Venice Evaluates Tourist Entry Fee and Overtourism

Venice has completed the second trial phase of its daily entry fee system, aimed at curbing overtourism. The measure generated increased revenue but raises concerns about its effectiveness and the risk of turning the city into a "Disneyland."

Before the pandemic, Venice received up to 60,000 tourists daily, with an annual number reaching 30 million. In 2024, a special fee of 5 euros was imposed for the first time on day-trippers. This year, the fee was applied for 54 days, generating revenue of 5.4 million euros and 2,500 fines for tourists without a ticket.

Supporters of the measure see it as a symbolic message for the protection of fragile Venice, while the revenues are reinvested in maintaining infrastructure and improving the quality of life for residents. However, critics argue that the fee does not solve the problem of overtourism due to the many exceptions and the absence of a visitor cap, while expressing fears of turning Venice into a tourist theme park.