Venice plans to raise fees for day tourists

Venice authorities are considering significantly increasing entry fees for tourists visiting the city for just one day, The Guardian writes. The new mayor Simone Venturini proposes to increase the fee from the current 5-10 euros to 30-50 euros during periods of the greatest influx of visitors.

The paywall was introduced in 2024 as an experiment to combat overtourism. Although it has not yet led to a noticeable reduction in the number of guests, the project has brought millions of euros in additional income to the city. These funds are used to maintain city infrastructure and preserve the historical heritage of Venice.

The fee is currently valid on certain days of the high season. Residents of the Veneto region, children under 14 years of age and tourists who stay in the city overnight are exempt from paying it. However, even they are required to register in a special system and receive a QR code. According to Venturini, the fee increase should help regulate the flow of visitors on the busiest days and make the city more comfortable for local residents. To implement the initiative, the municipality will need approval from the Italian government.

The proposal has already caused controversy. Critics say the high cost of entry could turn Venice into a city accessible only to wealthy tourists, while supporters of the measure believe it will help protect the unique historical center from the effects of mass tourism.