Venice: dream destination or nightmare? Experiences of a vacationer

Venice: dream destination or nightmare? Experiences of a vacationer

Venice, known for its breathtaking architecture and romantic canals, is considered a dream destination for many. Nevertheless, there are voices who advise against further visits because of mass tourism. An author who traveled to the city in 2020 during the pandemic reports mixed experiences and highlights the challenges associated with tourism.

Italy is one of the most popular travel destinations for Germans and took second place among foreign travel destinations in 2024, only behind Spain. Around 8.6 percent of German vacation trips went to Italy. The author's first trip took him to Venice, where he was able to experience the city in a less crowded state. This enabled him to have a relaxing stay with culinary delights such as tiramisu.

The challenges of tourism

The increasing pressure from tourism is reflected in the numbers: in 2024, Venice received almost six million arrivals, with almost 90 percent being international visitors. The USA represented the largest market for inbound travel, followed by France and the United Kingdom. Despite the success in tourism, the city faces serious challenges.

Mass tourism is having a drastic impact on Venice's fragile ecosystem, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. Given the threat, Venice was on the verge of being placed on the endangered site list. Recent measures include a ban on large cruise ships in the lagoon and the introduction of an entry fee for day visitors. These steps are intended to help protect the city without making tourism more difficult.

Tourist densities and economic impacts

With a tourist density of almost 16,000 overnight stays per square kilometer, Venice is one of the most affected cities in terms of mass tourism. According to a study by Demooskopika, the pressure on the local population is increasing. It is recommended to better manage visitor flows and promote alternative travel destinations. A better distribution of tourism throughout the year can help relieve pressure during peak periods.

The challenge is further compounded by the high price of accommodation. Venice had the highest prices for four-star hotels in Italy in 2025, and Airbnb listings were more expensive than in Rome or Milan. This development could impact the average traveler's experience and further strain the social fabric within the city.

The author not only experienced the beauty of Venice, but also the dark side of tourism in Italy. After his stay in the lagoon city, he traveled to Rome, where he encountered crowded streets and bad weather. A theft while in Rome added an additional challenge to his experience. In Milan, where he found less crowded streets, the positive experience was marred by another theft.

In summary, Venice, despite its timeless beauty, faces serious challenges from mass tourism. The city and its residents are caught between preserving their unique culture and the need to meet the demands of modern travel. This makes it clear that decisive measures must be taken to sustainably preserve Venice as a tourist destination.

For more information about tourism in Venice, see the reports from Northern Courier and Statista.