Venice is set to expand its entry fee scheme in a bid to curb overtourism.
The Italian city will expand the number of days it charges tourists to visit from 29 this year to 54 in 2025.
The new system will run from April 18 to July 27, with fees applying on Fridays, weekends and holidays.
Visitors who book less than four days in advance will pay €10, double the standard rate.
"We are the first city to confront overtourism," said mayor Luigi Brugnaro, describing Venice as "a pre-bookable city."
The historic city, home to just 49,000 residents, has struggled with overwhelming tourist numbers. Local shops have increasingly given way to souvenir stores selling gondola magnets and imported carnival masks.
Tourism chief Simone Venturini revealed that cities including Kyoto and Formentera have sought advice on Venice's pioneering scheme. "The world is asking Venice to share its experience as a pioneer," he said.
The current scheme has generated €2.25 million from nearly half a million visitors. However, critics argue it has failed to reduce tourist numbers, with opposition councillor Giovanni Andrea Martini noting "an average of 7,000 more visitors on ticket days."
Venice is also tackling Airbnb rentals, another factor in the city's tourism crisis. New rules will limit short-term rentals to 120 days annually unless owners personally greet guests.
"We are being pragmatic," said Venturini of the new measures, which are less strict than those imposed by other European capitals.
Hotel guests and bed and breakfast visitors remain exempt from the entry fee, with the mayor emphasising the aim is to better manage peak periods rather than discourage tourism entirely.
