Venice introduces a $6 fee for day tourists to ease crowding
In Venice, a reservation and payment system is being launched for tourists not staying overnight. The initiative aims to curtail one-day tourism during the high season.
8:17 AM EDT, April 25, 2024
Following preparatory phases, Venice embarks on an unprecedented experiment involving a $6 entrance fee on selected days for short-term visitors. This measure is being introduced to more effectively manage the daily tourist influx.
"Venice will continue to be a welcoming city for everyone," assured Simone Venturini, the head of the city's tourism department.
Tourist fee in Venice: Timing and Applicability
The Venice authorities have decided that the fee will be imposed on 29 days, specifically on April 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, May 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, 26, June 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, 30, and July 6, 7, 13, and 14.
Visitors scheduled to come on these dates must register through a special platform at https://cda.ve.it. Upon registration, they will receive a QR code, which must be presented during any checks within the city to verify the payment of the fee or an exemption due to having booked accommodations.
The $6 entry fee to Venice's historical center applies to individuals older than 14 years, with no available discounts.
Venturini highlights that Venice is pioneering this initiative with a clear understanding of its global novelty and significance.
Entry tickets to control one-day tourism
When asked about immediate penalties ranging from $56 to $337 for non-compliance, a city official indicated that initial enforcement would be lenient, focusing on educating the public.
The primary aim behind these measures is to establish a new tourist management system to mitigate the pressures of one-day visitors during the busiest seasons. These short-term tourists contribute significantly to overcrowding, staying just for a few hours.
Venice attracts approximately 20 million tourists annually, with only 6 million opting for overnight stays.
