Venice has become the symbol of a contradiction spreading across Europe: cities increasingly sought after by tourists, but where it is becoming harder to live. The historic center of the Italian city has lost about 70% of its inhabitants over seven decades, and tourist accommodation supply already exceeds the resident population.
This phenomenon is not limited to Venice. Mass tourism is transforming several European cities, creating tensions between tourist activity and the daily lives of residents. Many inhabitants are forced to leave historic centers due to real estate pressure and the conversion of homes into tourist spaces.
Lisbon is not at the same point as Venice, but faces some similar problems. Housing in the Portuguese capital has become more expensive, short-term rentals have been expanding, and historic neighborhoods are experiencing growing pressure from tourism.
The article warns of the need to find a balance between the tourist valorization of cities and the preservation of living conditions for their residents, a challenge that several European cities currently face.
