The Most Serene continues to adapt to the challenges of overtourism with an ambitious project. Starting in 2025, the famous city of Venice will double its tourist tax for certain tourists, especially those who do not plan their visits in advance. This initiative aims to preserve the authenticity of this iconic city while regulating the influx of visitors. The details of this new policy will undoubtedly attract the attention of travel enthusiasts eager to understand the impact of these measures on their experience in Venice.
In an effort to regulate overtourism and protect its precious historic architecture, the city of Venice has announced significant changes to the tourist tax starting in 2025. This tax, which currently stands at five euros for day visitors, will be doubled for those who book their trips at the last minute. While this measure has sparked numerous reactions, it is legitimate to wonder what the repercussions will be for the City of the Doges and its millions of annual visitors.
An adjustment to combat overtourism #
The decision by Venice to modify its entry tax is far from being a knee-jerk reaction. Announced for the first time in August 2021, this measure was introduced on April 25, 2024. Lasting for one year, it mainly targets day tourists, thus separating temporary visitors from residents and those staying in the city. With the increase in cost to ten euros for reservations made less than four days before arrival, authorities hope to encourage travelers to plan ahead.
An impact on travel habits #
The question now is the impact of this new tax on tourist habits. By doubling the tax for last-minute bookings, Venice encourages vacationers to plan their stays and avoid spontaneous visits. This could lead to a shift in travel habits, prompting tourists to book their stays well in advance, thereby minimizing tourist pressure during peak times.
The schedule for implementing the tax #
Starting from April 18, 2025, the entry tax will be in effect for a total of 54 days, compared to 29 days in 2024. High-traffic periods, such as the weekends in May and June, will be closely monitored. Residents of Venice will continue to be exempt from this tax, but for passing visitors, planning will become essential to avoid additional costs.
A response to international pressure #
The changes made to the tourist tax are not unrelated to the pressure exerted by UNESCO and other international bodies. In 2023, Venice narrowly escaped being placed on the list of World Heritage sites in danger, prompting local authorities to take concrete actions to protect the city. Some voices, such as that of Isabelle Kahna, point out that these taxes may seem like “facade measures” to respond to external expectations without actually changing the volume of tourists.
Towards regulation of tourist rentals #
Beyond the entry tax, the Mayor of Venice, Luigi Brugnaro, has discussed future regulation of tourist rentals. These measures could include requirements such as physical hosting of visitors by hosts and providing recycling bins in properties. This shows a commitment to go beyond simple taxes to integrate a broader vision of sustainable tourism.
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What future for Venice? #
With an influx of nearly 30 million tourists per year, Venice must find a balance to preserve its heritage while remaining an accessible destination. Increases in the tourist tax and new regulations could provide effective solutions for alleviating congestion in the city. However, the challenge remains significant. The coming years will be crucial to observe whether these efforts bear fruit and contribute to a sustainable future for the legendary City of the Doges.
