Venice to Double Its Tourist Tax

To tackle over-tourism and encourage local residency, Venice is set to increase its entrance fee to the city’s historic center. The fee, initially introduced at 5 euros in April, will rise to 10 euros starting in 2025. This increase is part of a broader strategy by city officials to manage the impact of high visitor numbers and promote sustainable living conditions within the historic areas.

The decision follows a successful trial period, during which the entrance fee generated €2.2 million in revenue. Despite the financial boost, city authorities emphasize that the primary aim of the new fee structure is not revenue generation but rather to address issues related to excessive tourism and enhance the quality of life for residents. By making access to the historic part of Venice more expensive, officials hope to deter large numbers of tourists and encourage more Venetians to settle in the area.

Additionally, the city has implemented a system of fines for those who fail to pay the entrance fee. This measure is intended to ensure compliance and support the ongoing effort to regulate visitor numbers. The increase in the entrance fee reflects Venice’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage and improving living conditions for its inhabitants amid growing concerns about the negative effects of tourism on the city’s infrastructure and local community.

As Venice prepares for this fee hike, authorities hope the changes will lead to a more balanced and sustainable approach to tourism, ultimately benefiting both the city’s historic environment and its residents.