Venice has reintroduced a tourist tax for one-day visitors, a move aimed at managing the overwhelming influx of tourists that has plagued the city for years. Starting from April 18, 2025, tourists planning to visit the historical center will be required to pay a fee of 5 euros, which applies mainly during peak hours from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. This new policy will remain in effect until July 27, 2025, as local authorities strive to preserve the city’s unique atmosphere and cultural heritage.
The tax is part of a broader effort by Venice to combat the challenges posed by overtourism. According to local officials, the city has seen a significant increase in visitors, which threatens to disrupt daily life and the integrity of its historic sites. The reintroduction of this fee comes after a previous version of the tax was abolished, but the current iteration is stricter, with penalties for those who do not comply.
Travelers who fail to register at least four days in advance will face a doubled rate of 10 euros. Furthermore, those who attempt to evade payment could incur fines ranging from 50 to 300 euros. The registration process will take place online, and upon successful payment, tourists will receive a QR code as confirmation of their payment.
Notably, the new tax will not apply to residents of Venice and the Veneto region, individuals traveling for work, study, or medical treatment, and tourists who are staying overnight. However, it has raised concerns among some locals and opposition members who argue for stricter controls on short-term rentals and one-day tourists to preserve the city’s character.
Venice’s precarious situation has not gone unnoticed by UNESCO, which has warned that without effective tourism management, the city risks being added to the list of World Heritage sites at risk of disappearing. A delegation from Venice is scheduled to discuss these issues at a meeting in Paris in July 2025, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
The local government hopes that the revenue generated from this tax, which amounted to approximately 3.2 million dollars last year, will help cover city expenses while also funding initiatives aimed at improving the visitor experience. This year, the fee will be collected almost twice as often to help manage tourist numbers during peak times.
As cities around the world grapple with similar issues of overtourism, Venice’s approach is being closely monitored by other tourist destinations such as Kyoto, Zermatt, and Formentera, which are considering implementing similar measures. The challenge remains not only to control the flow of tourists but also to restore Venice’s identity as a livable city with affordable housing and cultural opportunities, rather than solely a tourist attraction.
In summary, the reintroduction of the tourist tax in Venice reflects a growing recognition of the need for sustainable tourism practices. As the city navigates these complex challenges, it aims to strike a balance between welcoming visitors and preserving the unique charm that makes Venice a cherished destination.
