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Daily Mirror
7 days ago
- Business
- Daily Mirror
Europe's 'most overcrowded' tourist attraction is slammed as a 'circus'
The Palace of Versailles is one of Europe's most popular tourist attractions - but it seems to be a victim of its own success, with visitors claiming they felt like 'sheep' Over tourism is rapidly becoming an issue in top European countries like France and Spain. A recent study by the experts at Holidu scoured Tripadvisor comments, scouting for frequent references to "overcrowded" or "too crowded". The majestic Versailles Palace, renowned and flocked by tourists in France, emerged as the prime example, with over five per cent of reviews mentioning one of the words. This former seat of royalty, nestled just outside Paris, is maybe best-known as Marie Antoinette's home. Boasting the illustrious Hall of Mirrors and lush gardens, this historical gem draws close to 15 million visitors each year, sparking a debate on whether it's reached its visitor saturation point. One exasperated Tripadvisor user, 'Wanderer35996', lamented: "The building was stifling. With the overcrowding (literally could not move, much less see anything), it was miserable." Another, 'ATLpch', recalled the experience, sharing: "We were all herded like cattle through the same palace rooms and single passage doorways for about an hour." Yet another compared their visit to an unwieldy procession, commenting: "Once inside, there was a conga line of people who moved through the palace like sheep. It was a circus!" A different tourist remarked on the irony of the situation, observing: "The amount of people kills all the pleasure. Even though the place is beautiful, it's hard to enjoy and admire it." However, amidst the critiques, the Palace did enchant some of its guests, , reports the Express. A charmed visitor confessed they "fell in love with the Palace". And yet another delighted guest heaped praise, describing it as a "must visit" while saying: "it was amazing to see the Palace in all its glory. It was outstanding". Europe's most congested tourist spots:
Forbes
24-05-2025
- Forbes
These Are The Cities Where You Have To Pay The Highest Tourist Taxes
Palm Tree-Lined Street Overlooking Los Angeles at Sunset As tourism continues to rebound post-pandemic, more destinations worldwide are implementing, or increasing, tourist taxes to drive revenue for their local economies and reduce the negative impacts of over-tourism. But, when breaking down the costs of their holidays, many travelers might not realise how much these seemingly small tourist taxes can add up to throughout a trip. In some cases, they may even add hundreds of dollars to your vacation costs. Whether you're planning a weekend city break in Europe or a getaway to a US hotspot, it has never been more important to know exactly how much tourist tax you'll need to pay. To help travelers navigate these somewhat hidden costs, vacation rental company Holidu has created a comprehensive guide that highlights the tourist taxes in different cities worldwide. The site also has a handy calculator at the bottom that helps you work out exactly how much tourist tax you'll have to pay in your chosen city destination. Coming in as the most expensive city for tourist taxes is Los Angeles. This California dream destination sees visitors flock year-round to experience its sandy beaches and vibrant nightlife, but what many may not know is that the city imposes a substantial 15.5% tax on total accommodation bookings. For an average-priced vacation rental at $275 per night in the city, this translates to an additional $43 in tourist tax each day, which could add as much as $300 to a week-long holiday. If you plan to visit the City of Angels, you'll want to budget in the cost of this tax. The U.S.'s 'Big Apple' takes second place in the rankings of the most expensive tourist tax cities, with its combination of a $3.50 per person nightly fee alongside a 14.75% tax on total bookings. As one of the most popular tourist destinations in the U.S., this is a great way for New York to generate revenue from the 60 million tourists that visit the city each year to support its infrastructure and services, keeping its wheels turning year-round for globe-trotting visitors. Another U.S. destination to make the top five ranking, the country's capital of Washington D.C comes in third place, as it imposes a 14.95% tax on accommodations, resulting in an average nightly tax of $41 on a typical rental priced at $275 per night. Many travellers are happy to pay the cost though, given the city's iconic landmarks and plethora of cultural attractions like the White House and the Washington Monument, to name but a few. And it's this larger tourist tax fee that helps maintain these Washington world-class attractions and sights, many of which offer free admission to visitors. Some might say, therefore, that the added tourist tax is a worthwhile