As per the latest reports, Venice introduced a novel program recently to levy a fee on day-trippers entering the historic Italian city, a pioneering move aimed at alleviating the pressure of mass tourism. Despite its status as one of the world’s most loved cities, Venice is grappling with the overwhelming influx of visitors.
Under the scheme, visitors purchasing a five-euro ($5.3) ticket gain access to the UNESCO World Heritage site for the day, with spot checks conducted by inspectors at key entry points. Approximately 10,000 tickets were sold by the time the initiative commenced, as stated by Simone Venturini, the local tourism councillor.
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If reports are to go by, the ‘Venice Access Fee’ is being piloted on 29 busy days throughout 2024, predominantly weekends from May to July. Unlike a capped ticketing system, the objective is to encourage day-trippers to explore Venice during off-peak periods.
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This idea has been tossed over for a considerable time but was consistently delayed due to worries that it could significantly reduce tourist income and impede freedom of mobility.
Opinions on the measure vary. While some view it positively as a means to potentially reduce tourist numbers, others, including members of the local residents association ARCI argue that it infringes upon freedom of movement.
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Mayor Luigi Brugnaro characterises the initiative as an experiment with gentle enforcement measures, aimed at managing tourist flows without creating queues. Visitors are urged to purchase tickets online in advance, although on-site purchases are permitted. A new ticket office has been established in front of the Santa Lucia train station, the primary entry point to the city.
Inspectors have the authority to fine individuals without tickets, with penalties ranging from 50 to 300 euros ($53 to $320).
Venice was listed as UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987, and is famed for its architectural significance, but now the city is facing challenges from unsustainable tourism levels, exacerbated by factors such as cruise ship visits and climate change-induced rising water levels.
Venturini hopes the initiative will encourage local Italians to avoid visiting on busy days, such as public holidays. Venice previously banned massive cruise ships in 2021, redirecting them to a more distant port.
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