Venice will become the first in the world to charge an entrance fee, as locals warn the city is being overwhelmed by tourists and its historic landmarks are at risk
Italy’s floating city will become the first in the world to charge an entrance fee.But some say everyone in the world has a right to see Venice, booking or no booking.The city long referred to as La Serenissima, translated into English as The Most Serene, is no longer so peaceful.and its winding alleyways are again in high demand.
The new fee will come into effect on January 16 next year, making it the first city in the world to charge an entrance fee. Tourists who choose not to stay overnight in hotels or other accommodation will have to sign up online in advance for the day they plan to come and pay a fee.These will range from €3 to €10 , depending on advance booking and whether it’s peak season or the city is crowded. The busier the city gets, the higher the charge.
On average, only about 30 per cent of tourists who flooded the city annually before the pandemic stayed for one night or more. But those visitors account for around 70 per cent of tourism revenue, and for 100 per cent of tourist tax payments which amount to some €30 million per year. Visitors to Venice have also recently received fines for swimming in the canals, which is prohibited, and sunbathing topless on a historic landmark.Four German tourists chose to use an 18th-century wellhead in Campo Zaccaria as their picnic spot last month and were fined more than €1000 each. They had spread a tablecloth over the stone structure in the centre of the square and set out chairs around to enjoy their lunch.
“Venice is a city of the world. Every person coming from the other side of the planet has the right to see it, booking or no booking.”Earlier this year, the city announced it would attempt to stem the tide of tourist shops selling “tacky” Chinese-made souvenirs and to boost local craftsmanship. The new rules to spruce up the historic centre prevent the introduction of new businesses selling plastic gondolas, €2 carnival masks and Venice-themed gadgets imported from Asia.
Dina Ravera, head of tour operator Italia SpA, says you simply can’t allow a city like Venice “to be devastated by hordes of tourists”.
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