Venice is reinforcing its entry fee for day visitors, which was the first of its kind worldwide in 2024.
The historic city is doubling the charge and nearly doubling the number of applicable days.
Starting 18APR and for the following 54 days, up from 29 days last year, visitors arriving between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. without an overnight stay will pay 10 euros (CAD$14.77) to access the city. Last year’s fee was 5-euros.
The fee will be enforced every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from May through July. Those who book at least four days in advance will be eligible for a reduced fee of 5 euros, CNN reports.
Venice authorities have defended the decision, stating that the scheme aims to control the overwhelming flow of tourists.
Officials report that nearly 500,000 visitors paid the entrance fee in 2024, generating 2.4 million euros in revenue. However, the initiative's implementation cost and funding allocation have not been disclosed.
According to reports, other destinations, such as the Spanish island of Formentera and Kyoto, Japan, are also inquiring about the system.
Overnight visitors remain exempt from the fee but must register online at cda.ve.it to confirm their status.
Travellers merely transiting through Piazzale Roma, Tronchetto, or Stazione Marittima or visiting outer lagoon islands such as Lido, Murano, and Burano will not be required to pay the fee.
While city officials maintain the fee is essential for sustainable tourism, the measure has faced criticism. Protestors have expressed concerns about the initiative, arguing that it prioritizes tourist management over addressing housing and public services for locals.
