Venice, one of Europe’s most popular holiday destinations, is reintroducing a significant fine of up to £260 (€300) for UK tourists who fail to pay the city’s newly reinstated tourist tax this summer. This move aims to regulate the flow of visitors and preserve the city’s unique heritage.
Starting April 25, 2024, Venice became the first metropolitan area in the world to charge an admission fee for day-trippers. The tax varies depending on how far in advance travelers book their visit: those who reserve less than four days before arrival must pay €10 per person, while bookings made more than four days in advance incur a €5 fee.
Certain groups are exempt from the fee, including Venetian residents, native Venetians, students, workers, and overnight guests. Additionally, visitors entering the city before 8:30 am or after 4:00 pm do not have to pay.
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Tourists who do not pay the fee when required, or who fail to display the QR code confirming payment or exemption, face fines ranging from €50 to €300—amounting to approximately £260 at the highest level.
City council member Giovanni Martini criticized plans to increase the fee, stating, “Wanting to raise this to 10 euros is absolutely useless. It makes Venice a museum,” highlighting concerns about the city’s balance between tourism and local life.
The tourist tax will be enforced on selected dates spanning from early April through late July, covering weekends and peak travel days to better control visitor numbers during busy periods.