croatia, Austria, and Germany to protect their cultural landscapes and local communities.

1. Netherlands, Amsterdam: Fighting Overcrowding & Displacement

Amsterdam, known for its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and vibrant culture, is one of the most iconic tourist destinations in Europe. However, the city’s success as a major tourism hub has resulted in significant challenges. Overcrowding, housing shortages, and cultural displacement have become pressing issues for local residents.

Overcrowding and Housing Shortages

The rise in tourism has led to a significant increase in short-term rental platforms, such as Airbnb, causing a reduction in available housing for local residents. This has driven up rent prices and displaced many long-time inhabitants, forcing them to move further from the city center. Traditional neighborhoods, which once featured artisan shops and community cafes, are now dominated by businesses catering primarily to tourists.

Amsterdam’s popularity has also caused severe overcrowding at major tourist attractions, such as the Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum, and Van Gogh Museum. These overcrowded sites often result in long queues and a diminished experience for visitors, while local services struggle to accommodate the increased number of tourists.

Cultural Displacement and Strain on Local Infrastructure

As the city’s tourism sector continues to expand, local life is being disrupted. Neighborhoods that were once vibrant and authentic are becoming increasingly tourist-oriented. Canal-side cafes, once popular among locals, are now primarily catering to tourists, further eroding the city’s cultural authenticity. Additionally, public infrastructure, including transportation and waste management systems, is under immense pressure, with increasing concerns about the environmental impact of mass tourism.

Initiatives to Address Overtourism:

• The “Tourism in Balance” program aims to cap overnight stays and day visitors. If tourist numbers exceed 18 million overnight stays per year, the city will intervene to keep numbers below 20 million.
• A ban on new hotel construction has been introduced, allowing new hotels only if another hotel closes, ensuring that total bed capacity does not increase.
• Restrictions on short-term rentals and limitations on tourist-focused businesses, such as banning new tourist shops in central zones, have been enforced.
• The city has implemented campaigns to redirect or discourage nuisance tourism, such as limiting party tourism and large groups, while also raising tourist taxes to manage demand.

These efforts aim to maintain Amsterdam’s local character, ensure the sustainability of tourism, and protect the city’s cultural heritage.

2. Greece: Santorini & Mykonos Face Tourism Strain

Greece’s Santorini and Mykonos islands are prime examples of destinations overwhelmed by tourism. These islands, known for their stunning views, whitewashed buildings, and picturesque landscapes, have become increasingly commercialized as mass tourism has taken over. The traditional way of life on these islands is being disrupted by rising rent prices, environmental strain, and the transformation of local homes into tourist accommodations.

Santorini’s Struggles with Overdevelopment

Santorini’s beauty has made it one of the top travel destinations in the world, but the rapid rise in visitor numbers has led to overdevelopment. Many residential properties are now converted into vacation rentals, displacing local residents and affecting the island’s authentic character. Local crafts, fishing traditions, and community events are gradually being sidelined in favor of tourism-driven businesses.

Mykonos Faces Environmental and Social Strain

Similarly, Mykonos is experiencing increasing pressures from tourism. The island, famous for its nightlife and luxury tourism, has been growing at a rapid pace. However, this growth has led to overcrowding, waste management issues, and a loss of local identity. Cultural events that once celebrated the island’s traditions are now being tailored to cater to tourists, leaving behind the authenticity that once defined Mykonos.

Initiatives to Address Overtourism:

• Greece is shifting its strategy by targeting wealthier, lower-volume visitors to reduce pressure on infrastructure in places like Corfu.
• A seasonal disembarkation fee has been introduced for cruise passengers, with higher fees during peak months and lower fees in the off-season. Revenue from this fee is allocated to port maintenance, waste management, and crowd control.
• National documents, such as those from INSETE, emphasize the importance of sustainable tourism, diversification of the tourist season, and protection of heritage sites across Greek islands.

These efforts aim to preserve local culture while managing the impact of tourism on the environment and community life.

3. France: Paris & Riviera Combat Tourist Pressure

France, a top global destination for tourists, has been grappling with overtourism, particularly in Paris and the French Riviera. As the number of tourists continues to grow, the cultural identity of these regions is at risk.

Paris Faces Overcrowding in Iconic Neighborhoods

In Paris, neighborhoods like Montmartre are suffering from overtourism. Once known for its traditional artisans and local cafes, Montmartre has now become overrun with tourist-oriented businesses, such as souvenir shops and selfie stations. This shift has diluted the area’s cultural authenticity, turning it into more of a theme park for tourists than a vibrant Parisian neighborhood.

