The rapid increase in global tourism activity has increased pressure on natural resources; this situation has made sustainable tourism approaches aimed at minimizing environmental impacts a necessity. Ecotourism, one of the alternative types of tourism that has been developed, is gaining importance as a tourism approach that focuses on environmental sustainability and aims to protect natural areas and ensure the balanced use of ecosystems. Ecotourism, which has multidimensional objectives such as protecting the natural environment, ensuring the continuity of biological diversity, strengthening environmental awareness, and involving local communities in sustainable development processes, has become one of the cornerstones of sustainable tourism policies implemented in European countries.

The position of ecotourism within sustainable tourism policies in Europe was examined using a literature review method; assessments were made based on key components such as environmental protection, area management, visitor control, and local participation. The findings show that ecotourism practices are largely concentrated in national parks, biosphere reserves, and protected sensitive ecosystems; activities with low environmental impact, such as nature walks, bicycle tourism, wildlife observation, and environmental education, are at the forefront.

This section examines ecotourism practices developed in European countries in line with sustainability principles, addressing their conceptual, managerial, and spatial dimensions. Ecotourism stands out as a holistic tourism model that aims to protect natural areas, ensure the sustainability of biological diversity, and enhance the socio-economic well-being of local communities. The section compares how ecotourism is integrated with sustainability-focused policy and governance models in several European countries. Strong legal regulations, area management plans, and certification systems are among the key elements supporting the success of ecotourism in these countries.

However, the study also highlights problems that arise in the implementation of ecotourism. In particular, issues such as increased visitor density in popular natural areas, exceeding carrying capacity, inadequate infrastructure, social pressures on local communities, and the unfair distribution of economic benefits are emerging as key factors threatening the sustainability of ecotourism. Furthermore, the use of “green” rhetoric as a marketing tool and superficial practices can lead to deviations from the fundamental principles of ecotourism. The chapter reveals that ecotourism has become a strategic component of sustainable tourism in Europe; however, long-term success depends on effective management, local participation, and planning approaches based on environmental carrying capacity.