Case sfitte e boom di sfratti, Palermo nella trappola dell'overtourism

The article, published by Il Fatto Quotidiano and authored by journalist Diletta Bellotti, examines how overtourism is reshaping Palermo’s housing market and urban life. It highlights a surge in evictions, a dramatic rise in vacant properties, and the transformation of local businesses to cater to tourist demand, providing a clear picture of the city’s current challenges.

In 2024, over 4,500 evictions were recorded for non‑fault arrears, while the municipality holds more than 67,000 empty homes. Across the wider metropolitan area, the figure climbs to 237,000 vacant units, making Palermo one of Italy’s most property‑laden cities with limited transparency in asset management. Short‑term rental platforms dominate the market, with three major operators each listing over 200 apartments, contributing to rising rents and reduced affordable housing for residents.

Traditional neighbourhood shops, such as hardware stores and local food stalls, are increasingly replaced by boutiques, upscale restaurants and “urban wineries” aimed at tourists. Street‑food staples like arancine have been remodelled, often priced an extra €2, to suit foreign palates. Influencer‑driven food tours accelerate this process, turning once‑authentic eateries into tourist‑centric venues.

Arrivals to Palermo grew by 18.6% in 2024 compared with 2019. Italian visitor numbers rose modestly by 4%, whereas foreign tourists increased by 32.7%. The higher proportion of short‑term stays, often facilitated by platforms such as Airbnb and Booking.com, fuels demand for temporary accommodation and pressures the long‑term rental market.

Higher rents and the loss of public spaces have altered daily life, pushing residents out of historic neighbourhoods. Employment in hospitality often involves precarious contracts, with wages as low as €3‑5 per hour. The city’s street atmosphere now features pervasive “food‑tourist” signage, English‑only menus, and an influx of service staff catering to short‑term visitors.

Palermo holds the highest concentration of seized and confiscated real estate in Italy, yet management lacks transparency. These assets remain largely unused, exacerbating the housing shortage and allowing speculative practices that keep properties out of the legitimate market.

Local activist networks, such as Rete SET and a.p.r.o., organise assemblies to resist overtourism’s impact, advocating for policies that protect affordable housing and preserve cultural heritage. They highlight the need for balanced tourism that does not compromise residents’ quality of life.

The case illustrates how unchecked tourism can undermine sustainable urban development, leading to housing scarcity, social displacement and environmental strain. Policymakers aiming for sustainable housing must consider regulating short‑term rentals, improving transparency of confiscated assets, and supporting community‑led initiatives that safeguard affordable accommodation.