Venice entrance fee experiment hailed as a success, fee increase considered
- The introduction of the entrance fee to Venice was a spectacular success, said Simone Venturini, head of the tourism department at the city administration, to PAP. This statement summarised the experiment that ended on 14 July.
On Sunday, the experimental phase of charging an entrance fee to the city for tourists who did not stay overnight ended. The fee was in effect for selected 29 days, starting from 25 April. Every person planning to visit Venice had to register their visit and download a QR code confirming the payment of the fee or exemption from it.
Venice concludes experiment
In total, during this period, almost 450,000 tourists paid for entry to the city.
Local authorities explained that the aim of this initiative - the first of its kind in the world - is to regulate the influx of tourists and improve the quality of life for Venice residents. This city experiences tourist crowds for most of the year.
- The initial phase of introducing the entrance fee to Venice was a spectacular success. The system functioned smoothly, and most importantly, tourists showed understanding and approval for this initiative. They understand the need to protect and respect Venice, a city as unique as it is delicate, said Venturini, head of the tourism department in the city administration, to PAP.
During checks, many guests praised the concept of paying a fee of £4 for the city's future. This achievement underscores the primary goal of the experiment: raising tourists' awareness that they are entering a UNESCO World Heritage site. This treasure must be preserved for future generations, he remarked.
Venice considers raising the fee
He explained that collecting this fee was not "a tool for making money". On the contrary, the entire amount obtained will primarily cover the costs associated with launching this system. He emphasised that the proceeds will be used to improve the quality of life for residents and the experience for tourists staying overnight in Venice.
The entrance fee is part of a long-term initiative and broader strategy, and one of the possibilities being considered is raising the amount collected from next year, he revealed.
- For now, it is too early for definitive conclusions, he added.
As he conveyed, an information campaign and other efforts to better manage the tourist influx are envisaged within the currently planned strategy, and this issue currently concerns all Italian and European historical cities of art.
