Venice City Hall recently announced a strategic adjustment to how tour groups are managed in the historic city center and on the neighboring islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello. The plan limits the size of groups that are escorted by guides, effectively reducing the number of people in each tour. In practical terms this means that roughly half the passengers on a typical tourist bus will participate in guided visits, while the other portion explores different routes or experiences on their own. The aim is to create a smoother, more controlled flow of visitors through the heart of Venice without compromising the richness of the city’s cultural heritage.
The proposed measure also seeks to address the potential issues that can arise when amplified sound systems are used during tours. The use of loudspeakers and other audio devices can lead to confusion and discomfort for residents and visitors alike, particularly when crowds are already dense in narrow canal-side streets. Before it is enacted, the proposal must be approved by the City Council, with a clear date set for enforcement on June 1, 2024. This scheduling signals the city’s intent to implement the change in a timely fashion, allowing operators of guided tours to adapt their practices in advance and ensuring a predictable transition for tourism stakeholders.
The decision stems from the latest municipal meeting, held on a recent Saturday, during which officials approved a resolution amending the City Police and Security Ordinance. The change reflects a broader effort to balance the needs of visitors with the daily realities of local life in Venice. It is framed as a step toward more organized tourism that protects public safety while preserving access to the city’s most cherished sites, such as the historic center and the lagoon islands.
Speaking on behalf of the Security Council, Elisabetta Pesce described the measure as a meaningful move toward better management of organized groups. She emphasized that the goal is to enhance tourism sustainability, safeguard the security of the city, and support the well-being of residents and workers who live and operate in the area. The approach aims to create an environment where visitors can enjoy the city’s extraordinary architecture and waterways without overwhelming the local infrastructure or compromising safety.
Simone Venturini, a member of the Tourism Council, underscored that the change is intended to improve the overall experience for travelers while maintaining harmony with residents. He noted that a more balanced distribution of tourist activity would reduce congestion, shorten wait times at popular crossroads and landmarks, and encourage a slower, more immersive way of exploring the city. In turn, this approach helps ensure that the needs of residents and workers are better respected by those who come to visit.
Venturini added that the new policy did not appear out of nowhere. It is the culmination of a series of studies, negotiations, and ongoing discussions with industry categories and operators who understand the delicate dynamics of Venice’s visitor economy. The city has repeatedly highlighted the importance of sustainable practices, responsible tour routing, and the reduction of noise and disruption in the narrow streets that define Venice’s unique urban fabric. The measure is designed to provide a framework within which tour operators can coordinate with municipal authorities to deliver high-quality experiences in a way that minimizes disruption while maximizing safety and enjoyment for all parties involved.