Protests targeting mass tourism have taken place across southern Europe, with demonstrators using creative methods like water pistols and suitcases to draw attention to rising housing costs and the environmental toll of tourism. The protests, which were long-planned, involved thousands in cities such as Barcelona, Genoa, and Lisbon.
In Spain, activists used a “noisy stroll” of suitcases to make their point, while in Italy, protesters carried handmade effigies through the city center. The movement is driven by quality-of-life issues, including high housing costs and environmental damage caused by overtourism.
Organizers say the tourism model itself is to blame, prioritizing real estate and hotel industry profits over local residents’ needs. “Our enemy is not the tourist, but the speculators and exploiters who profit from tourism,” said one organizer.
The protests come as international arrivals in Europe increased nearly 5% in the first part of this year. However, some destinations have taken action, imposing new regulations and taxes on their tourism industries. For example, Barcelona plans to ban Airbnb rentals by late 2028, while officials in Palma announced an initiative to remove lounge chairs from local beaches.
While some travelers expressed anger towards protesters, many praised the movement for highlighting the need for sustainable tourism practices. The protests are a growing trend, with more cities joining in on the issue of overtourism and its impact on local communities.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/15/travel/europe-tourism-protests.html