by Donald Wood
Last updated: 8:50 AM ET, Mon March 4, 2019
Officials from the popular Italian city of Venice have voted to impose a tourist fee for travelers that will be used to help maintain the historic destination.
According to Reuters.com, Venice welcomes an estimated 25 million tourists each year, but around 14 million arrivals only stay one day in the city, often bringing their own meals and adding no income to local businesses.
City councilors voted in support of the entrance fee last week, which would charge travelers arriving in Venice $3.42 per day. In 2020, the prices will increase and tourists will be charged between $7-$11 per day, depending on the season.
"This is a significant turning point in the management of Venice's tourist flows," Venice Mayor Luigi Brugnaro told Reuters.
"Venice needs respect, and as is the case with museums, sports stadiums, cinemas, trains and airplanes, it needs to have planned visits... which makes it sustainable both for tourists and the city," Veneto governor Luca Zaia said.
The population of Venice continues to drop as residents complain about the city being overrun by tourists, with locals being stuck with the bill to clean up and protect the region. The new tax will likely be collected by transport companies bringing visitors to the city, who will add the fee to the cost of tickets.
As for travelers who spend the night in local hotels and children under the age of six, they will be exempt from the new fee.
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.
Topics From This Article to Explore
