10 Travel Destinations Ruined by Influencer Culture

Remember when travel was about discovering new places, soaking in the local culture, and maybe even finding a bit of solitude? Well, thanks to influencer culture, those days seem like a distant memory.

Now, it feels like every corner of the globe has been turned into a backdrop for the next viral Instagram post. But fear not! If you’re tired of following in the footsteps of a million influencers, this guide is for you. We’ll dive into some of the most beautiful travel destinations that have been, well, ruined by influencer culture—and explore where you might want to go instead if you’re looking for a more authentic experience.

For a deeper look at the impact influencers have had on travel, check out our article on How Influencers Changed Travel (And Where You Should Go Instead) – coming soon…

The Instagram Effect: When Travel Became a Photo Op

Let’s be real for a second. Who doesn’t want to capture a stunning sunset or a picturesque landscape while traveling or even a popular tourist attraction? But when did travel become more about the photo than the experience?

Influencers have transformed once-peaceful destinations into tourist traps, where the goal is less about immersing yourself in a new culture and more about getting the “perfect shot”. The result? Overcrowded destinations, environmental degradation, and locals who are just plain sick to death of it.

1. Santorini, Greece: The Blue Domes of Despair

Ah, Santorini. The whitewashed buildings, the cobalt blue domes, the sparkling Aegean Sea—it’s no wonder this place became a darling of Instagram. But here’s the thing: everyone and their grandma wants a photo in front of those iconic domes.

What was once a somewhat chilled out escape has turned into an absolute circus, with influencers jockeying for position to get that money shot. The crowds have gotten so bad during peak season, that you can barely move, let alone enjoy the view. And don’t even think about trying to find a quiet spot to watch the sunset. It’s wall-to-wall people, all with their phones held high.

2. Tulum, Mexico: From Boho Chic to Overpriced Nightmare

Tulum used to be the epitome of laid-back, boho-chic travel. Think yoga on the beach, rustic eco-friendly lodges, and a vibe that was all about peace and tranquility. But then the influencers descended…. Now, Tulum is more like a playground for the Instagram elite, with prices to match.

The once-pristine beaches are packed with people, and the once-charming town has been overrun with luxury resorts and overpriced boutiques and tourist markets. The worst part? The rapid development has put a strain on local resources and has led to serious environmental concerns. If you’re dreaming of a quiet, off-the-grid getaway, Tulum might not be the place anymore.

3. Bali, Indonesia: The Island of Too Many Influencers

Bali is another destination that’s been loved to death by influencers. What was once a peaceful island paradise has turned into a hotspot for selfie-takers and digital nomads. The traffic alone is enough to make you reconsider your trip—navigating the narrow roads has become a nightmare thanks to the influx of tourists.

And don’t even get me started on the beaches. Once long, quiet stretches of sand are now littered with people posing for the ’Gram, so finding a quiet spot to relax is next to impossible. The rise of influencer culture has also led to a boom in “Instagrammable” cafes and attractions, which often prioritize aesthetics over authenticity. Should the question not be, where can you experience culture in Bali?

4. Machu Picchu, Peru: The Ancient Wonder Overrun with Selfie Sticks

Machu Picchu is a bucket-list destination for many, and it’s easy to see why. The ancient Incan city is a marvel of engineering and history, perched high in the Andes and shrouded in mist. But thanks to its popularity on social media, Machu Picchu is now overrun with tourists, all vying for the perfect photo.

The sheer number of visitors has led to concerns about the site’s preservation, and the Peruvian government has had to implement strict regulations to protect it. If you do decide to visit, be prepared for crowds and a less-than-zen experience. And remember: you’re there to appreciate a piece of history, not just to get a selfie.

5. Venice, Italy: The City That’s Sinking Under the Weight of Tourism

Venice has long been a favourite of travellers, with its winding canals, historic architecture, and romantic atmosphere. But the rise of influencer culture has pushed this fragile city to its limits. Cruise ships spit out thousands of tourists every day, and the narrow streets are packed with people following the same influencer-approved itinerary.

