Importance Score: 45 / 100 🔵
A recent study identifies Zakynthos as the most overcrowded tourist destination in Europe. The analysis, based on a ‘tourism pressure’ score calculated by the European Commission, compares tourist overnight stays with the resident population, revealing hotspots struggling with overtourism.
Europe’s Most Overcrowded Holiday Destination Revealed
Which? Travel scrutinized the European Commission’s data to pinpoint European getaways best avoided for those seeking tranquility during their vacations.
Zakynthos Tops the List
According to ‘tourism pressure’ metrics, Zakynthos, also known as Zante, officially leads the list of Europe’s most overcrowded holiday destinations. This Greek island has become a focal point of concern regarding sustainable tourism.
Resident vs. Tourist Numbers
Zante, the third-largest of the Ionian Islands in Greece, recorded approximately six million tourist overnight stays in 2023, despite having only 40,000 residents.
- During peak summer, tourists outnumbered locals by nearly 150 to 1.
- The island is renowned for its vibrant nightlife and is a prime location for European party holidays.
Zakynthos is officially the most overcrowded holiday destination in Europe, according to ‘tourism pressure’ figures
The Greek island, known as Zante, has 40,000 residents, while tourists accounted for six million overnight stays in 2023
The island’s most prominent resort locations are Laganas (pictured), Kalamaki, Tsilivi, Argassi, and Alkinas
Which? acknowledges that the majority of Zante’s tourists tend to congregate at the ‘expansive, lively resorts’ situated along the island’s southern coast.
Principal resort areas includes:
- Laganas
- Kalamaki
- Tsilivi
- Argassi
- Alkinas
Responsible Travel emphasizes Zakynthos’s struggle to manage millions of annual visitors and its impact on island resources.
The company claims:
- ‘Ferries become overloaded with individuals and luggage during peak season.’
- ‘Roads, ports, and airports experience increased traffic.’
- ‘Waste disposal systems and electrical grids are strained due to the high influx of people.’
Other Destinations Facing Overtourism
Zakynthos is not the sole European vacation spot grappling with overtourism.
Majorca, as stated by Which?, also contends with overtourism. The Balearic island averages 54 overnight stays per resident.
To manage visitor numbers, the Spanish island has implemented a tourist tax. Which? advises bypassing the island altogether during the busiest months of July and August.