Venice, Italy—the floating city of canals, romance, and Renaissance charm—has long been one of Europe’s most magical destinations. But in 2025, that magic may be wearing thin. With new tourism regulations, environmental challenges, and rising frustration among locals and travelers alike, Venice may not be the dream trip you expect.
If Venice is on your travel radar this year, read this first. Here’s the truth about visiting Venice in 2025, and why it might just ruin your trip—unless you know what to expect and how to navigate it.
Read here Mistakes to avoid in Venice and our recommended sim card in Italy
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1. A Daily Tourist Fee Is Now Mandatory
Starting in April 2024, Venice began charging day-trippers an entry fee—a controversial move that’s still in effect (and expanding) in 2025.
The fee is €5 per person (for now), but may rise during peak months or weekends.
It applies only to day visitors, not overnight guests—but enforcement is patchy.
You must pre-register online and carry a QR code to show upon request.
Why it matters: Many travelers arrive without knowing about the fee and face confusion, fines, or denied access to popular areas. This adds another layer of bureaucracy—and stress—to your day.
2. Overtourism Has Reached a Boiling Point
Venice receives over 20 million visitors per year—a staggering number for a city of just 50,000 full-time residents. In 2025, even with regulations, the crowds haven’t eased much.
What that looks like:
Two-hour waits for gondolas or St. Mark’s Basilica.
Shoulder-to-shoulder crowds in Piazza San Marco.
Packed water buses (vaporetto) that feel more like subway cars than scenic rides.
The once-tranquil alleys are now congested with guided tour groups, selfie sticks, and Instagrammers blocking views.
Result: Instead of feeling enchanted, you might feel overwhelmed, overheated, and frustrated.
3. Prices Have Skyrocketed
Venice has never been cheap, but in 2025, it’s edging into luxury-only territory, especially for tourists.
€7 for a cappuccino in tourist zones
Gondola rides now averaging €100 for 30 minutes
Budget hotel rooms going for €200–300 per night in high season
Mandatory “coperto” (cover charge) even for casual meals
Worse, some establishments hike up prices based on perceived nationality or language, leaving many travelers feeling taken advantage of.
Budget-conscious travelers beware: You’ll pay a premium, often for underwhelming service or quality.
4. The City Feels Like a Museum—Not a Place
With locals increasingly priced out and traditional shops replaced by souvenir stands, Venice in 2025 feels more like a themed attraction than a living city.
What’s changed:
Fewer Venetians live in the historic center.
Authentic artisan shops are disappearing.
More apartments are now Airbnbs than homes.
The vibe: You’re walking through a postcard, not an authentic Italian neighborhood. Many visitors leave feeling like they never truly experienced Venetian life—just the curated tourist version.
5. Cruise Ships Are Still Causing Controversy
While cruise ships were technically banned from docking in the historic center in 2021, they’re still arriving—and still controversial.
Large ships now dock nearby and bus passengers into Venice, keeping crowds high.
Environmentalists warn of damage to the delicate lagoon ecosystem.
Locals continue to protest the sheer scale of daily cruise passengers.
What it means for you: Entire mornings or afternoons can feel overrun with 3,000+ cruise visitors all trying to see the same landmarks at once.
6. Climate and Flooding Are Getting Worse
Climate change is rapidly affecting Venice.
In 2025:
“Acqua alta” (high water) now occurs more frequently, especially in fall and winter.
Elevated walkways are set up during floods, but they’re crowded and unstable.
The MOSE barrier system helps, but isn’t always deployed in time.
Even in dry seasons, weather can shift rapidly. A sunny morning might turn into a flooded afternoon.
If you’re not prepared with waterproof shoes or flexible plans, your day may be cut short—literally underwater.
7. Expectations Rarely Match Reality
It’s hard to escape the dreamy Instagram images of Venice—sunset gondola rides, silent canals, a romantic glass of wine overlooking a quiet square. But the reality in 2025 often looks more like this:
Long lines.
Tourists pushing for selfies.
Confusing signs and transport chaos.
Overpriced food.
A sense of disappointment when you realize you’re one of a million chasing the same moment.
Many travelers now say: “I’m glad I went… but I wouldn’t go again.”
Should You Skip Venice Entirely?
Not necessarily. Venice is still one of the most unique cities on Earth—and for some, that alone is worth it. But you must go in with realistic expectations.
If you do visit:
Go in the off-season (late fall or early spring).
Stay overnight to see the city after the day-trippers leave.
Book everything in advance, including tours and restaurants.
Spend time in lesser-known neighborhoods like Dorsoduro or Cannaregio.
Consider Venetian islands like Burano or Torcello for breathing room.
Better Alternatives to Venice in 2025
If you’re looking for charm, canals, and Italian flavor—without the stress—consider these destinations:
Amazing food culture, fewer tourists
Authentic local life
Easy access to Florence and Modena
Lecce (Puglia Region)
Known as “the Florence of the South”
Stunning baroque architecture
Great beaches nearby
Peaceful canals and bridges
Affordable, clean, and welcoming
Excellent food and wine scene
Giethoorn, Netherlands
Nicknamed the “Venice of the North”
Picturesque canals, no cars
A relaxing, crowd-free experience
Gorgeous coastal towns with Venetian influence
Lower costs, warmer hospitality
Fewer crowds, authentic charm
Final Verdict
Venice isn’t “bad”—it’s just overloaded. The city is still beautiful and historic, but in 2025, the experience often doesn’t justify the price, hassle, or crowds. Many travelers walk away frustrated, feeling like they paid for the postcard but received the brochure.
If you’re seeking romance, culture, or an unforgettable Italian experience, you may want to skip Venice this year and explore one of its lesser-known (but equally stunning) cousins. Your sanity—and your budget—will thank you.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.