If you’re planning to travel to Europe in 2025, it’s more important than ever to check travel restrictions in European cities before booking. Popular cities across Europe are tightening tourism rules to tackle over tourism, protect local life, and preserve cultural heritage.
From entry fees and visitor caps to rental restrictions and behaviour rules, these changes could impact your trip. Here’s what you need to know before packing your bags.
1. Venice, Italy
Venice continues its effort to manage mass tourism with stricter policies.
• €5 Day-Tripper Fee: Now officially enforced for all non-overnight visitors on peak days.
• Online Booking System: Required to enter the historic centre during major holidays and weekends.
• Crowd Monitoring: Visitor numbers may be capped during high season.
Tip: If you’re staying overnight, make sure your accommodation is officially registered to avoid surprises.
1. Venice, Italy
Venice continues its effort to manage mass tourism with stricter policies.
• €5 Day-Tripper Fee: Now officially enforced for all non-overnight visitors on peak days.
• Online Booking System: Required to enter the historic centre during major holidays and weekends.
• Crowd Monitoring: Visitor numbers may be capped during high season.
Tip: If you’re staying overnight, make sure your accommodation is officially registered to avoid surprises.
2. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is shifting focus from party tourism to cultural travel in 2025.
• Ban on Cruise Ships: Large cruise ships are no longer allowed to dock near the city centre.
• Stricter Airbnb Laws: Maximum 30 nights per year per listing.
• Noisy Tourist Fines: Steep penalties for disruptive behaviour in the Red Light District and residential areas.
Tip: Stay in legal rentals and respect quiet zones—especially at night.
3. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona has increased enforcement in 2025 to protect housing and reduce city centre crowding.
• Tourist Tax: Increased again this year, with variable rates by accommodation type.
• Airbnb Crackdowns: Only properties with official licences are allowed.
• Beach Rules: Smoking and drinking on beaches now banned, with fines issued on the spot.
Tip: Confirm your accommodation is listed with the city before booking on platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com.
4. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik continues its mission to protect its UNESCO-listed Old Town.
• Daily Visitor Caps: Limited cruise arrivals and restricted Old Town entry during midday hours.
• Rolling Suitcase Ban: Still in place—travellers must carry luggage through stone streets.
• Noise Monitoring: Sound levels are tracked in the city centre.
Tip: Travel light or use a backpack for easier access to historic areas.
5. Paris, France
Fresh off the 2024 Olympics, Paris has introduced new rules for 2025.
• Short-Term Rental Regulations: Stricter ID checks and registration required for all listings.
• Tourist Zones Monitored: High-traffic areas like Montmartre and the Marais have visitor flow control on weekends.
• Environmental Zones: Car restrictions are increasing, especially for older vehicles.
Tip: Use public transport and stay updated on any temporary closures or crowd-control measures.
Final thoughts on travel restrictions in European cities in 2025
Travel restrictions aren’t about keeping people out—they’re about keeping cities liveable. By following the rules and staying informed, you’ll help support sustainable tourism and avoid unnecessary stress.
• Check local tourism websites before your trip
• Book responsibly
• Respect locals and their space
The more mindful we are as travellers, the more we preserve the places we love.