Portofino Joins Rome, Venice, Amsterdam, Barcelona in Taking Severe Steps in Fighting Against Overtourism with Hefty Fines, Entry Fees and New Stringent Rules for Tourists, Latest Update is Here on Mass Tourism War

Published on December 22, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

Portofino has officially joined iconic cities like Rome, Venice, Amsterdam, and Barcelona in taking severe steps against overtourism. In a bold move, the picturesque Italian town is now implementing hefty fines, maximum entry fees, and stringent new rules for international tourists to curb the growing problem of mass tourism or overtourism.

Portofino, once a peaceful fishing village, has seen its streets overcrowded with selfie-seekers, causing major disruptions to local life. As part of the ongoing war against mass tourism, these new measures aim to protect the town’s heritage while still welcoming visitors. Find out how these cities are fighting back against overtourism and what it means for future travelers.

The Overcrowding Crisis: How Europe’s Most Iconic Cities Are Fighting Overtourism with Fines, Entry Fees, and New Regulations

Overtourism has become one of the biggest issues facing Europe’s top tourist destinations. With millions flocking to cities like Venice, Barcelona, and Amsterdam, the sheer volume of visitors is overwhelming local infrastructure, affecting quality of life, and damaging cultural heritage. As a result, European governments are introducing a host of measures aimed at reducing the strain on these beloved locations. From entry fees to tourist taxes, and even fines for disruptive behaviour, European hotspots are fighting back. Let’s explore how 2025 is shaping up to be the year of change for travelers, with cities across the continent introducing innovative measures to balance tourism with sustainability.

Portofino Takes Drastic Action Against Overtourism with £242 Selfie Fines

One of Italy’s most stunning seaside towns, Portofino, has introduced a bold measure to combat the over-tourism crisis that has plagued the picturesque fishing village. Known for its beautiful harbour and as a hotspot for the rich and famous, including legends like Frank Sinatra and Elizabeth Taylor, Portofino has long been a popular destination for tourists seeking a glimpse of luxury. However, with the rise of social media, the once peaceful town has become overwhelmed with crowds of selfie-seeking visitors.

In a move that has caught the attention of the world, local authorities in Portofino have introduced fines for tourists who stop to take pictures for too long in certain parts of the town. These areas, which have been designated as “no-waiting zones”, include the iconic Piazzetta and the area surrounding the harbour. Tourists caught lingering in these zones for the perfect photo now face fines of up to €275 (around £242).

The town’s decision to implement this penalty is aimed at reducing the “human traffic jams” caused by tourists blocking narrow streets, often disrupting both local life and other visitors. Portofino, a once peaceful village, has become so congested with tourists, especially during the summer months, that the town has had to take drastic steps to restore some level of balance and protect the environment and local culture.

Tourists have been warned that taking selfies or posing for pictures in the “red zones” — areas where tourists tend to gather and block pedestrian traffic — will no longer be tolerated. The new measures are a direct response to the town’s struggle with sustainability and the social challenges of mass tourism.

Portofino’s decision to introduce these fines represents a growing trend across Europe, where popular destinations are looking for innovative ways to protect their cultural and natural heritage from the strain of overcrowding. While these measures are certainly strict, they reflect the rising urgency of tackling overtourism in some of the most beloved spots on the continent.

Ticket Information for Trevi Fountain and Other Roman Fountains in 2025

The iconic Trevi Fountain in Rome, Italy, one of the most visited tourist attractions in the world, is implementing new entry regulations in 2025. Starting February 1, 2026, tourists will need to pay a €2 entry fee to access the steps and the area directly in front of the fountain. This fee is part of an effort to control overcrowding and maintain the delicate structure of the monument, which attracts millions of visitors annually. The fee will be applied on high‑traffic days and can be paid online, with advance booking required. For those who prefer not to pay, the fountain can still be seen from the surrounding piazza, free of charge.

However, entry to the Trevi Fountain’s main viewing area is not the only cost visitors might face. Many tourists opt for guided walking tours that include the fountain as part of the itinerary, which can cost anywhere between €25–€50, depending on the package. Additionally, visitors can gain access to underground archaeological sites, such as the Vicus Caprarius beneath the fountain, which also requires separate ticket purchases, usually around €10. These extra attractions provide a deeper dive into the history of Rome’s water systems and ancient infrastructure.

It’s important to note that while the Trevi Fountain is imposing new fees for close‑up access, most other Roman fountains, such as the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi in Piazza Navona or the Fountain of Triton in the Villa Borghese Gardens, remain free to visit. These fountains are part of the city’s public space and are not subject to the same tourist entry fees.

Overall, the new €2 fee for the Trevi Fountain reflects a growing trend across European cities to manage the impact of overtourism while ensuring visitors still have access to the beauty and history of these iconic landmarks.

Venice: A City in Crisis – The Day-Visitor Fee That’s Reshaping Tourism

Venice, Italy, long hailed as one of Europe’s most romantic destinations, is one of the first cities to implement a day-visitor entry fee to combat the increasing pressure of mass tourism. In 2025, Venice began charging visitors €5–€10 to enter the historic centre on high-traffic days. While this measure is aimed at curbing overcrowding, it also forces visitors to plan ahead. Those who fail to book in advance could face fines of up to €300. For those who can’t bear to miss out on Venice’s beauty, this might be a small price to pay. The fee applies on peak travel days—54 days in total throughout 2025—ensuring that visitors have a more comfortable and sustainable experience.

