One of the most over-crowded locations by tourists in the world can be found right here in Europe.
The likes of Spain, Greece, Italy and Croatia all experienced throngs of tourists and overcrowding during peak holiday season over the summer months.
As the global tourism industry attempts to bounce back after the pandemic, many destinations around the world face a flock of tourists arriving constantly throughout the year, meaning they won’t be as peaceful as they once were.
Research from MoneyTransfers.com revealed that one of the most ‘over-touristed’ cities in the world can be found in Europe.
Muğla, a province and city in southwestern Turkey on the Aegean Sea, was named the fourth most ‘over-touristed’ destination in the world.
Muğla boasts a whopping 40.2 tourists per one resident. Jonathan Merry, resident travel expert at MoneyTransfers.com, said: “The recent devastating fires in Maui highlighted the feelings many natives to popular destinations have: a desire for tourists to stay away, especially when the land itself is at risk.
“The index below highlights just how overcrowded many cities around the world are by international visitors. Although not necessarily an unwelcome thing in many ways, it’s undeniable that this level of popularity and tourists wildly outnumbering locals can result in overcrowding and a cascade of negative effects.”
MoneyTransfers.com noted that Muğla’s scenic beauty and historical site, and its proximity to popular resort locations of Bodrum and Marmaris, have made it a highly attractive location for tourists, especially those looking for a blend of ancient history and Mediterranean influence.
Bodrum is one of Turkiye’s most popular holiday destinations, and its popularity and demand is mainly due to its consistently sunny, warm weather. According to the Met Office, Bodrum boasts high temperatures from May until October.
But don’t worry, you’ll still find an average daily temperature of 21℃ in November, if you’re chasing some winter sun.
The Muğla province isn’t just home to tourist and resort hot spots, but an immense amount of natural beauty just waiting to be explored. Top picks include Saklikent Milli Parki, İztuzu Plajı, and Oludeniz beach.
If you’re a fan of ambling in the sun, wander the Lycian Way hiking trail along the coastline in southern Turkey, from Fethiye to Antalya. Spanning 760 kilometres, the hiking trail takes a massive 35 days to complete.
Kate Clow, creator of The Lycian Way trail, told CNN Travel: “Turkiye at that time, this is 35 years ago, didn’t have any walking routes at all. And I had been walking in the Pyrenees and in various other places in France and Spain. And I thought ‘Turkey deserves one too’.”
In and around Muğla city itself you’ll find cultural and natural wonders, including Topalar Waterfall, the ancient ruins of Stratonikeia Antik Kenti, and the Amynthas Rock Tomb.