Venice Introduces Entry Fee for Day-Trippers Amid Controversy and Protests

The city of Venice has introduced a trial tourist tax for day-trippers, aiming to reduce over-tourism and protect its Unesco world heritage site. The €5 (approximately $8.21) charge will be applied on 29 peak days from April 25 to July 14, with visitors required to book and pay the fee in advance through a QR code system. Children under 14 and individuals visiting for professional reasons are exempt. Stewards have been trained to politely guide unaware tourists through the process, while officials will conduct random checks at designated entry ports. Transgressors may face fines ranging from €50 to €300. The scheme has sparked protests from residents' committees and associations, who argue that it will disproportionately affect local businesses and residents. However, the city's mayor hails the initiative as a bold experiment in reducing over-tourism.