A recent study conducted by MoneyTransfers.com has identified Phuket, a picturesque Thai island, as the world’s most congested tourist destination in 2023. As the travel industry returns to its pre-pandemic levels, popular destinations are grappling with the challenges of overtourism. Topping the list of these crowded locales are Thailand’s Phuket, followed closely by Pattaya and Krabi. Phuket has long been a sought-after retreat, particularly renowned for its idyllic beaches and hosting some of the globe’s most renowned parties.
In certain places, the situation has escalated to the point where governments have felt compelled to implement measures aimed at regulating the influx of tourists. Bali, for instance, has imposed a series of restrictions on tourist activities to manage overtourism. Meanwhile, in Europe, cities such as Venice, Athens, and Amsterdam have adopted various measures to preserve their landscapes from the perils of overcrowding. Venice has introduced tourist taxes, and the Acropolis in Athens, Greece, has instituted a daily visitor limit. Additionally, residents in Austria have raised their voices in protest against the overwhelming number of visitors.
Turning our attention to the United Kingdom, Edinburgh Castle, a magnificent historic site, has become the most densely packed tourist attraction, while Bath claims the title of the most overcrowded city.
Returning to the issue of Phuket, it comes as no surprise that this Thai island is experiencing a surge in tourism. With over 90 kilometers of coastline, Phuket boasts breathtaking beaches like Kata and Karon that draw visitors from all corners of the globe. These beaches are not only favored by scuba enthusiasts but also feature vibrant markets and exceptional seafood eateries. According to the study, Phuket plays host to a staggering 118 tourists for every local resident, solidifying its status as the most overcrowded destination globally. Pattaya and Krabi take the second and third spots on this list, respectively.
Here is the rundown of the top 10 most overcrowded tourist destinations in the world:
- Phuket, Thailand
- Pattaya, Thailand
- Krabi, Thailand
- Mugla, Turkey
- Hurghada, Turkey
- Macau, China
- Heraklion, Greece
- Venice, Italy
- Rhodes, Greece
- Miami, USA
