Varenna on Lake Como: Entrance fee planned for tourists!

Varenna on Lake Como: Entrance fee planned for tourists!

Varenna on Lake Como is planning to introduce a landing fee of five euros for day tourists. This measure aims to address the problems caused by mass tourism and support infrastructure. Mayor Mauro Manzoni has submitted a corresponding request to the Italian Ministry of Economy. During peak season, the community of approximately 700 residents experiences a huge increase in visitors, leading to overcrowding, garbage build-up and strain on local infrastructure. Many day tourists bring their own food, which results in low consumption in local shops. Loud Mercury It is difficult to manage the crowds, especially on peak days.

Residents and business owners in Varenna hope the revenue from the entrance fee will go toward improved services. This initiative is supported by neighboring municipalities such as Bellagio, while Menaggio and Tremezzina are also considering joining the application. Many places in the region suffer from the negative effects of mass tourism, resulting in traffic jams, overcrowded beaches and garbage problems. The mayor sees the fee as a necessary means to maintain and improve tourist infrastructure after the railway line from Lecco to Tirano is closed until September 14 due to construction work, further exacerbating traffic problems.

Challenges in implementation

However, the legal framework for introducing the fee could prove challenging. Until now, entrance fees in Italy have only been applied to islands. Therefore, the decision on legal implementation still needs to be approved by the Italian Ministry of Economy. It remains to be seen how exactly the fee will be collected; Possible payment methods could be set up when entering the old town or in catering establishments, such as Watson reported.

In this context, it is important that Varenna and similar communities find a sustainable approach to tourism. The development of sustainable models for managing tourism could help to improve the quality of life of local residents and at the same time promote tourism offerings. In the neighboring municipality of Corenno Plinio, an entry fee of three euros was introduced in 2022, which is seen as a positive development. Varenna could follow suit to better address similar challenges.