Venice will restrict tourist groups and ban loudspeakers

Venice has announced it will limit tourist walking groups to 25 people and ban the use of loudspeakers in its latest bid to combat mass tourism.

Groups are also prohibited from stopping in narrow streets, on bridges or in passageways.

The new regulations, which further restrict tourist activities in the overcrowded city, will come into force in June 2024 in the historic center and on the islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello, according to a statement on the city of Venice’s website.

“Groups may not exceed 25 people, i.e. half of the passengers on a tourist bus. The use of loudspeakers that could cause confusion and disruption will also be banned,” the statement said.

Before the decision can be implemented, it must be submitted to the municipal council.

Security Council member Elisabetta Pesce described the development as “an important measure aimed at improving the management of groups” and “promoting sustainable tourism and guaranteeing the protection and security of the city.”

The museums in Venice already limit groups to 25 people.

Simone Venturini, the city’s councilor for tourism, said the move is part of a broader framework of interventions aimed at improving tourism management in Venice, creating a better balance between the needs of residents and those of visitors.

The new rules come into effect two months after the introduction of a trial visit fee of €5 ($5.40) for day trippers to the city.

It also comes after the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) recommended in July that Venice be added to the list of threats to heritage.

UNESCO called on the Italian government to “guarantee the utmost commitment” to addressing “long-standing problems” in the city.

The popular tourist destination has been struggling for years with too many visitors and the consequences of climate change.

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