Venice is one of the world's greatest attractions; however, during the pandemic, the city changed. It was a terrible time for everyone, but it opened the eyes of many to how bad the situation had become in Venice.
And I never want it to return to the way it was before.
During the coronavirus lockdown, tourists stayed away from Italy. The city of Venice went silent; it was unbelievable to see. We actually shared a video about it. Every time I watch that video, I cry. Venice without the tourists was so very beautiful but, somehow, very sad too. We need people in Venice, but we don't want to overwhelm the city so that we are no longer able to really see and appreciate the real Venice.
Now that restaurants, museums, and hotels in Venice are all welcoming guests once again, the question is: will Venice return to the way it was?
The video will show you exactly how the city was before and why I dread it returning to old ways. It explains why we need a new normal, a better Venice, and a better world.
We do not need the Venice tourism of yesteryear.
Yes, tourists have to come back; however, it simply cannot be business as usual. Tourism cannot inadvertently destroy the very city the tourists come to see.
I wonder too about the future of the massive cruise ships in Venice. Ships over 25,000 gross registered tons have now been banned, and, personally, I hope they don't return. They brought too many issues with them. Together with a number of other, mostly man-made causes, they are what caused the Venice flooding issue.
If you do visit Venice, try to stay in the city for at least a few days. Take the time to really appreciate the city and discover not only the main tourist attractions but also those out of the way and more genuine corners of Venice; support local shops that sell products made by locals and not mass produced in Asia; and eat at traditional restaurants rather than global fast food chains.
P.S. If you prefer a more genuine, slower and authentic Italian experience we would love to meet you. Please visit us on https://www.italymammamia.com/venice-tourism.html
Why has Venice introduced an entry fee for visitors?
Venice is implementing an entry fee to help manage the overwhelming number of tourists and generate funds for maintaining the city’s infrastructure. The fee is intended to reduce the impact of mass tourism on Venice’s fragile environment and historic sites.
How does overcrowding affect Venice and its residents?
Venetians are leaving the city in droves because housing is expensive, grocery stores are disappearing (replaced by souvenir shops), and daily life is becoming impossible. Imagine trying to get to work when your street is packed with selfie-taking tourists dragging suitcases!
What other measures are being taken to combat overcrowding?
In addition to the entry fee, Venice has implemented restrictions on large cruise ships, promoted alternative routes to reduce congestion in main tourist areas, and encouraged visitors to explore lesser-known parts of the city.
What can visitors do to support sustainable tourism in Venice?
Easy—come in the off-season (October to March), stay at least a night or two, explore beyond the tourist hotspots, and be mindful of local life. Here's what Venice is like in the off-season.
Are cruise ships still allowed in Venice?
Big cruise ships were banned from the historic center in 2021, but smaller ones still come in. Sadly, many of these visitors don’t stay overnight, so they don’t contribute much to the local economy.
Is Venice really that crowded?
Oh, you have no idea! In peak season, the streets around St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge can feel like a theme park on steroids. With cruise ships dropping thousands of people into the city for just a few hours, it’s no wonder locals feel overwhelmed.
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