investment for the city's accessible attractions. The entertainment capital of the world takes fourth place in the rankings with its 13.38% accommodation tax, which adds approximately $28 to the nightly cost of an average $200 a night holiday rental. Known for its world-class casinos, exceptional shows, and extensive entertainment, Las Vegas puts its tourist taxes to good use to fund its education, tourism promotion, and infrastructure, amongst other initiatives, helping it to further attract visitors and enhance its reputation as one of the world's most thrilling destinations for a getaway. Rounding out the top five ranking is Montreal, Canada's UNESCO City of Design, known for its exceptional innovation. The city imposes a 3.5% tax on accommodations priced over $30 per night. While, compared to U.S. cities, this percentage may seem modest, it results in a notable $28.50 nightly tax on an average $95 per night accommodation, which is what proportionally makes it one of the highest tax rates in the ranking. Tourists should know that the tourist taxes in this city go towards the Tourism Partner Fund, helping to support and promote the wider province of Quebec's tourism industry, making them a worthwhile investment. While several cities around the world have long enforced a tourist tax, there are some which are only just considering rolling one out for visitors as a way to support their local economy and reduce overtourism: The capital of Scotland sees its fair share of tourists visiting for its historical significance and architectural beauty, and soon, travellers heading to Edinburgh will be expected to pay a tourist tax from 2026 onwards. This will be a 5% levy on various overnight accommodations in the city, which will be capped at five nights in a row, according to Edinburgh Council. With the levy in place, this is expected to increase to £50 million ($67 million) a year, which the city will invest in supporting, enhancing, and protecting Edinburgh's worldwide appeal as a place to visit and live. Thailand is also considering introducing a tourist tax before the end of 2025. Set to be as much as 300 baht, or $9.23, this one-off fee will be enforced for those entering the country by air, land, or sea. The tax will fund the country's tourism-related infrastructure, as well as insurance for tourists, but the full details are still being finalised. The costs are planned to be integrated into Thailand's Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) too, which launched at the beginning of May 2025.
Daily Mirror
20-05-2025
- Daily Mirror
Europe's sunniest city is underrated gem - and Brits can visit with £16 flights
Europe's sunniest city not only boasts hot weather but it's also got cathedrals, a gorgeous harbour and amazing food - and you can find cheap direct flights with easyJet and Ryanair Summer is fast approaching, but Brits chasing some hot and sunny weather may want to start planning a trip to the breathtaking city of Cartagena, Spain. That's because the historic port city has been named Europe's sunniest city by the travel experts over at Holidu, who have estimated that it boasts an average of 283 sunshine hours every month. Cartagena may not be a hidden gem - cruise fans will no doubt know it as one of the ports where plenty of ships dock as part of their itineraries. However, it remains underrated as most people will then flock to nearby Alicante or Murcia for their adventures, so the sun-soaked spot doesn't always have to deal with the big crowds during peak months. The good news for Brits is that you won't need to break the bank to visit either. The nearest airport is Murcia, approximately an hour's drive away, with flights from £16.62 each way available from the likes of Ryanair and easyJet. Meanwhile Holidu has uncovered a number of holiday rentals in Cartagena starting from £30 a night, although typically the cheapest rates fall outside of the school holidays. Those who do a bit of exploring around the city won't be disappointed, thanks to a plethora of gorgeous architecture, fascinating museums and of course, plenty of spots to sample some of that mouthwatering Spanish fare. The Roman amphitheatre remains one of the biggest highlights for any history fan, especially with the adjacent museum that delves into Roman history, and the ongoing project and renovations to sustain the landmark. Meanwhile the 'Casa de la Fortuna' aka the House of Fortunes offers another interesting glimpse into Roman life, specifically what it might have been like day-to-day for residents. Then of course it's well worth just having a relaxed wander through the city to take in the shops and all-important tapas bars, not to mention there are plenty of scenic walks so you can enjoy views of the ships and yachts that dock into the harbour throughout the day. For those who want a bit of downtime on the beach, there are a few spots along the coast where you can relax on sandy and pebbled shores, but if the beaches are the main focus of your holidays, then you may want to head to the likes of Barcelona or Alicante instead, where you'll find those picture-perfect golden sands, as well as a plethora of beachfront hotels and holiday homes. Of course while it's no secret that Spain is blessed with plenty of hot and sunny months, it's definitely the European hotspot for sunseekers; the research found that the country is home to nine of the top 10 sunniest destinations on the continent! You can check out the full list below for a dose of inspiration. Europe's top 10 sunniest cities Cartagena, Spain Alicante, Spain Malaga, Spain Murcia, Spain Granada, Spain Catania, Spain Seville, Spain Cordoba, Spain Marseille, France, Madrid, Spain
