As Italy prepares for a surge in tourism during the Jubilee Year, major cities like Florence, Rome, and Venice are rolling out new measures to combat overtourism and preserve quality of life for residents.
From stricter short-term rental rules to expanded tourist taxes and visitor caps, here’s what travelers need to know in 2025.
Short-term rental restrictions
Italy has taken aim at the impact of Airbnb-style rentals on local housing markets. In cities like Florence, Rome, and Milan, campaigners have been protesting the spread of key boxes—used for self-check-in—by vandalizing them with red crosses. In response, the government banned key boxes in November, citing security concerns. Rental owners must now meet guests in person for identity verification and check-in procedures.
Venice expands day-tripper tax
Venice, a city long overwhelmed by tourism, is extending its €5 day-tripper tax to apply every Friday through Sunday and on holidays from April 18 to July 27, totaling 54 days. Additionally, last-minute arrivals—those booking fewer than four days in advance—will face a €10 fee. The initiative aims to reduce peak-day congestion and encourage longer visits.
Higher tourist taxes across Italy
Overnight tourist taxes remain in place, varying by city:
- Rome: €3 to €7 per night, depending on accommodation type
- Milan: €2 to €5 per night
- Florence: €1 to €5 per night
At the national level, the government is considering a new tourist tax of up to €25 per night for luxury hotel stays, with revenue supporting local services in less affluent areas.
Crowd control at Italy’s top attractions
With 35 million visitors annually, Rome is exploring a ticketing system for the Trevi Fountain to manage excessive crowds. Other historic sites have already implemented caps:
- Colosseum: Max 3,000 visitors at any time (since 2019)
- Pompeii: Max 20,000 visitors per day (introduced in late 2024)
These measures reflect Italy’s growing efforts to balance tourism with sustainability, ensuring both visitors and residents can continue to enjoy its world-famous cultural and natural treasures.
