Italy is gearing up for one of its busiest weekends as the annual Ferragosto holiday approaches, with about 13 million Italians expected to travel domestically alongside countless tourists. This influx has prompted local authorities to implement strict new rules to manage the crowds and preserve local tranquillity.
The Ferragosto holiday, rooted in ancient traditions dating back to the Roman Empire, coincides with the Feast of the Assumption, making it not only a time of celebration but also of potential chaos. To combat anticipated disruptions, popular destinations are adopting innovative measures ranging from app-based beach access to outright bans on certain items.
From Sardinia to Puglia, officials are enforcing crowd control through mandatory bookings to access crowded beaches. Access restrictions are also coupled with prohibitions on plastics and even smoking, aimed at enhancing the beach experience during the peak summer season.
On Sardinia, stricter rules are manifesting, including bans on night swimming, camping, and bonfires to curb the late-night festivities. Violators could be hit with substantial fines, with infractions like placing umbrellas anchored by rocks costing up to 500 euros, underscoring the seriousness of these regulations.
To manage pedestrian traffic more effectively, temporary stop lights have been erected at popular spots across Rome, Florence, and Venice. These measures aim to facilitate smoother flows and prevent selfie-taking tourists from causing blockages.
Meanwhile, the picturesque Amalfi Coast has joined the ranks, with plans to limit car traffic on narrow roads by alternating access based on license plate numbers. This effort is expected to significantly reduce congestion during the busiest hours of the day.
Even the access to hiking trails is being closely monitored, with some areas in northern Italy’s Trentino region planning to close trails if they become too crowded. This approach aims to preserve the natural beauty of these landscapes, all too often marred by overtourism.
Hiking isn't the only outdoor activity impacted; the cruise sector is also feeling the pressures of this peak travel period. A significant surge is predicted with more than 65,000 passengers arriving on six cruise ships docking at Genoa leading up to and following August 15.
Italy’s tourism minister, Daniele Santanché, acknowledged the challenges of overtourism, labeling it “blasphemy” and emphasizing the importance of managing tourist numbers. Her plans include diversifying tourism offerings and focusing on lesser-known destinations to alleviate the burden on popular hotspots.
There’s optimism for the future, as Santanché mentioned upcoming events like the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics and the 2025 Jubilee festival, which could boost lesser-known areas and create opportunities for sustainable tourism growth.
Shifting gears, Gozo, Malta, stands out as another appealing European destination particularly with its exceptional September weather. While the summer crowds fade, daily temperatures can still reach up to 29 degrees Celsius, providing perfect beach conditions for visitors seeking year-round sun.
Gozo offers stunning landscapes, historical sites, and tranquil beaches, inviting tourists to explore its UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Ggantija Temples and the picturesque Dwejra Bay. Despite its small size, this island is rich with history and charm, making it a must-visit for travelers.
Getting to Gozo requires taking ferry services from Malta, establishing this destination as perfect for day trips or longer stays. Its inviting atmosphere, coupled with affordable accommodation options, makes it particularly attractive for budget-conscious tourists.
More recently, the spotlight has turned to Bosnia and Herzegovina, highlighted as one of Europe’s most underrated budget destinations. British TikToker Em, known for her expertise on budget travel, recently revealed her incredible expense of only £158.44 for flights, food, and activities during her stay.
The highlight of Em’s trip was the capital city of Sarajevo, which she opined melds historical richness with modern amenities, creating a wonderful experience for visitors. Exploring beyond the capital, she also recommended the historical town of Mostar, renowned for its iconic Stari Most bridge.
With its stunning scenery, rich culture, and extremely low travel costs, Bosnia and Herzegovina appeals to those seeking both adventure and savings. Particularly attractive are the four-star hotels, costing as little as £45 per night, ensuring travelers can enjoy luxury without breaking the bank.
Coupled with trendy European cities experiencing some overcrowding, less visited destinations like Gozo and Bosnia may provide more relaxed alternatives, enhancing the joy of travel during peak vacation times. Overall, Italy's measures, alongside the dazzling opportunities within Malta and Bosnia, outline exciting patterns in European travel trends.
Moving forward, future travelers are encouraged to explore not only the well-trodden paths but also the hidden gems, which can provide authentic experiences at affordable prices. The growing focus on sustainable tourism will also shape European travel, directing attention to preservation efforts and collaborative initiatives.