The result? A city that’s not just sinking physically, but also literally, under the weight of its own popularity. Local Venetians have been driven out by skyrocketing prices, and the city’s unique culture is at risk of being lost forever. If you’re dreaming of a quiet gondola ride through the canals, Venice might not be the relaxing experience you’re hoping for.

6. Reykjavik, Iceland: The Land of Fire, Ice, and Instagram Filters

Iceland is a land of stunning natural beauty, with glaciers, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes that look like they’re from another planet. But the country’s popularity has exploded in recent years, thanks in large part to social media. Reykjavik, the capital, has become a hub for tourists looking to explore the island’s unique landscapes, but the influx of visitors has put a strain on the city’s infrastructure.

The famous Golden Circle route, which includes popular spots like Gullfoss and Thingvellir, is now packed with tour buses and selfie-takers. And the Northern Lights? Good luck finding a quiet spot to watch them without someone’s flash going off. If you’re looking for peace in nature, you might want to look elsewhere in Iceland.

7. Cinque Terre, Italy: The Colourful Villages You Can’t See Anymore

Cinque Terre, with its colourful cliffside villages and pretty coastal views, is one of Italy’s most picturesque destinations. But it’s also one of the most overcrowded. Thanks to social media, these once-sleepy fishing villages are now inundated with tourists, all eager to snap a photo of the pastel-coloured houses.

The narrow streets are packed with people, and the hiking trails that connect the villages are often clogged with foot traffic. The influx of tourists has also put a strain on the local environment, with concerns about erosion and waste management. If you’re hoping for a peaceful escape to the Italian coast, Cinque Terre might not be the idyllic retreat you’ve imagined.

8. Banff National Park, Canada: The Instagrammers Have Taken Over the Rockies

Banff National Park is a place of breathtaking nature, with turquoise lakes, towering mountains, and plenty of wildlife. It’s no wonder that it’s become a favourite of influencers looking to capture the perfect outdoor shot. But the park’s popularity has come at a cost.

The once-tranquil hiking trails are now crowded with people, and the parking lots at popular spots like Lake Louise fill up well before sunrise. The sheer number of visitors has led to concerns about the impact on the park’s ecosystems, and local authorities have had to implement measures to manage the crowds. If you’re looking for a quiet retreat in the Rockies, Banff might not be the sanctuary it once was.

9. Paris, France: The City of Light (and Way Too Many Tourists)

Paris is a city that needs no introduction (especially after the recent disaster called “the Olympics”…). The Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the charming cafes—it’s a city that’s on almost everyone’s bucket list. But thanks to influencer culture, some of Paris’s most iconic spots have become overrun with tourists.

The lines to get into the Louvre are longer than ever, and the streets around the Eiffel Tower are packed with people trying to get the perfect shot. The rise of Airbnb has also led to concerns about the impact of short-term rentals on local neighborhoods, with many Parisians being priced out of their own city. If you’re looking for a romantic escape in Paris, you might want to reconsider your itinerary.

10. Kyoto, Japan: The Temples of Tranquility Are No More

Kyoto is a city that’s steeped in history, with ancient temples, traditional tea houses, and stunning gardens. But the city’s popularity has exploded in recent years, thanks in large part to social media. The famous bamboo forest in Arashiyama, once a place of serene beauty, is now packed with tourists, all trying to get the perfect shot.

The same goes for the city’s temples, which are often so crowded that it’s hard to find a moment of peace. The influx of visitors has also led to concerns about the impact on the city’s cultural heritage, with some locals lamenting the loss of traditional Kyoto. If you’re hoping to experience the quiet beauty of Kyoto, you might be disappointed by the reality.

Final thoughts… Seek Out the Road Less Traveled

Traveling is all about discovering new places, meeting new people, and having new experiences. But when those experiences are shaped more by what’s trending on Instagram than by your own interests and desires, it can take away from the joy of discovery.

If you’re looking to avoid the crowds and find your own path, consider skipping the influencer hotspots and seeking out less-traveled destinations. There’s a whole world out there beyond the Instagram feed, just waiting to be explored.

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