The move to introduce this entry fee is part of a broader strategy to reduce the strain on Venice’s delicate infrastructure and world-renowned cultural sites. But critics argue it’s not enough. With 6 million tourists visiting Venice annually, the question remains—can one entry fee truly save a city on the brink? Only time will tell.

Barcelona: Raising Taxes to Protect the City’s Soul

Barcelona, one of Europe’s most visited cities, is also in the midst of fighting overtourism. The city has introduced a tourist accommodation tax, which in 2025, is set to increase. Now, tourists staying in hotels and short-term rentals like Airbnb will face higher taxes per night. The goal? To curb the overdevelopment of tourist accommodations, regulate short-term rentals, and fund the city’s infrastructure. These measures have caused significant backlash, with many visitors now forced to pay €4 per night during their stay.

But that’s not all. Cruise ship tourism has also been targeted. Barcelona has enacted restrictions on the number of cruise ships allowed to dock at the city’s busy terminals. In addition, environmental taxes are being introduced, especially in high-traffic districts like the Gothic Quarter. This move is expected to tackle the growing problem of mass tourism by reducing cruise passenger arrivals. As more cities follow suit, will this be the new norm for European hotspots struggling with overtourism?

Greece: Mykonos and Santorini Introduce Passenger Levies

Greek islands like Santorini and Mykonos are taking drastic steps to prevent overexploitation by mass tourism. Cruise ships, long known for their contribution to overtourism in the Aegean Sea, are now charged a €20 levy per passenger, effective from 2025. This initiative aims to distribute the financial burden of overcrowded ports and limited resources more fairly. Although these fees are targeted at cruise passengers, they represent a growing trend across Europe where day-trippers are being asked to pay for the privilege of visiting highly vulnerable destinations.

As part of Greece’s broader tourist management efforts, other islands are expected to follow in the footsteps of Mykonos and Santorini. In the coming years, these levies may become a regular feature of the Greek tourism landscape, transforming the way international tourists approach island vacations.

The Netherlands: Amsterdam’s Accommodation Tax and Cruise Passenger Charges

Amsterdam has long been a popular destination for travelers from around the world. However, with so many visitors flocking to the city’s canals, museums, and historic sites, Amsterdam is facing a growing overtourism problem. In 2025, Amsterdam raised its tourist accommodation tax to 12.5% on the cost of staying at a hotel. This is one of the highest rates in Europe and is aimed at generating additional revenue to tackle the negative impacts of mass tourism. The tax is applied to all visitors staying in hotels, Airbnbs, and hostels.

Additionally, Amsterdam is now imposing a cruise passenger charge of €14.50 per person for those arriving by cruise ship. This new policy aims to reduce the impact of mass arrivals at the city’s terminal, helping to alleviate congestion and environmental damage caused by large cruise ships. Amsterdam’s measures are part of a wider strategy to balance the economic benefits of tourism with sustainable urban development.

Spain: Balearic Islands’ Eco-Taxes and Accommodation Restrictions

The Balearic Islands, including Mallorca and Ibiza, are following a growing trend in Europe of introducing eco-taxes for tourists. These taxes, introduced in 2025, are levied on visitors who stay in hotels and short-term rentals. The funds collected are used to finance environmental protection programs, as well as infrastructure improvements needed to support the local population and environment, which is increasingly under pressure from mass tourism.

In addition to the eco-taxes, the Balearics are also imposing restrictions on new hotel developments and short-term rental licenses, particularly in high-demand areas like Mallorca. These measures aim to reduce the amount of tourism that has caused environmental damage and has overwhelmed local resources in the past. By restricting tourist numbers, the Balearics hope to preserve their natural beauty while still benefiting from tourism’s economic contributions.

France: Tackling Overtourism Through Behavioural Fines and Restrictions

Paris, Nice, and other French cities are also tightening their grip on mass tourism with new behavioural fines. In 2025, France introduced new laws that impose fines of up to €114 for smoking in public spaces, like beaches and parks, to maintain a clean and healthy environment. This may seem trivial, but it represents a shift towards more behavioural regulation for tourists who engage in activities that harm the local environment or disturb public peace.

In addition, Paris is imposing fines on tourists who engage in public disturbances such as illegal camping, public drinking, and disruptive behaviour in popular tourist spots like Montmartre and the Eiffel Tower. These fines are part of a wider push by France to ensure that tourists contribute positively to the local experience.

The Future of Overtourism: Will Entry Fees and Fines Be Enough?

As European cities struggle with overtourism, entry fees, tourist taxes, and fines represent just the beginning of a larger conversation about the future of travel. While these measures aim to address immediate challenges like overcrowding and infrastructure strain, they also raise important questions about the long-term sustainability of mass tourism.

In the coming years, more cities will likely follow the examples set by Venice, Barcelona, and Amsterdam, creating new systems of regulation and taxation. These measures may help to reduce visitor numbers, but will they truly solve the problem? Only time will tell. What’s clear is that travelers will need to adapt to this new reality of tourism, where enjoying Europe’s iconic landmarks may come at a higher cost—and with new rules to follow.