The number of inhabitants is falling, the number of tourists is rising. For centuries, the lagoon city has fascinated the masses. So much beauty comes at a high price - for the locals. On average, three locals move away from the old town of Venice every day....
Only 50,825 people currently live permanently in the old town of Venice. At the best of times there are 30 (!!!) million tourists per year. That makes about 600 tourists per inhabitant. Every day, three locals move away.
The historic centre of Venice is increasingly becoming a theme park, many locals complain. Instead of the Italian way of life, only tourism maximisation. Particularly unpopular are day visitors who cram the city but hardly spend any money.
The whole economy is one-sidedly oriented towards tourism. Flat rents skyrocket - holiday accommodation brings in more. Tourist shops are running, shops for daily needs are hardly profitable.
Public transport, in this case the water buses "vaporetti", are completely overcrowded in the centre even in low season. Added to this was the perverse situation with the cruise giants coming into the city. Banned only since this summer - under pressure from Unesco.
For many years, dhe lagoon city simply raking in money. This is to end next year - another attempt.
From 2023: Venice only with ticket
From January 2023, visitor crowds will be controlled via a turnstile. Access is only granted to those who have registered in advance. Cost: up to 10 euros, depending on demand on the day. According to Mayor Luigi Brugnaro, there is no other solution.
The city also wants to track the flow of tourists. With the help of surveillance cameras and mobile phone data, the movements of visitors are to be monitored - in real time, in an "intelligent control room". The total surveillance city is not a good feeling for everyone.
Beautiful Venice and the crowds. This wonderful city deserves a little air...
Also interesting: From 2023 - Venice only with ticket
Come along for a little spin
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More Information...by gondola through Venice
Venice to feel
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More InformationOn the way with the water taxi
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written by Annie Kayser, first published 30.10.21
Sources: own research in Venice; Deutsche Welle: "SOS Venice: Italy's lagoon city continues to struggle with crowds of visitors", Netzpolitik.org: "Surveillance in Venice - Smart City on the water".
