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Taxes, Caps and Bans Are Still Europe’s Answer to Overtourism in 2025
As the travel industry continues to boom, many European destinations are struggling with overtourism, a phenomenon that has put immense pressure on infrastructure, resources, and local communities. To address this issue, governments across the continent are introducing various measures, including taxes, caps, and bans.
In Greece, the Hellenic Port Authority announced plans to extend the 2025 cruise season from February to December, in an effort to distribute the numbers and alleviate pressure on popular islands like Mykonos. The move is expected to reduce overcrowding and provide a more sustainable tourism experience.
Meanwhile, Portugal has taken a different approach by introducing higher visitor levies across several municipalities. Lisbon doubled its Overnight Tourist Tax to €4 per person for hotel guests as of January 1, 2025, while Porto raised its tourist tax to €3 per person. The Portuguese News Agency (LUSA) reports that an astonishing 40 out of 308 municipalities in Portugal now levy a tourist tax.
In other developments, the UK is introducing an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme starting January 8, 2025. This will require eligible non-European travelers to obtain an ETA prior to arrival, which comes with a £10 fee that can be linked digitally to passports. The goal is to enhance security while streamlining travel for millions of visitors annually.
Wales and Scotland are also considering the implementation of tourist taxes or visitor levies in 2025. In Wales, a bill has been put under review by the Senedd, while the Highland Council in Scotland has proposed a 5% levy.
It’s clear that governments across Europe are taking drastic measures to address the overtourism crisis. Short-term rental licenses are also being restricted or banned altogether. In Athens, a ban on new short-term rental licenses took effect on January 1, 2025, targeting three central districts and aiming to mitigate housing shortages and local infrastructure strain.
While these steps may provide temporary relief from the pressure of overtourism, it’s crucial for policymakers to address the root causes of this problem. Can global travel continue to expand without compromising heritage and local quality of life? What else can be done to ensure European hotspots succeed in balancing economic growth with cultural preservation?
As we navigate the complexities of overtourism, one thing is clear: Europe needs a more comprehensive approach to manage tourism and support local development.
Sources:
[1] Forbes: “Taxes, Caps And Bans Are Still Europe’s Answer To Overtourism In 2025”
Source: http://www.forbes.com