Telegraph
11-05-2025
- Telegraph
Why Europe's sunniest city should be your next holiday destination
The coastal city of Cartagena, in southeastern Spain's Murcia region, has been found to receive more sunshine than anywhere else in Europe. Why it should get a few hours more than, say, Alicante, just up the coast, or Malaga on the Costa del Sol, I'm not entirely sure. Then again, it is on the Costa Cálida, the 'Warm Coast', as this stretch of Murcia is called, so maybe there is something in it. After crunching World Weather Online data, covering the period 2009 to 2025 and looking at European cities with populations above 200,000, Holidu, an accommodation platform, found that Cartagena gets an average of 283 hours of sunshine a month. Thirteen of the top 30 cities in the survey are in Spain, with not much between them, but while the likes of Seville, Granada and Madrid are top city-break choices, Cartagena flies largely under the radar. Most of its British visitors are either arriving on the cruise ships that dock in its large port or popping down from the resorts of the nearby Mar Menor to do a spot of shopping. But it is deserving of more attention. There is a lot of history to get your head around here, as Cartagena was founded in 227 BC and is one of the oldest cities in Spain. It was from here that Hannibal set off with his elephants in 218 BC to cross the Alps and invade Italy. Although much of the city was destroyed in the Spanish Civil War and earlier conflicts, you are constantly coming across vestiges of its rich past as you walk around. If you whizz up in the swish lift to the observation point by the castle, you'll understand why this strategic location was so attractive to numerous rulers over the centuries. From the vantage point of the hilltop, you see that the city curves around a natural harbour that is sheltered in a crinkly inlet, a bit like Plymouth. The port sprawls around the waterfront, while immediately below you a Roman theatre is tucked into the hillside. To learn more about it and get a closer look, stroll down to the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, the sparkling square that showcases the splendid town hall. Opposite is the Museo del Teatro Romano, designed by Rafael Moneo, where you can soak up as much or as little background as you like before emerging in the theatre itself. It's astounding that no one even knew it was there until 1988, as the structure lay buried under layers of ruined buildings – including a cathedral. It was only discovered because this prime yet derelict bit of land was being cleared with a view to building a centre to promote the Murcia region's traditional crafts. A plan that was dropped, obviously. Since then, remains of Roman Cartagena have been gradually coming to light, including the forum, where there is also now a museum, the Museo del Foro Romano Molinete. It's one of those places, like Malaga, where every time a digger breaks up a pavement some sort of relic is revealed. All that history and heritage can be a bit exhausting – particularly in that relentless sunshine. In the summer months, the temperature in Cartagena is actually more conducive to sitting around doing as little as possible. Just as well then that the city has no shortage of café terraces with shaded tables. I always like to get in the swing by ordering an asiático, a punchy local concoction with layers of coffee, brandy, Licor 43 (a liqueur made in Cartagena) and condensed milk and served in a covetable chunky tumbler – resist the temptation to slip it into your bag though as the glasses have become one of Cartagena's most popular souvenirs and are easily available to buy. An asiático is guaranteed to pick you up, although your cultural agenda may slip a bit afterwards. From the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, follow the throng of people walking up the Calle Mayor, which is not only lined with shops and bars but also features several ornate modernista buildings – the form of art nouveau architecture that will be familiar to you from Barcelona and Valencia. The style flourished in Cartagena at the turn of the 20th century when wealth generated from the mining industry was used to build lavish