Venice Unveiled: Beyond the Tourist Facade, A City of Enchantment Awaits

Venice, the city of canals has been remembered by tourists as a place of miracle and maze-like waterway, a magnificent monument of the Italian Renaissance. Due to its history, its artistry, and architecture, this wonderful place results in the attraction of nearly 20 million visitors who come to see the special memories they could take back home. But beneath this very façade of a tourist destination, there is a city grappling with the excesses of tourism and trying not to lose an identity of its own.

“Over-tourism: Venice launches world’s 1st tourist entry fee to dissuade visitors” shared by YouTube channel: Global News

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Venice’s charm is unquestionable. To safeguard Venice from the surge of day-trippers, the mayor imposed a 5 euro fee on tourists on certain peak days in spring and summer. This measure is a component of a wider plan to regulate tourist flow and preserve vulnerable urban environments. The prohibition of cruise ships entering the Venetian Lagoon enforced in 2021 is another decisive step to safeguard the city’s delicate equilibrium.

The new measures are a response to the fact that about 80% of Venice’s tourists are day tourists, who contribute very little to the local economy and exacerbate the city’s decline. Starting from 2024, all travelers are required to register in advance for access and obtain a QR code. Although children under the age of 14 and those traveling, studying or visiting relatives can be exempted, the city police and authorized inspectors will implement this policy and impose a maximum fine of 300 euros on those who do not comply with the regulations.

Some skeptics question whether nominal fees will prevent tourists from flocking to Venice. A city politician compares Venice to a “theme park, Disneyland,” where entry is made through a fee. However, this comparison overlooks deeper issues. Unlike Bhutan’s “sustainable development fee” of $100 per night, Venice’s approach aims to strike a balance between welcoming tourists and protecting the city’s essence.

The phenomenon of “Venice” proves the city’s struggle against excessive tourism. Residents endure the congestion, environmental damage, and cultural erosion caused by 20 million tourists every year. The decline of Venice’s permanent population from a peak of 175000 to about 50000 has sparked protests and dissatisfaction. The “Venice Funeral” and “Welcome to Venice” demonstrations highlighted the concerns of the local community that Venice is transforming into a pure attraction rather than a living city.

To address these concerns, experts suggest a combination of economic and non-economic policies tailored to each destination. The World Tourism Organisation’s report on overtourism outlines 11 strategies and 68 measures for managing visitor growth in urban areas. Barcelona’s success in managing mass tourism through a data-driven system and public engagement offers a potential model for Venice to consider, without resorting to entrance fees.

My personal journey to Venice was filled with anticipation and doubt at the beginning. Italy holds a special place in my heart, and after visiting Milan and Rome, Venice waved to me. Despite warnings of high prices, foul smelling canals, and overpriced cable cars, my first impression of Venice was overwhelmingly positive. The uniqueness, uniqueness, and beauty of this city have attracted me from the very beginning.

In my opinion, Venice is more like a shopping destination than a tourist destination. Although it has incredible attractions and rich history, many tourists come to enjoy the retail experience. My friends and I hiked around this city, enjoying the scenery along the main streets, Grand Canal, and smaller waterways. St. Mark’s Square boasts the stunning St. Mark’s Basilica and the Dogue Palace, making it the center of the city and attracting us with its charming charm.

Our spontaneous journey was filled with ice cream, souvenirs, and more ice cream. We cross the Riato Bridge, pass the Sigh Bridge, and immerse ourselves in the museums and history of Venice. However, this experience also taught a lesson. The importance of sunscreen, maintaining moisture, and avoiding tourist traps becomes evident as we navigate through the city.

Venice is perfect for pedestrians, walking is ideal for discovering hidden gems.

The winding paths and bridges reveal intimate squares, local shops, and stunning buildings everywhere. However, it is easy to get lost, so I suggest downloading an offline map or investing in a good old-fashioned paper map. However, getting lost in Venice is not a mistake; This is an opportunity to discover the true charm of this city.

For those moments that require rest, Venice’s public water bus vapor etti is a practical and scenic way of traveling. They are much cheaper than private water taxis, and you can see a unique perspective of the city from the water. Please be sure to verify your ticket before boarding to avoid significant fines. If you plan to frequently use vaporetti during your stay, please consider purchasing a travel card.

Let’s dive into the heart of Venetian culture – the food.

Venetian cuisine blends Italian flavors with fresh seafood. To avoid tourist traps, please venture away from the main attractions and find a place for locals to dine. Looking for Bacari, a small bar offering cicchetti, Venice’s response to snacks. These one bite sized snacks are perfect for tasting various local dishes without losing money. Paired with a Sprite, you’ll have a typical Venetian experience.

Venice is famous for its handicrafts, especially the glass on the nearby island of Murano. Although buying glass souvenirs in the city is tempting, I suggest taking a short steamed car to Murano. There, you can visit the studio, watch glass blowing demonstrations, and purchase genuine products directly from craftsmen.

As for accommodation, staying overnight in Venice also has benefits. When day tourists leave, the city changes at night and you can enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere. Consider booking a room in quieter areas such as Settori, Dosodoro, or Canareggio to experience the more residential side of Venice.

One highlight of my trip was meeting the Venetians.

Although the city is fighting excessive tourism, the locals still have that excitement to welcome people. My interaction with them not only made my experience enriching but also increased my respect for how resilient they were for the protection of the living culture in Venice. During my stay, I met a group of Venetian craftsmen who shared their concern regarding the future of the city. They are really keen on supporting local businesses and respect for the fragile environment of Venice. Their love for the city shines through so much, and it always returns me to our big travel choices, which are going to affect the places we go to.

Now, 5 euros per day to me, as a tourist, seems a little price for the preservation of this wonderful city. Yes, many people have compared Venice to a theme park, but I hold this charge to be a little step toward more responsible tourism. Not against the touristic visit, but responsible travel and a contribution to the city’s upkeep.

Venice is not simply a nice photographic backdrop; it’s living history combined with rich history and active local culture. Being wanderlusters, we have the privilege and the responsibility to explore respectfully so that cities like Venice can be enjoyed by future generations too. Pack your bags, charge your camera, and start your journey in Venice with an open heart and mind. You will find that Venice is something far from a tourist trap but a real treasure house of experience awaiting at your feet.