Cities that charge tourists to mitigate mass tourism
02-10-24
Mass tourism has left a profound mark on many cities around the world. The constant influx of visitors has created significant challenges for local infrastructure, natural resources and the well-being of residents. Faced with this pressure, several cities have opted to implement tourist taxes or additional charges to control the flow of visitors, protect the environment and ensure a quality experience for visitors.
Venice: an Icon in the Fight Against Mass Tourism
Venice, Italy, has been one of the cities most affected by mass tourism. This iconic destination, with its network of canals and ancient history, has attracted millions of tourists each year for decades. However, this high volume of visitors has come at a cost. The city's infrastructure has suffered accelerated wear and tear, and local residents have seen their quality of life suffer.
To address this situation, Venice will implement from 2024 an entrance fee of €5 for tourists who spend the day in the city without staying overnight. This measure seeks to discourage short-stay tourism, known for not contributing significantly to the local economy. Overnight visitors to the city already pay an accommodation fee, so this new measure specifically targets those visiting only for the day.