Destination Regeneration: Transforming Overtourism Hotspots into Smart Eco-Regions

A transformative approach to combating overtourism, the excessive and often detrimental influx of tourists, is proposed through the concept of 'Smart Eco-Regions.' This model integrates advanced digital infrastructure, sustainable tourism practices, community engagement, and adaptive governance to regenerate overburdened destinations like Venice, Barcelona, Machu Picchu, and Santorini. The study highlights that proactive destination regeneration—rather than reactive crisis management—can preserve cultural heritage, enhance environmental resilience, and foster long-term socio-economic benefits. By balancing visitor experiences with ecological and social sustainability, this framework offers a blueprint for transforming overtourism hotspots into thriving, sustainable eco-regions.

Sirivadhanawaravachara, A. (2026). Destination Regeneration: Transforming Overtourism Hotspots into Smart Eco-Regions. Zenodo. https://doi.org/10.5281/ZENODO.18846003