Every year, Montmartre in Paris welcomes around 11 million tourists, making it one of the busiest destinations in Europe. This figure even surpasses the number of visitors to the Eiffel Tower, the city’s main landmark. Behind its romantic and picturesque image, Montmartre residents now face immense pressure from overtourism. The once-village atmosphere has shifted into an uncontrollable crowd that feels more like an amusement park than a living neighborhood.
Locals Losing Their Neighborhood Identity
Long-time residents say Montmartre is gradually losing its soul. Olivier Baroin, a local, was forced to sell his apartment as daily life became unbearable. Narrow streets once filled with bakeries and butchers are now occupied by souvenir stands, fast food kiosks, and endless crowds of tourists. Everyday mobility is disrupted by excessive pedestrianization and the relentless influx of visitors.
The community group Vivre à Montmartre argues the district has turned into an “open-air Disneyland.” Tourists come only to take photos, buy souvenirs, and leave, without ever experiencing real local life. “People come for a few hours, buy a beret or a crepe, then leave chaos behind,” said Anne Renaudie, one of the movement’s leaders.
Expanding Protests with Banners and Demands
The protests have grown louder, with banners hanging from balconies reading “Behind the postcard: locals mistreated by the Mayor” and “Montmartre residents resisting.” Residents are demanding limits on tour group sizes, bans on noisy loudspeakers, and even higher tourist taxes to help improve quality of life for locals.
This wave of resistance highlights how overtourism is no longer just a complaint but a serious threat to residents’ rights over their own living space. Local and international media are spotlighting Montmartre as a striking example of the global tourism industry’s negative impacts.
Housing Crisis and Economic Pressures
Beyond the crowds, Montmartre is also facing a sharp housing crisis. Property prices have surged by 19 percent in the past decade, with a small 40-square-meter apartment now costing about €500,000. This trend is made worse by the boom in short-term rentals like Airbnb, which makes it harder for locals to find affordable housing.
To address this, Paris authorities tightened regulations. Short-term rentals that were once allowed up to 120 days per year are now capped at 90 days. While intended to reduce housing pressure, many argue the measure is insufficient to truly protect permanent residents.
Everyday Life Becoming Unbearable
For locals, daily life is increasingly difficult. Anthea Quenel, a Montmartre resident, said she often has to shout just to make her way through tourist crowds clogging the narrow streets. Many describe Montmartre as at risk of becoming a “zombie city”: beautiful for tourists but empty of genuine local life.
This stark contrast between Montmartre’s postcard-perfect image and the reality of its residents reveals how unchecked tourism not only reshapes the economy but also erodes social and cultural roots built over generations.
The Long Road to Saving Montmartre
City officials are exploring solutions to balance tourism with livability. Discussions include setting daily visitor limits, regulating local businesses, and raising tourist taxes. Yet so far, no policy has fully relieved the pressure.
Meanwhile, other European cities like Venice and Barcelona have already adopted stricter visitor caps. Paris may need to follow suit if Montmartre is to retain its unique identity.
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