residences. You could start a second day down at the port, where there are two museums that are essential to understanding Cartagena's maritime importance. The Museo Naval, where there is a section on Isaac Peral, who designed the first electric submarine in the late 19th century. I remember seeing the submarine on the waterfront, where it was displayed for many years, exposed to the elements, and was in a bit of a sorry state. Fortunately it was transferred indoors to the museum in 2012 and has been restored to its former glory. A stroll along the waterfront brings you to the ARQVA, the Museo Nacional de Arqueología Subacuática, where you delve into an underwater world of fascinating finds from Phoenician times up to the present day. Back outside, the aroma of the freshest of fish being fried is likely to lure you into one of the quayside restaurants. Varadero, in the fishing harbour, is a great spot to try arroz de caldero, the Murcian rice dish which is made in a hefty iron pot rather than a paella pan, a tradition devised by local fishermen. Woozily sipping another asiático after your lunch, under the almost eternally blue sky, you'll probably be thinking that Cartagena is pretty much perfect for a city break. How to do it The nearest airport is Murcia International, to which Ryanair and EasyJet fly from London and several regional airports. The Sercotel Alfonso XIII is a good central base; doubles from £82, room only. For something fancier, the Grand Hyatt La Manga Club Golf & Spa is a 30-minute drive from Cartagena; doubles from £330, including breakfast.
Daily Mirror
29-04-2025
- Daily Mirror
Europe's sunniest city named and it's just three hours from UK with £2.50 beer
With an average of 283 hours of monthly sunshine and summer temperatures regularly exceeding 30C, the rain really does stay mainly on the plane A Spanish city has been crowned the 'sunniest city in Europe ', making it an irresistible destination for sun-seekers. Research by holiday rental booking portal Holidu uncovered the continent's most sun-drenched cities, with eight of the top ten located in Spain. Nestled in the southeast region of Murcia, Cartagena enjoys an enviable Mediterranean climate, vibrant culture and a surprisingly affordable cost of living. The historic port city, founded by the Carthaginians in roughly 220BC, boasts an average of 283 hours of sunshine per month — more than any other European city. This abundance of sun translates into warm, inviting weather for most of the year, with annual averages hovering around a temperate 19C. From June to September, daytime highs typically range between 28C and 31C, with July and August often seeing the mercury soaring even higher. Rainfall is scarce, especially in the summer, ensuring long, dry days perfect for exploring the city or relaxing by the sea. One of Cartagena's most attractive features is its affordability. The average price for a pint of local draught beer is just £2.50, a fraction of what you'd pay in London or other major UK cities. Dining out is also budget-friendly, with inexpensive restaurant meals averaging around £10. This low cost of living extends to public transport and accommodation, making Cartagena an excellent choice for holidaymakers looking to make their money go further. Getting to the city is cheaper and easier than ever, with a host of budget airlines flying to nearby airports, including Murcia, which is less than half an hour away from Cartagena. The quickest routes from London take around two and a half hours, and flights from the UK can be found for as little as £34 with Ryanair. Beyond its sunshine and value, Cartagena is rich in history, art and culture. Founded over two millennia ago, its streets are lined with remnants of Roman, Carthaginian and Moorish civilizations. The city is home to the first-century BC Roman Amphitheater, one of Spain's most impressive ancient monuments, and the charming old town is filled with lively squares, tapas bars and boutiques. Concepción Castle offers panoramic views of the city and harbour, while the ancient city walls and abundant archaeological sites tell the story of Cartagena's strategic maritime importance. The city's coastal location means beautiful beaches are always close at hand. The nearby shores of La Manga and Calblanque are renowned for their pristine sands and clear waters, ideal for swimming, sunbathing and water sports during the long, hot summers. Despite its many attractions, Cartagena remains less crowded than Spain's more famous tourist hotspots, giving visitors a chance to experience authentic Spanish hospitality and vibrant local life without the overwhelming crowds. Seasonal festivals, such as the Mar de Músicas, bring international artists and a lively atmosphere to the city each summer. With its rich history, stunning coastline and unbeatable value, Cartagena is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by anyone in search of sunshine, history and adventure.
