The controversial €5 entrance fee to the historic center of Venice has sparked a heated debate among city councillors and residents. Initially introduced as a trial to control visitor numbers, the fee has now come under scrutiny as critics claim it has failed to curb tourism and instead generated more revenue than expected.
Opposition councillor Giovanni Andrea Martini labeled the fee as a “grand bluff” designed to generate media attention rather than address the issue of overtourism in Venice. He argued that the city is facing social desertification, with entire districts being emptied of Venetians due to the overwhelming influx of tourists.
Despite the criticism, Simone Venturini, the councillor responsible for tourism, defended the scheme as a long-term project. He emphasized that the results of the fee should not be judged in the short term and hinted at a possible increase in the price next year.
Residents, including Enrico Tonolo, raised concerns about the invasion of privacy caused by the fee system, which requires them to declare personal data and reasons for visiting a residence. They also accused the scheme of being a tactic to avoid being listed as an endangered city by Unesco.
In response to the backlash, city councillors proposed stricter regulations on tourist accommodations and a cap on daytripper numbers to alleviate the strain on the city. The debate continues as Venice grapples with the challenges of balancing tourism revenue with the preservation of its cultural heritage and the well-being of its residents.