Venice stiffens its tourist tax in 2025 for late payers

30-10-24

The iconic city of Venice will implement a stricter system of its controversial entrance fee for single-day visitors in 2025, extending the number of charging days and introducing a price penalty for those who fail to pay in advance.

Mayor Luigi Brugnaro announced on October 24 that Venice will maintain its “access contribution” with the aim of “better managing tourist flows” and discouraging single-day tourism in the city during certain periods. The measure was tested in 2024, although revenues exceeded expectations without a significant drop in visitor numbers, prompting criticism from residents who saw the fee as a “gateway” to their own city.

The 2025 fee will apply exclusively to the historic center and will exempt those making transit connections in places such as Piazzale Roma or the port. Unlike the previous year, the contribution will be charged for 54 days, nearly double the number of days in 2024, and will affect all day visitors over the age of 14.

To encourage advance planning, the price will vary according to the date of payment: those who make their reservation and payment more than four days in advance will keep the €5 price, as in 2024. However, visitors who pay at the last minute, within four days prior to their visit, will be charged a fee of 10 euros.

This pricing scheme seeks to better predict and manage the tourist impact on the city. Reservation and payment for access must be made on a dedicated website, where exemptions for family visits, sporting events or those staying overnight in the city will also be managed.

In addition, visitors staying in temporary accommodations must take into account new regulations for hosts that exceed 120 nights per year. These owners will be obliged to personally greet their guests, provide garbage bags and a 24-hour emergency contact.

With these measures, Venice aims to reduce the impact of tourism on its municipal infrastructure and improve coexistence with its inhabitants, promoting practices that favor local life.