Evasion, confusion and protests: How effective is Venice’s new tourist tax?

On 25 April, Venice launched an entry fee for daytrippers to the canal city. The trial period for this charge covers 29 days in May, June and July - including weekends and public holidays.

The measure was introduced to curb the number of visitors who only stay for a day. Those behind the fee say they bring less economic benefit to the city than overnight tourists and cause problems like overcrowding.

However, many Venice residents have criticised the entry ticket as ineffective in controlling visitor numbers while condemning the city council for overlooking critical issues such as housing.

Here’s what effect the fee has had one month since its introduction.

The launch of the fee on 25 April was met with protests from residents and confusion from tourists.

One key misunderstanding was that although visitors who have booked overnight accommodation in Venice are exempt from the daytripper fee, they still have to register their presence on the booking platform.

Other visitors found the website difficult to navigate and buying a ticket a lengthy process.

Stewards were on hand to check if tourists had downloaded their QR code and guide them through the procedure if not.

Residents were also out in force, protesting against the fee which they say will not have a meaningful effect on reducing visitor numbers and avoids addressing more fundamental issues like the housing crisis.

Critics also say the need for students and commuters to obtain a QR code (even though they are not required to pay) is impractical.

Ex-mayor of Venice Massimo Cacciari has called the fee “absurd” and told tourists not to pay saying it goes against freedom of movement.

The entry fee is currently set at €5 and applies to day visitors with exceptions including residents