VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Malta has been ranked as the ninth most overcrowded tourist destination in the world, according to a study by Go2Africa, as reported by the New York Post. The list highlights global hotspots where overtourism is placing increasing strain on infrastructure and local communities. The study compared each country’s annual tourist numbers with its population.
In 2024, Malta, with a population of 563,443, welcomed over 3.5 million tourists — averaging 6.32 visitors per resident. Only eight countries surpassed Malta, including Vatican City, which saw 6.8 million tourists despite having just 882 residents. Other nations ahead of Malta included Monaco, Bahrain, and the Bahamas.
The New York Post noted the broader implications of such tourism levels, stating that “picturesque destinations are feeling the strain of overtourism,” and raised concerns about sustainability and the long-term impact on communities. The report suggested tourists consider alternative destinations to ease pressure on overcrowded locales. For Malta, Mauritius was recommended as a quieter, more spacious option with similar cultural richness. Other countries that followed Malta in the top 15 included Hong Kong, Iceland, and Croatia.
– photo IPA Agency –
(ITALPRESS).
