Venice, a city plagued by overwhelming numbers of tourists, has implemented a new system to combat the negative effects of mass tourism. Starting in April, day trippers will have to pay a 5 euro fee and register their presence online on specific days. The aim is not to make money, but to manage the number of visitors and disincentivize mass tourism, which impacts the quality of life for locals. The city is also taking steps to preserve its delicate beauty and uniqueness, which are threatened by climate change and rising seas, as well as by the influx of tourists.
To protect itself, Venice has installed gates to keep seawater out and banned cruise ships from its inner canals. The city has also been off UNESCO’s list of “World Heritage in Danger” despite concerns over protection measures last year. However, funding from the central government has not been renewed, and the city is advocating for financial support to help maintain its unique heritage. As a trial measure, tourists entering the city will be required to show a QR code, received after registering online, at various access points throughout Venice. Fines will be imposed on those who do not comply with the new system.
The initiative aims to gather data on visitor numbers and trends in order to improve the entry system in the future. The entry fee may be adjusted based on the day, creating a sliding scale of prices. More than 50,000 people have already registered through the website, showing a significant interest in visiting Venice. Despite potential inconvenience caused by the new system, Mayor Brugnaro emphasizes the importance of protecting the city and maintaining its integrity against the pressures of mass tourism.
Venice’s new measures set it apart as the first city in the world to control the number of tourists entering on a given day. The system is being closely monitored to assess its effectiveness and identify areas for improvement. By collaborating with other cities and sharing their data, Venice hopes to create a model that can be replicated in tourist destinations worldwide. The advertising campaign launched by the city highlights the need to balance tourism with conservation efforts, acknowledging the global appeal of Venice while prioritizing its sustainability and preservation for future generations.
