Venice Carnival: A Magnet for Millions Amidst Overtourism Woes
As travelers flock to Venice for the world-famous Carnival celebration, they may be in for a tight squeeze.
Three million people travel to Venice every year for the Venetian tradition, according to the website of the tourist group Walks of Italy.
Carnival, known as Carnevale, has deep roots in history, dating back to 1162, a time when locals commemorated their triumph over the Patriarch of Aquileia. It wasn’t until the artists of the city united in 1979 to revive this vibrant festival that it regained its enchanting allure, the site notes.
During Carnival, crowds don many elaborate Venetian masks and colorful garb, fully immersing themselves in the myriad events scattered throughout the city’s breathtaking locales. Yet, the joy of participation can soon morph into a sense of disorientation. A TikTok video from Gazella, @gazellastudio, captures the chaos as tourists experience gridlock navigating the City of Canals.
“The city hasn’t been this crowded since. It has made life for locals difficult,” remarked Gazella, shedding light on how increased tourism transforms daily life for those who call Venice home. The locals, once accustomed to a more serene existence, now find weekends riddled with longer travel times and unpredictable crowds.
This video sparked conversations, amassing over 19,000 views as viewers poured into the comments to share their experiences.
“Nightmare. Worse than ever,” one user lamented, highlighting the frustrations that bubble over in the heart of this famous city. Another Tiktoker recounted, “Waited 2 hours for a vaporetto from Ferrovia on Saturday morning, didn’t even know it was Carnivale when we booked.”
“Experienced this today … Never again,” reflected a woman sharing her overwhelming interaction with the throngs. “It was so packed today. We weren’t expecting so many people.”
“It’s a shame how massive tourism is making beautiful cities less and less enjoyable,” remarked one concerned onlooker. The remark resonated, echoing the sentiments of many who feel the charm of this once tranquil oasis is quickly dissipating. Another warned, “Never go to Venice during Carnival.”
“Venice 365 days a year…” one user jokingly noted, emphasizing the city’s allure, yet inadvertently highlighting the persistent struggle with overtourism.
The city’s response to this escalating situation has evolved. In an effort to combat overtourism, Venice recently announced alterations to its tourist access fees.
Set to roll out on April 18, visitors will now pay an access fee of $5.17 if booked at least four days in advance. For those booking last-minute, within a three-day window, the fee doubles to $10.33 (10 euros), according to the city’s official site.
Pino Parisi, an Italian travel agent based in Connecticut, has noticed a substantial uptick in tourists to Italy this year. “Venice’s tourist taxes aren’t deterring people from flocking here. I don’t think it is making a difference,” he observed, reflecting the complex relationship between tourism policies and visitor behavior.
“Il carnevale di Venezia has always stood out as the most renowned in all of Italy,” he remarked nostalgically. Although the festival typically attracts a more localized Italian audience, the winter months don’t deter international tourists, leaving the city bustling year-round.
The Carnival festivities span from Friday, February 14, to Tuesday, March 4, reminding everyone that amidst the crowds, Venice’s spirit remains indomitable.
