Montmartre, a historic district in Paris, is facing growing pressure from overtourism. Once described as a quiet, village-like area, the neighborhood has been reshaped by the rise of cafés, souvenir shops, and tuk-tuks. Local stores such as bakeries and butchers have disappeared. The Basilica of Sacré-Cœur (pronounced SAH-kray KUR), standing at the top of the hill, received about 11 million visitors in 2024, more than the Eiffel Tower. In the same year, Paris recorded 48.7 million tourists, a 2 percent increase from 2023. Residents responded by placing banners against what they call the “Disneyfication” of the district. Authorities have tried to regulate short-term rentals, but the flow of visitors continues to intensify.

Experts warn that uncontrolled growth threatens historic neighborhoods. Urban planners state that popular areas may become “zombie cities,” attractive but without permanent communities. Residents with mobility problems argue that pedestrian-only streets make daily life difficult, forcing dependence on taxis. Groups such as Vivre à Montmartre report that essential services are disappearing, leaving deliveries as the only option. Similar problems are appearing elsewhere in Europe. Venice has introduced a fee for day-trippers, Athens has limited visits to the Acropolis, and Barcelona residents have protested against cruise ships. Analysts believe population growth, cheap flights, and online platforms will increase congestion. The United Nations projects nearly 10 billion people worldwide by 2050, raising questions about how cities can preserve balance between tourism and local life.