Italy is taking decisive action to tackle the surge in 'wedding tourism' that has overwhelmed its historic cities, particularly Florence and Venice. New regulations aim to preserve the cultural integrity of these UNESCO-listed destinations while managing the influx of visitors.
Why the Crackdown?
Authorities have grown increasingly concerned about the impact of large-scale wedding events on local infrastructure and heritage sites. Florence, renowned for its Renaissance charm, and Venice, the floating city of romance, have become hotspots for destination weddings—often at the expense of residents and long-term sustainability.
What’s Changing?
The new rules include:
- Stricter permits: Couples must now obtain approval from local councils, with tighter criteria for ceremonies in historic squares or landmarks.
- Limited group sizes: To reduce overcrowding, weddings may face restrictions on guest numbers.
- Higher fees: Increased costs for commercial wedding photography and events in protected areas.
Local Reactions
While some businesses fear a drop in revenue, residents largely welcome the measures. "We love sharing our cities, but not at the cost of losing their soul," said one Venetian campaigner.
Tourism officials stress that Italy remains open to weddings—but with greater emphasis on sustainability and respect for local communities.
