Venice is working on limiting the number of day-trippers who flood the city, overwhelming its population and threatening its future. Authorities are set to propose a hefty hike to the entrance fee to Venice that was introduced in 2024, saying that it is too low to be an effective deterrent. According to Simone Venturini, the city’s budget and taxation councilor, the current levy of €5 to €10 is too low and has failed to have the desired effect. Experts who advised the Venice administration said a round sum of €30 would be more effective, but any increases would require the government’s approval.
Venice Day-Ticket History
In 2024, the Venice day-tickets were launched with a trial. They were introduced for 29 days, spread across April and July, and cost €5 each. In 2025, the trial scheme resumed, with the fines increased to €10 for those who buy tickets at short notice. The number of days when the system was in place also increased.
In 2026, a new system was introduced, according to which day visitors would have to pay to enter the city on 60 days between 3 April and 26 July. The days see crowds swelling in the city’s historic center – specifically between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. Children under 14 and those who book in advance will receive discounts. Day-tickets will be waived for people staying in Venetian hotels, who already pay a tourist tax.
The Scale of the Challenge
Venice is one of the most overcrowded cities in the world, attracting up to 100,000 tourists a day at peak times. There were around 6.3 million day visitors in Venice in 2024, compared to approximately 48,000 permanent residents.
“Tourism is inevitable, but it has to be managed in a way to make the city more pleasant to live in for its inhabitants,” Venturini said. More than €5.2 million was raised via the Venice day-ticket sales in 2024 alone despite the scheme being in place for only part of the year. With the new levy, the expected revenue for 2026 is set to be even higher. Authorities hope that the additional funds will help finance the restoration of this beautiful city.
