Anti-tourist protests led by locals have erupted across Europe this summer, with governments in popular holiday destinations like Barcelona and Venice imposing restrictions designed to tackle " overtourism ". Residents have confronted visitors with placards and water pistols to protest at high visitor numbers, which they blame for overcrowding, reduced quality of life, depletion of natural resources, and housing costs that are out of reach for locals. The protests are a "broader reflection of tourism that is not sustainably managed", Antje Martins, a sustainable tourism expert from the University of Queensland, told CNN .
The problems with tourism aren't personal, they're structural, she adds. The good news for conscious travellers hoping to unwind without worsening life for local residents is that there are plenty of destinations that are welcoming tourists with open arms in 2024. Aveiro, Portugal If the complex politics around tourists in Barcelona have steered you away, but you are still craving a sunny city break, look across the Iberian peninsula at Aveiro in Portugal.
The coastal city is known for its rich history, iconic striped beach houses, and impressive canal system – a feature that has seen Aveiro dubbed "the Venice of Portugal". Colourful boats called barcos moliceiros "used to collect seaweed and now tend to ferry tourists", said Mary Lussiana in The Telegraph . Aveiro is one of many destinations along Europe's Atlantic coast that are often overlooked in favou.