Overcrowding has also affected the city’s famous landmarks, such as the Louvre Museum, where long queues and a strain on infrastructure have diminished the experience for both visitors and locals. The overwhelming number of tourists has disrupted daily life, causing frustration among residents.

The French Riviera and the Impact of Mass Tourism

Similarly, the French Riviera is facing challenges due to cruise tourism and large tour groups. Popular destinations like Cannes are becoming increasingly overcrowded, with beaches and towns inundated by tourists. This has led to a shift from local culture to a tourism-driven economy, causing residents to feel pushed out of prime areas.

Initiatives to Address Overtourism:

• The French government has rolled out a national plan to better regulate visitor flows, with a focus on spreading tourism more evenly across the country and reducing overcrowding at major sites.
• Restrictions on short-term vacation rentals have been introduced, allowing local authorities to regulate the number of rental nights and enforce penalties for non-compliance.
• In Cannes, starting in 2026, there will be a cap on daily cruise ship disembarkations, with a maximum of 6,000 passengers allowed per day to reduce the strain on local resources.

These measures are aimed at preserving the cultural integrity of French destinations while ensuring that tourism continues to benefit local economies.

4. Croatia: Dubrovnik’s Battle Against Mass Tourism

Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has become one of Europe’s most overtouristed cities. The historic old town, once a peaceful locale for locals, has now been overwhelmed by tourists. The influx of visitors has led to commercialization of cultural landmarks and the replacement of local shops with souvenir outlets.

Impact on Local Life and Culture

The narrow streets of Dubrovnik’s Old Town are often packed with tour groups and cruise ship passengers, causing congestion and strain on infrastructure. While the tourism sector has brought economic benefits, the loss of local character and cultural authenticity is a growing concern among residents. Many fear that their beloved city is losing its soul, as traditional businesses are replaced by tourism-driven enterprises.

Initiatives to Address Overtourism:

• Dubrovnik has adopted an Integrated Action Plan to tackle overtourism, which includes measures such as limiting the number of cruise ship arrivals and regulating short-term accommodation.
• The city is also working with the EU’s Sustainable EU Tourism program to adopt best practices and ensure the long-term viability of its tourism industry.

5. Austria, Hallstatt: Protecting Alpine Charm

The picturesque village of Hallstatt, Austria, has become a victim of overtourism. Known for its stunning lake views and alpine charm, Hallstatt has attracted large numbers of tourists, particularly day-trippers, overwhelming the village’s small infrastructure.

Cultural and Social Strain

The increasing volume of visitors has created congestion in Hallstatt’s narrow streets, reducing the overall experience for both locals and tourists. The village’s authenticity and local identity are at risk as it becomes more of an Instagram destination than a living community.

Initiatives to Address Overtourism:

• Hallstatt has implemented local measures to manage the influx of day-trippers, such as limits on bus parking, visitor coaching, and infrastructure regulations that aim to balance tourism with local life.
• Austria participates in the EU’s Sustainable Tourism initiative, supporting regional destinations like Hallstatt in managing tourism’s impact and preserving local heritage.

6. Germany: Berlin & Munich’s Cultural Struggles

Germany’s major cities, particularly Berlin and Munich, are facing the challenges of overtourism. The rise in short-term rentals and mass tourism has led to gentrification and cultural displacement in areas such as Kreuzberg in Berlin.

Impact on Local Culture

Traditional local businesses are being replaced by tourist-oriented establishments, leading to a loss of the authentic character that once defined these neighborhoods. In Munich, the Oktoberfest season has become a symbol of overtourism, with the commercialization of what was once a traditional cultural event. The constant influx of tourists into iconic areas like Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate or Munich’s Marienplatz has resulted in a sense of cultural displacement for local residents.

Initiatives to Address Overtourism:

• Berlin has introduced measures such as regulations on short-term rentals (Airbnb) and higher tourist taxes in certain neighborhoods.
• Germany is also promoting sustainable urban tourism frameworks, with an emphasis on balancing tourism growth with the preservation of local culture and heritage.

Conclusion: The Urgent Need for Sustainable Tourism

In conclusion, the Netherlands, alongside Greece, France, Croatia, Austria, and Germany, is facing an urgent challenge to preserve its local culture and traditions. The rise of overtourism has caused significant disruptions to local communities and their way of life, as the demands of mass tourism lead to overcrowding, infrastructure strain, and environmental damage. As tourism continues to grow, the need to strike a balance between welcoming visitors and maintaining the authenticity of these beloved destinations has never been more critical. Whether overtourism is the sole cause or whether there are additional factors at play, it is clear that a more sustainable approach to tourism is necessary to ensure the preservation of these unique cultural landmarks for future generations.