All good things come to an end. As of April 25, 2024, tourists that entered Italy’s floating city for the day were made to pay an entry fee of five euro (approximately $8.30 AUD). In 2025, it’s set to double and last longer.  

The UNESCO-listed tourist hotspot will now run the day fee tax scheme for 54 days in 2025, up from 29 days in 2024. The fee structure has also been updated and favours those that are prepared in advance, rather than those popping in last minute. Travellers that pay the fee more than four days ahead of heading to the floating city will pay the five euro fee, but those booking within three days of their arrival will see the fee doubled to 10 euros (approximately $17 AUD).

So who does the day tax fee scheme affect? 

Anyone entering the city aged 14 and over without an overnight reservation (or an exemption) from 8.30am to 4pm. Tourists visiting for the day will need to access an online platform which will produce QR code “tickets” confirming payment or exemption. Kiosks are set up in the city, which visitors can pay the fee at. Online registrations are now open. 

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If you’re staying overnight in Venice, you will not need to pay the entry fee as you pay an overnight tax to the hotel. But, you will need to register to claim an exemption QR code. 

There are other exemptions for the scheme, though anyone exempt will have to carry a QR code proving this. People who own property in the city (and pay property tax), students and commuters working in Venice will have to register on the new online platform to obtain a long-term QR code valid for the year. If you’re visiting the city on business or short-term study, you will be exempt but will need to register for a daily QR code. 

Tourists who do not comply face fines that will range from 50 euros to 300 euros per person. 

Fines will range from 50 euros ($83 AUD) to 300 euros ($400 AUD) per person.

The scheme has been introduced to combat over tourism, which is affecting the structural integrity of the city at rapid rates. It will also target travellers docking in the city for the day as part of their cruise itinerary. The city hopes the new fees will deter tourists from disembarking.

For more information or to register for a QR code, visit cda.ve.it

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