On Thursday, Venice, Italy became the first city in the world to charge day tourists a fee just to visit its historic canals and other attractions on peak days.
The measure is designed to counter over-tourism and mitigate the deleterious impact large crowds can have on some of the city's fragile sites, while also persuading some tourists to visit during less busy times of the year.
The roughly $5.37 fee only applies on 29 days that are deemed to be the busiest between April 25, a holiday in Italy, and July 14, in a trial phase of the reservation-and-fee system.
Most people entering the city must register and obtain a QR code, or a ticket for visitors without smartphones, but some tourists are exempt from paying the fee. For instance, visitors who spend the night in a hotel or Airbnb-style accommodation are not subject to the nominal tourist fee. Likewise, residents, people born in Venice, people visiting relatives who are residents, workers, students and visitors under the age of 14 do not have to pay either.
There is no cap on the number of tourists who may reserve a visit on a given day.
In a public announcement, Luigi Brugnaro, the mayor of Venice, referred to the new system as an "experiment" designed to protect the city.
Expressing humility, he stated, "We do it with great humility." In a social media post, he mentioned that the rollout was progressing smoothly, and the overall atmosphere was calm.
Simone Venturini, the tourism councilor of Venice, remarked, "The whole world desires to visit Venice, and we consider it an honor. However, not everyone can visit on the same day."
Despite this, some residents voiced their opposition to the new policy on Thursday, as per media reports. Instances of clashes with riot police and attempts to breach blockades were reported, as CNBC highlighted.
The delicate lagoon city, with a population of around 50,000, is only a fraction of what it used to be in previous generations. On its busiest days, the number of tourists it attracts nearly matches its resident count.
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Venice boasts masterpieces by renowned artists such as Giorgione, Titian, and Tintoretto.
