Traveling to Venice for a day? You better be ready to pay a €5 fee then! You read that right. As of April 25, 2024, it became the first-ever city in the world to introduce a tourist fee. All that to try and curb over-tourism! The main purpose of the fee is to curb overcrowding, which has strained Venice's infrastructure and historic sites. Of course, if you’re staying the night you don’t have to cough up the fee. This one’s only for day trippers or as they call them hit-and-run tourists!
Is the Venice tourist fee for everyone?
So if you’re there to explore the gorgeous Italian city, spend time in Doge’s Palace, St Mark’s Basilica and go on gondola rides for more than 24 hours, you don’t need to worry. Early birds and night owls rejoice—you're exempt from this fee, making those serene sunset strolls by the canal all the more sweet. According to The Guardian report, There between 8.30am and 4pm? Yup, you’ll need to pay. But hey, don’t let that deter you from meandering through the gorgeous city. That €5 will be totally worth it. And who knows, the pilot program may not even last beyond the trial run of 29 days which aims to target peak weekends and other busy days until mid-July. This also is only for visitors above the age of 14 years.
Why the fee?
Venice isn't just another destination; it's a living, breathing museum without walls, and like all precious artifacts, it needs upkeep. The funds collected will be channeled directly into maintaining and enhancing this UNESCO wonder. Imagine strolling through Piazza San Marco without bumping shoulders every few steps, or quietly admiring the reflections on the waterways without the constant buzz of the crowd. This fee is Venice’s way of ensuring you get to experience its magic, minus the mayhem. Or that is the aim at least, by the local government. Residents however, are not very pleased with the bold move, and are calling the implementation of this fee against the Freedom of Movement.
