Venice Expands Entry Fee System to Better Manage Tourists

Since the introduction of a tourist entry fee in Venice, Italy, a variety of reactions have followed. Venice has been struggling with the problem of "overtourism" due to the numerous tourists flocking from all over the world every year, and the city entry fee system was implemented as a pilot program to address this issue. However, the debate over whether this system is actually effective remains heated.

The Background of Venice's "City Entry Fee"

Venice, with its beauty as a water city, attracts millions of tourists every year. However, with too many tourists, the city's infrastructure has been overloaded, and local residents have complained about the inconvenience. As a result, Venice decided to introduce a city entry fee, the first among major cities in the world. This system was piloted for a total of 29 days from April to July this year (2024), focusing on public holidays and weekends.

Tourists paid 5 euros (approximately 7,500 won) as a city entry fee, and during this period, about 450,000 visitors paid the fee, generating approximately 3.3 billion won in revenue. The mayor of Venice announced plans to expand this system next year based on the success of the pilot program.

View of Venice / Source: freepik

Expanded City Entry Fee Starting Next Year

Starting next year (2025), tourists planning to visit Venice will have to pay an entry fee on more days. This system will be in effect from April 18th to July 27th, every Friday to Sunday, and on public holidays, for a total of 54 days. During this period, tourists must pay a 5-euro entry fee, but if they book within 4 days of their intended visit, the fee will increase to 10 euros (approximately 15,000 won).

The entry fee applies to all tourists over 14 years old, and after paying the fee, they will undergo inspection via a QR code. While this year no separate fines were imposed on tourists who did not pay the entry fee, fines will be imposed next year if caught. This shows Venice's determination to manage the system more thoroughly.

Controversy and Expert Opinions

However, questions are being raised about whether this entry fee policy can solve the overtourism problem. Some experts worry that simply imposing an entry fee will not effectively reduce the number of tourists and that a decrease in visitors could negatively impact Venice's economy.

Venice is particularly reliant on tourism, with shops, restaurants, and accommodations being a major source of income. A sharp decrease in the number of tourists would significantly impact the local economy. Nevertheless, Mayor Brugnaro stated that it is too early to assess based on the data so far and emphasized that the focus has been on encouraging tourists to avoid the busiest times.

View of Venice / Source: freepik

Limitations and Challenges of the Entry Fee Policy

The city entry fee will not completely solve Venice's overtourism problem. However, the purpose of this system is to alleviate congestion in Venice by adjusting the timing of tourist visits. The fact that the entry fee only applies to day-trippers suggests an intention to avoid burdening long-term tourists staying in Venice.

For the city entry fee system to be successfully established, communication and understanding with tourists are important. It is crucial to widely publicize that this policy is not simply about collecting fees but is necessary for the city's sustainability. Furthermore, it is necessary to emphasize that Venice is not trying to "drive away" tourists but is pursuing more sustainable and balanced tourism.

The Future of Venice?

Venice has enjoyed the love of tourists worldwide, but the resulting overtourism problem is becoming increasingly serious. While it is still too early to assess whether the entry fee system can alleviate this problem, this policy will allow Venice to build a more sustainable tourism model.

It is important to observe how effective the city entry fee, which will be expanded next year (2025), will be in reducing congestion in Venice and how much it will adjust the number of tourists. Venice will need to continue to address these challenges to maintain the city's charm while creating a sustainable tourist destination.