Travel in Europe in 2025 is becoming increasingly complex for tourists to navigate due to various rules and restrictions. Some cities have implemented daily tourist taxes that visitors must pay upon arrival, while other destinations have outright bans on tourists in certain areas or have limited the number of visitors to popular attractions. Spain, for example, has been grappling with overtourism, but policies are aimed at managing tourism rather than completely stopping it. The country has introduced new regulations for holiday rentals, including an Airbnb-style rental ban in certain areas and additional information requirements for tourists staying in accommodations or renting cars.
In addition to Spain, other European cities are implementing restrictions on tourist numbers, particularly for cruise passengers. Some cities are limiting the number of cruise ships that can visit, while others are capping visitor numbers at popular attractions to combat overtourism. For example, the Acropolis in Athens has a daily visitor limit, and Pompeii has introduced a cap on the number of visitors allowed per day. Other destinations, such as Seville and Sardinia, have closed off certain areas or beaches to protect the environment and wildlife. In cities like Prague and Rome, there are restrictions on certain tourist behaviors, with fines being issued for violations.
Tourist taxes have also become increasingly common in popular holiday destinations. Countries like Greece, Portugal, Spain, and Italy have various tourist taxes that visitors must pay based on the location and type of accommodation. Cruise passengers are also subject to additional taxes in certain areas. New travel authorization rules have been introduced for Brits and European visitors going to the UK, with the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) now required for EU citizens visiting the UK. For British residents traveling to the Schengen area in Europe, a new rule involving the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is expected to launch in mid-2025.
Despite the challenges and restrictions, planning a holiday in Europe in 2025 can still be an enjoyable experience as long as tourists are aware of the rules and regulations in place. By understanding the various tourist taxes, restrictions on tourist behaviors, and new travel authorization rules, visitors can navigate the complexities of travel in Europe more effectively. It is important for tourists to check the specific regulations for their destination and accommodation to avoid any issues during their trip. Overall, while travel in Europe may be more complicated in 2025, with proper research and preparation, tourists can still have a memorable holiday experience on the continent.
