A travel expert has revealed the four popular destinations that she found to be way too overcrowded and chaotic when she visited them on holiday – here’s what she said
It appears that those searching for a serene vacation might want to steer clear of certain hotspots – as a travel expert has recently revealed a list of European destinations that become unbearably crowded during the summer months.
The seasoned traveller has warned about the overwhelming numbers of tourists swamping some of the continent’s most beloved sites. Even the world-renowned cities like Barcelona have resorted to hiking up tourist taxes in an effort to deal with the influx of visitors.
According to a study by holidu, Dubrovnik finds itself as the globe’s most crammed tourist spots, with a staggering 30 sightseers per local. So, where else should you think twice before visiting in high season?
Sara Rodriguez, a savvy travel expert and the brain behind the ‘Madrid Traveling’ blog, spoke about four specific places she felt were just too jam-packed.
Positano, Italy
Positano, nestled on Italy’s picturesque Amalfi Coast, may offer beautiful seaside vistas, yet Sara described it as unnecessarily “hectic”.
She elaborated: “While undeniably beautiful with its colourful buildings and seaside views, the narrow streets were packed shoulder to shoulder with other sightseers.
“The atmosphere felt more hectic than idyllic and prices were inflated for tourists. I left feeling like I never got to experience the real Positano beyond the chaotic surface.”
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam didn’t escape her scrutiny either, reports the Express. The Dutch capital, besieged by overcrowding, has been actively trying to dissuade stag dos from making their mark on the city.
Sara expressed her distaste for how: “The city centre was overrun with rowdy bachelor parties riding bikes through crowded streets. The museums were packed and reservations at restaurants were impossible to get.”
Paris, France
And it seems even the romantic allure of Paris, France, isn’t immune from the unmanageable throngs. Paris is known as a romantic hotspot, but Sara’s experience was anything but enchanting.
She said: “The congested boulevards of Paris and the never-ending line-ups at attractions like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre strained my patience.
“I didn’t really enjoy the atmosphere as much as I was waiting to take shots.”
Mykonos, Greece
Meanwhile, her escapade to Mykonos left her longing for quiet. Sara lamented: “When I finally went to the Greek island, I thought it would be a tranquil haven.
“Even while it was breathtakingly gorgeous, I felt that partygoers and inebriated vacationers overshadowed it. The restaurants were expensive and the beaches were noisy.”