This Italian city is latest to fight overtourism

This Italian city is latest to fight overtourism

Milan has become the latest European hotspot to announce measures to tackle overtourism. The bustling fashion capital, is proposing new regulations that aim to reduce late-night activity. The city is considering a ban on pizza and ice cream sales after 12:30 am on weekdays and 1:30 am on weekends, as well as enforcing closing times for outdoor areas of restaurants and bars.

Milan’s deputy mayor of security, Marco Granelli, explained the reasoning behind the new proposal: “We are seeking a balance between sociality and entertainment, the peace and health of the residents, and the free economic activity of traders and entrepreneurs.” However, the response from locals has been mixed, with some expressing concern that the new rules could impact business for shop owners.

Milan isn’t the only Italian city announcing such measures. In Venice, a tourist tax is being tested as of spring 2024, requiring day-trippers to pay an additional fee to enter the city. This measure is designed to reduce the overwhelming crowds during events like the Biennale.

In recent years, Europe has faced significant challenges due to overtourism, with the influx of travelers seeking warm weather, sandy beaches, and lively atmospheres during summer months reaching unprecedented levels. The summer of 2023 set a new record for Greek tourism, with 16.9 million visitors during peak season. This surge in tourists has prompted destinations across Europe to take action, implementing various measures to manage the overwhelming crowds.

In Greece, authorities have introduced several trials to address overtourism. At the Acropolis, a new time slot system aims to reduce the long queues and hours-long wait times for entry. The Greek government is also implementing restrictions to decrease crowds along the country’s picturesque shores. These limitations include a cap on the number of bars and restaurants on a newly established list of 198 protected beaches.

Amsterdam launched a “stay away” campaign in 2023, aiming to dissuade tourists from visiting the city for stag parties and drug-related activities, specifically targeting smoking cannabis in the red-light district. Additionally, a new rule seeks to limit the development of new hotels in the city. Under this stricter policy, new hotels can only be constructed under specific conditions, such as the closure of an existing hotel. The legislation is in response to a campaign by 30,000 Amsterdam residents who demanded increased control over tourism. The policy also places a cap on 20 million overnight tourist stays per year.

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