Italian towns such as Positano, Cinque Terre, Rome, and Venice are grappling with an unprecedented surge of holidaymakers, leading to chaotic scenes and local backlash. Streets are clogged with crowds, blocking access for residents and sparking complaints about the degradation of daily life. The issue has been exacerbated by 'eat and run' tourism, where day-trippers spend little money and contribute to overcrowding.

Positano's Sunny Walkways Turned Into Tourist Gridlock

Footage from Positano shows narrow walkways overflowing with tourists, many stopping abruptly to take photos, creating bottlenecks. Shopfronts are also blocked by eager visitors, making it difficult for locals to access their homes and businesses. Antonio Attianese, a resident of Nocera Inferiore , criticized local authorities for not addressing the issue, stating that the situation has worsened every year.

Cinque Terre's Rugged Coastline Suffers Under Tourist Strain

In Cinque Terre, tourists are seen piling onto buses and trains, further congesting the already crowded streets... The influx of visitors has led to complaints about the lack of space and the impact on the local community . former mayor of Positano, Salvatore Gagliano, described the overcrowding as 'scenes straight out of the Third World,' highlighting the severity of the problem.

Rome's Colosseum Surrounded by Endless Lines

Rome, another popular tourist destination, has been described as a 'hellscape' on social media. Videos show lines of hundreds of visitors stretching around the Colosseum, with more tourists filing in from stairs into the ancient street. The sheer volume of visitors has made it nearly impossible to navigate the city's iconic landmarks.

The Rise of 'Eat and Run' Tourism

Commentators have pointed to 'eat and run' tourism, or 'mordi e fuggi,' as particularly harmful. This type of tourism involves day-trippers who spend little money and buy cheap souvenirs, contributing to overcrowding without benefiting the local economy. The phenomenon has been a significant factor in the overcrowding issues faced by Italian towns.

Venice, Barcelona, and Dubrovnik: Europe's Overtourism Hotspots

Italy is not alone in its struggle with overtourism. Other major European destinations like Venice , Barcelona, and Dubrovnik also face similar problems. The influx of tourists has led to calls for better management and regulation to protect the quality of life for locals and the integrity of these historic sites.