Lake Como will implement a tourist tax like Venice to avoid overtourism

Friday, April 19, 2024

Lake Como, a renowned Italian travel destination, is considering implementing a tourist tax similar to Venice’s model, as disclosed by Alessandro Rapinese, the mayor of Como city. This picturesque locale in Lombardo, northern Italy, which draws approximately 1.4 million visitors annually and has featured in films such as Lady Gaga’s “House of Gucci” and the James Bond movie “Casino Royale,” is exploring additional revenue options to manage its tourist influx.

The mayor shared that discussions about introducing a tourist tax are underway. He expressed that true change starts with concrete actions, and the city is prepared to embark on this significant shift. Implementing such a tax, however, presents challenges, as Alessandro noted the complexities involved in governing a city heavily frequented by tourists.

The proposed tourist tax in Como would target day-trippers and is likely to be enforced only on public holidays and weekends. This strategy aims to manage the high visitor traffic during peak times without discouraging tourism altogether.

Laura Evans-Fisk, head of digital engagement at eurochange, commented on the responsibility of the tourism industry to support both destinations and their inhabitants. She highlighted that visitors are drawn to Lake Como for its stunning beauty and excellent cuisine, expecting it to be well-maintained, which incurs significant upkeep costs.

Despite the potential annoyance for visitors, tourist taxes are seen as beneficial for the long-term enhancement of travel experiences. The revenue generated from these taxes is typically invested back into tourist infrastructure and various improvements, thereby making destinations more appealing and sustainable for future visits.

The exact amount of the proposed tourist tax for Lake Como has not yet been determined, but the introduction of such a fee could have significant implications for global travelers and the tourism sector. If implemented, this tax could ensure that Lake Como remains a desirable and well-preserved destination, albeit potentially at a higher cost to visitors. This move could set a precedent for other popular destinations facing similar challenges of balancing tourism growth with environmental and infrastructural sustainability.

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