Growing Opposition to Tourist Tax in Venice

In Venice, a significant number of visitors are now required to pay a daily tourist fee, which has drawn increasing backlash from both residents and travelers. As of now, approximately 33,000 people have registered on the portal to pay this fee. The charge, set at five euros, will be applicable on 54 days throughout the year, specifically from April 18 to May 4, and then every weekend from the second weekend in May until July 27. This fee applies during peak tourist periods, with enforcement hours from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM, similar to the regulations set in 2024.

For tourists who book their visits just four days prior to arrival, the fee doubles to ten euros. Upon payment, visitors receive a QR code via mobile that must be presented during inspections; failing to do so could result in fines of up to 300 euros. Notably, several exemptions have been established: locals, workers, students in Venice, hotel guests, and children under the age of 14 are exempt from this fee.

The implementation of this tourist tax has sparked protests among the local populace. Groups on social media platforms like Facebook and X have emerged, encouraging tourists to refuse to pay the fee. These groups have reportedly shared counterfeit QR codes online, prompting the city's budget commissioner, Michele Zuin, to express concern over the situation. He noted that the city has filed complaints with the public prosecutor's office regarding these actions, which he described as detrimental to the city's interests.

Since the introduction of the entry fee for day visitors last year, Venice has generated over 2.4 million euros in revenue. During the trial phase in 2024 alone, the city recorded approximately 485,000 paying visitors over 29 days. The introduction of this fee reflects ongoing efforts by the city to manage the overwhelming number of tourists that flock to Venice, which has been a point of contention among residents who struggle with the impacts of mass tourism.

As the city continues to navigate the balance between tourism and local quality of life, the debate surrounding the tourist fee is likely to intensify, with both residents and visitors voicing their opinions on the matter.