Overtourism in rural areas of Turkey: a tale of two towns

This study aims to analyze the impacts of tourism development on rural areas in Isparta, Turkey, focusing on stakeholders’ perspectives in two towns. It examines the interplay between overtourism, challenges in rural tourism, and sustainable tourism development, situating these within the broader literature on tourism planning and governance. A qualitative case study approach was employed, using 27 semi-structured interviews with local residents, Government officials, private sector representatives, and academics. The findings reveal contrasting development models: a structured, top-down approach versus an uncoordinated, bottom-up model, highlighting issues such as infrastructure deficits, environmental damage, and limited local involvement. The study concludes by emphasizing the importance of long-term planning, stakeholder collaboration, and addressing governance challenges to mitigate overtourism and enhance sustainable rural tourism. These insights contribute to both theoretical understandings and practical strategies for managing rural tourism sustainably.