In a bid to confront the surge of fleeting tourism, Venice has reinstated its entrance fee for visitors starting Friday. The city, renowned for its rich cultural and historical significance, aims to discourage what it calls “mordi e fuggi,” or "eat and flee" tourists, who flock to iconic spots like the Rialto Bridge and St. Mark’s Square, often leaving little economic benefit behind.
This year, officials have nearly doubled the number of days for which the fee will be enforced, from 30 in 2024 to 54 days in 2025. Day trippers will now need to pay five euros for entry, with a heightened fee of 10 euros imposed on those who seek last-minute permits.
Simone Venturini, Venice’s municipal councilor overseeing tourism, emphasized the entrance fee as a necessary tool to educate visitors on the city’s delicate nature. "Venice is unique and fragile," Venturini remarked. "Tourism to Venice must be more respectful."
The recent measures also include restrictions on cruise ships navigating the city's lagoon, addressing crowding concerns that have persisted for years. Venice's initiatives are part of a broader effort to preserve its cultural heritage and ensure that tourism contributes positively to the local economy rather than diminishing it. In adapting their approach to handling millions of visitors annually, officials hope to signal that the city's charm should be respected and financially supported by those who seek to experience it.
