Venice Implements Daily Tourist Fee Starting Next Year

Venice has approved guidelines to charge daily visitors a $5.50 entrance fee starting next year, initially testing it for 30 days on spring and summer weekends. The aim is to discourage daily tourism during certain periods and protect the city's fragility and uniqueness. The fee will be applicable to day-trippers over the age of 14, while commuters, residents of the Veneto region, and overnight visitors who already pay a lodging tax will be exempt. The plan, which aims to strike a balance between residents and visitors, is awaiting final approval. In 2019, day-trippers contributed only a fraction of the revenue compared to overnight visitors. The fee plan was delayed due to COVID, and UNESCO has recommended adding Venice to its list of World Heritage in Danger due to climate change and tourism's impact.