In a recent interview, Venice’s Mayor Luigi Brugnaro highlighted the success of this year’s trial fee for day visitors. He explained that the initiative aimed to mitigate the impact of excessive tourism and to ensure that Venice receives the respect it deserves. As a result of this success, the city plans to expand the entry fee program next year.

Starting from April 18 to July 27, during the peak season, non-overnight visitors will be required to pay a fee of at least €5 (approximately $5.41) to enter the city on weekends and public holidays. This marks a significant increase, as the total number of pay-to-enter days will rise to 54, nearly doubling from this year.

Brugnaro referred to the plan as a “first step” in managing tourist flow, emphasizing the intention to encourage day visitors to consider visiting Venice during the off-peak seasons. Additionally, he announced that those who book their visit within four days of entry will face a higher fee of €10 (around $10.82), while other visitors will still pay the regular €5 charge.

For the first time this year, the city implemented this entry fee starting April 25 and running through mid-July, charging day visitors on a total of 29 weekends and public holidays. Non-overnight travelers entering between 8:30 AM and 4 PM were required to reserve and pay online in advance. Exemptions were granted to residents, overnight guests, and certain individuals working or studying locally. Over the four-month trial period, the city collected approximately €2.4 million (around $2.6 million) in fees.