Italy works against mass tourism

12-08-23

As Italy prepares to welcome record numbers of tourists in 2023, cities and regions such as Venice and Sardinia are introducing bans, controls and fees to try to manage the crowds. Will they work?

In Venice, tourists are expected to be on their best behavior. The northern Italian city has been battling the negative aspects of mass tourism for years and, as a result, strict rules for holidaymakers are being enforced this summer.

It is now forbidden to walk naked through the city or bathe in the canals. Sitting or lying on sidewalks, bridges, fountains and stairs is also prohibited. Violators will be fined.

The city government also intends to limit the number of people entering Venice. In 2019, Venice counted 5.5 million visitors, which is equivalent to 100 times the city's population. The introduction of an entrance fee for non-overnight travelers, announced several years ago by the Venice city council, has not yet been implemented. It has now been postponed until 2024.