15 overcrowded travel spots to skip in 2025—and where to go instead

Escape the crowds with sustainable travel and hidden gems in 2025. (Image: Canva)

Traveling is an enriching experience, but when destinations become victims of their own popularity, the effects can be devastating. Overtourism leads to environmental harm, cultural erosion, and strained local infrastructure, making it essential for travelers to seek alternatives that promote sustainability and unique experiences.

Here's a deeper dive into Fodor's list of 15 overcrowded destinations to avoid in 2025, along with lesser-known alternatives to explore instead.

Escape the crowds of Bali by exploring Lombok's tranquil beaches and unspoiled waterfalls. (Image: Canva)

1. Bali, Indonesia: Bali’s breathtaking beaches and temples attract millions of tourists annually, resulting in traffic congestion, polluted waterways, and diminishing natural beauty.
Where to Go Instead: Lombok, Indonesia – Just a short trip from Bali, Lombok offers an untouched paradise with tranquil beaches, unspoiled waterfalls, and Mount Rinjani for adventurous trekkers.

Avoid the bustling streets of Barcelona—Valencia offers stunning architecture and authentic charm. (Image: Canva)

2. Barcelona, Spain: The vibrant Catalonian city has long suffered from overtourism, leading to crowded streets, soaring housing costs, and resident protests.
Where to Go Instead: Valencia, Spain – Valencia provides a blend of history, art, and innovation, from the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences to serene beaches and authentic paella restaurants.

Ditch Mallorca's crowded beaches for Menorca's serene coastline and eco-friendly vibe. (Image: Canva)

3. Mallorca, Spain: A magnet for sun-seekers, Mallorca’s picturesque beaches are now frequently overrun, detracting from the island’s natural allure.
Where to Go Instead: Menorca, Spain – This smaller Balearic island is an eco-tourist haven, with protected marine reserves and charming whitewashed towns like Ciutadella.

Skip Venice's tourist-packed canals and enjoy Trieste's blend of Italian and Austro-Hungarian culture. (Image: Canva)

4. Venice, Italy: The floating city is buckling under the weight of tourists, with cruise ships and crowds threatening its delicate ecosystem.
Where to Go Instead: Trieste, Italy – Situated near the Slovenian border, Trieste boasts a mix of Italian and Central European cultures, with stunning seaside views and historic architecture.

Trade the Canary Islands for the Azores, a sustainable haven of volcanic beauty. (Image: Canva)

5. The Canary Islands, Spain: Mass tourism has strained the islands’ natural resources and endangered local ecosystems.
Where to Go Instead: Azores, Portugal – This archipelago offers a raw, volcanic landscape perfect for nature enthusiasts, with whale-watching, hiking, and geothermal springs.

Bypass Lisbon's tourist rush—Porto offers historic charm and world-famous wine. (Image: Canva)

6. Lisbon, Portugal: The Portuguese capital is facing overcrowding, gentrification, and a loss of its authentic charm due to unchecked tourism.
Where to Go Instead: Porto, Portugal – With its terraced vineyards, vibrant art scene, and historic Ribeira District, Porto delivers an equally captivating experience.

Swap Koh Samui’s overcrowded beaches for Koh Lipe's crystal-clear waters and coral reefs. (Image: Canva)

7. Koh Samui, Thailand: Once a tropical retreat, Koh Samui now battles polluted beaches and ecological damage from overdevelopment.
Where to Go Instead: Koh Lipe, Thailand – Known as the “Maldives of Thailand,” this small island offers crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and a laid-back vibe.

Skip Everest's overcrowded routes and trek the quieter Annapurna Circuit for breathtaking views. (Image: Canva)

8. Mount Everest, Nepal: Overcrowded trekking routes and summit attempts have caused environmental degradation and increased risk to climbers.
Where to Go Instead: Annapurna Circuit, Nepal – With breathtaking mountain views, diverse ecosystems, and fewer crowds, the Annapurna Circuit offers a fulfilling trekking alternative.

Visit Ragusa instead of Agrigento for Baroque beauty and fewer crowds in Sicily. (Image: Canva)

9. Agrigento, Sicily, Italy: Home to the Valley of the Temples, this historic area struggles with excessive foot traffic and preservation challenges.
Where to Go Instead: Ragusa, Sicily – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ragusa is famous for its Baroque architecture, scenic vistas, and rich culinary tradition.

Experience the untouched beauty of St. Kitts and Nevis over the bustling British Virgin Islands. (Image: Canva)

10. British Virgin Islands: The influx of luxury yachts and high-end tourism has strained natural resources and disrupted local communities.
Where to Go Instead: St. Kitts and Nevis – These twin islands provide pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and a more authentic Caribbean atmosphere.

Opt for Coorg’s misty hills and coffee plantations instead of Kerala’s crowded backwaters. (Image: Canva)

11. Kerala, India: The backwaters and hill stations face overcrowding during peak seasons, threatening the state’s natural and cultural heritage.
Where to Go Instead: Coorg, India – Nestled in the Western Ghats, Coorg offers coffee plantations, misty hills, and tranquil homestays.

Trade Kyoto’s crowded temples for Kanazawa’s tranquil tea houses and samurai districts. (Image: Canva)

12. Kyoto, Japan: Kyoto’s iconic temples and geisha districts are often overrun, taking away from their peaceful ambiance.
Where to Go Instead: Kanazawa, Japan – Known for its traditional tea houses, samurai districts, and Kenroku-en Garden, Kanazawa offers a quieter glimpse into Japan’s history.

Escape Tokyo’s rush and enjoy Sapporo’s snow festivals, fresh seafood, and natural wonders. (Image: Canva)

13. Tokyo, Japan: The sheer volume of visitors can make it difficult to enjoy the city’s attractions and culture fully.
Where to Go Instead: Sapporo, Japan – Renowned for its snow festivals, delicious seafood, and nearby natural wonders, Sapporo offers a refreshing alternative.

Avoid Oaxaca’s festival crowds and explore San Cristóbal de las Casas' rich indigenous culture. (Image: Canva)

14. Oaxaca, Mexico: Overcrowding during festivals like Dia de los Muertos puts pressure on local resources and cultural preservation.
Where to Go Instead: San Cristóbal de las Casas, Mexico – This charming town in Chiapas combines colonial charm, indigenous culture, and vibrant artisan markets.

Skip Scotland's busy North Coast 500 and immerse yourself in the Isle of Skye’s wild beauty. (Image: Canva)

15. North Coast 500, Scotland: This scenic route is experiencing heavy car traffic, leading to environmental concerns.Where to Go Instead: Isle of Skye, Scotland – With its dramatic landscapes, fairy pools, and historic castles, Skye is a haven for those seeking adventure and sustainability.

As global travel rebounds, it's essential to balance our wanderlust with mindful choices that respect the destinations we visit. Opting for lesser-known or sustainable alternatives not only reduces pressure on popular locations but also provides a richer, more authentic travel experience.