Venice officials have announced an increase in the city’s day-tripper admission fee from EUR 5 (GBP 4.20) to EUR10 (£8.30) for those who book less than four days in advance. In a bid to manage tourist influx, the city will impose stricter regulations, including blocking additional entry days, raising prices, and enforcing fines for noncompliance. Visitors arriving between 8:30 AM and 4:00 PM on designated days must purchase an access pass in advance or face penalties ranging from EUR50 to EUR300.
The policy now applies to 54 days during the peak tourist months of April to July, up from 29 days last year. Venice officials argue that the measure aims to regulate tourism and preserve the city’s uniqueness. However, critics, including tourists and local business owners, view the fee as a revenue-driven initiative rather than a genuine solution to overcrowding. Many believe the approach fails to address long-term sustainability challenges or improve the visitor experience.
Venice first introduced the admission charge last year to deter “hit-and-run” tourists—those who visit for only a few hours without staying overnight. While the policy was designed to ease congestion, concerns remain over its effectiveness. Some worry that it disproportionately impacts short-term visitors without addressing underlying issues such as infrastructure strain and environmental damage.
As global destinations struggle to balance tourism’s economic benefits with its impact on local communities and heritage sites, Venice’s strategy is being closely observed. The outcome could influence other cities considering similar measures to curb overtourism while maintaining their appeal to travellers. Whether the increased fee and stricter controls will achieve meaningful change remains to be seen.
