An Italian city is battling tourists. They're officially reintroducing entry fees for tourists.

Venice has captivated travelers' imaginations for centuries. Romantic gondolas, mysterious canals, narrow streets, and fairytale scenery. Sounds like the perfect day trip, right? Well, starting in 2026, such a pleasure will require not only planning but also… a fee. Venice is officially returning with an "entry fee," meaning a fee for day visitors .

Venice vs. mass tourism

Venice has long struggled with overtourism . Around 30 million people visit annually, a large portion of whom are so-called " hit-and-run" visitors who arrive in the morning, snap a few photos, and depart the same day. The result? crowded streets , high living costs for residents , and real damage to the city's historic fabric.

The authorities decided it was time for solutions. After tests in 2024, when the special fees system generated €2.4 million for the city , Venice decided to make it permanent and more widespread.

How much will you pay and when will the Venice one-day entry fee apply?

From April to July 2026 , on designated days, every tourist planning a day visit will be required to reserve a pass on a dedicated platform. The cost is €5. For latecomers, the price will increase to €10.

Previously, the system operated for 54 days a year; now it will cover 60. In practice, this means that during key periods of the season, especially long weekends, it will be impossible to spontaneously visit Venice. Romantic spontaneity is out of the question.

How does the "entrance ticket" to Venice work?

After booking, you'll receive a QR code on your phone, which can be validated at train stations, bus terminals, and even during random checks in city centers. No pass? You could face a fine of up to €300 .

Importantly, residents, people staying overnight in Venice, students and employees are exempt from the fee.

Will the "entry fee" discourage day tourists ? Critics have their doubts, but it's hard to deny that it's a step towards more sustainable tourism.

Venice Extra Fee 2026 - Exact Days

Here are the exact dates you will need a "pass" to visit Venice in 2026:

April : 3, 4, 5, 6, 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 May : 1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17, 22, 23, 24, 29, 30, 31 June : 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 26, 27, 28 July : 3, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26