Italy is experiencing a tourism boom, with visitor numbers reaching record highs and travel revenues swelling the economy.

The upside

Tourism supports millions of jobs and underpins the economies of historic cities, coastal towns and rural regions alike.

The strain

But popular destinations such as Venice, Florence and the Amalfi Coast are grappling with overcrowding, rising rents and the hollowing-out of residential neighbourhoods. Several cities have introduced visitor fees and accommodation caps.

Finding the balance between welcoming the world and protecting local life has become one of Italy’s defining challenges.