Kotor, UNESCO World Heritage Site, Struggles with Surging Tourist Numbers

Photo : Reuters

Tourism plays a crucial role in Montenegro’s economy, contributing roughly a quarter of its economic output. However, the picturesque town of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is grappling with the pressures of overtourism. Nestled along the Adriatic coast, Kotor is renowned for its stunning bay and historic charm, but the influx of visitors is taking a significant toll on the town and its 23,000 residents.

The surge in tourism is primarily driven by the arrival of hundreds of boats, yachts, and cruise ships that dock daily in Kotor's bustling harbor. This year alone, around 500 cruise ships are expected to visit, a marked increase from previous years. On one particular day, four cruise ships carrying approximately 5,000 tourists were moored in the harbor, contributing to the overwhelming crowds. Kotor’s popularity was further heightened by its appearance in the 2006 James Bond film "Casino Royale."

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The high volume of tourists has sparked concerns among locals about the strain on infrastructure and the environment. Doris Dajkovic, an employee at a local souvenir shop, highlighted the severe traffic congestion caused by the influx of visitors. "Traffic jams are huge," she noted, reflecting the daily challenges faced by residents.

Local authorities and residents are increasingly vocal about the need to address these issues. Jovan Ristic, director of the local tourist organization, has expressed support for raising the current 1-euro ($1.09) fee imposed on cruise ship visitors. "The life of our neighbours is becoming increasingly difficult during the tourist season," Ristic said. He pointed out that other popular tourist destinations, such as Venice, Barcelona, and Santorini, have also faced similar challenges and have implemented measures to manage tourist numbers more effectively.

In Venice, a 5-euro ($5.44) charge for day-trippers was introduced in April to mitigate congestion and encourage more sustainable tourism practices. Similarly, Dubrovnik in neighboring Croatia has implemented a "Respect The City" plan, capping the number of cruise visitors to 4,000 at any given time to protect its UNESCO-listed status and local environment.

The environmental impact of mass tourism in Kotor is also a growing concern. Milica Mandic, a scientific advisor at Montenegro’s Institute of Marine Biology, emphasized the need for a comprehensive study to assess the environmental impact of the cruise ships. “Such a number of cruisers requires a study to determine the maximum environmental load,” Mandic said.

As Kotor continues to attract tourists from around the world, finding a balance between economic benefits and preserving the town’s quality of life and environment remains a pressing challenge.

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