Venice, Italy, is escalating its efforts to manage the influx of tourists by doubling its access fee for day-trippers. Initially introduced as a pilot program in 2024 with a €5 fee, the city has now increased the cost to €10 for last-minute bookings made within three days of arrival. Bookings made four days in advance will remain at the original €5 price.

This decision follows a successful trial period, according to Simone Venturini, Venice's tourism councilor. The goal is to create a sustainable tourism model that respects the city's unique character while deterring excessive day tourism, especially during peak periods. The fee applies specifically to the historic center of Venice and not to the surrounding islands in the Venetian Lagoon.

Venice has implemented a tourism fee on select days in order to prevent overtourism. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno, File)

Certain groups are exempt from the fee, including residents, property owners, students, workers, individuals with disabilities, and children under 14. Additionally, attendees of specific events like the Venice Boat Show will be exempt. The implementation date for this increased fee is April 18.

This move comes as Italy continues to be a popular destination, with an estimated six million American tourists visiting in 2023. In addition to the increased fee, Venice will also enhance security measures, adding screening points at eight key locations, including major cruise ship terminals.

Venice, Italy has doubled its access fee pass from about $5 to $10 if booked in under three days. (Miguel Medina/AFP via Getty Images)

The announcement of the initial access fee last year sparked varied reactions on social media. Some supported the measure as a way to offset the costs of maintaining the city and managing the impact of tourism, while others criticized it as a form of exploitation and predicted it would not effectively address overcrowding.

Officials will also add increased security screens at eight different locations, including the main cruise ship docking areas. (Fox News Photo/Joshua Comins)

Some expressed concerns that the fee would transform Venice into a "theme park" experience, while others hoped it would deter excessive tourism altogether. The city of Venice has been contacted for comment on these concerns.