Residents of Paris’ Montmartre district are protesting overtourism, saying their neighborhood has been transformed into a theme park dominated by visitors.
Residents of Montmartre, one of Paris’ most visited neighborhoods, are protesting what they call the “Disneyfication” of their once-village-like community.
Local shops and grocers have been replaced by souvenir stands, cafés, and tuk-tuks as the Sacré-Cœur Basilica draws an estimated 11 million visitors annually, surpassing even the Eiffel Tower. “Now, there are no more shops at all, there are no more food shops, so everything must be delivered,” said Olivier Baroin, who recently decided to sell his apartment.
Banners strung between balconies read, “Behind the postcard: locals mistreated by the Mayor.” Residents say daily life has become untenable, with streets crowded by tour groups and short-term rentals.
The unrest mirrors wider frustrations across Europe. Venice has introduced day-tripper fees, Barcelona has seen protests, and Athens is capping visitors at the Acropolis. Paris welcomed nearly 49 million tourists in 2024, a record number.
“The question now,” residents warn, “is whether any space is left for those who call it home.”