Venice, the iconic Italian city famed for its canals and historic charm, is grappling with a severe tourism downturn. Recent data reveals a staggering decline in hotel and Airbnb bookings, with up to 50% of rooms now standing empty.
The slump follows a wave of anti-tourism protests that have swept across Europe, with Venice at the epicentre. Locals have been vocal about the negative impacts of mass tourism, from overcrowding to rising living costs, prompting visitors to rethink their travel plans.
Empty Rooms and Frustrated Locals
Industry experts report that Venice's hospitality sector is facing its worst crisis in years. "We've never seen such a sharp drop in bookings," said one hotelier, who wished to remain anonymous. "Many small businesses are struggling to stay afloat."
Airbnb hosts are equally affected, with some slashing prices by as much as 30% to attract last-minute guests. Despite these efforts, the city's famed landmarks remain eerily quiet compared to previous peak seasons.
Anti-Tourism Sentiment Spreads
The protests in Venice are part of a broader European movement against overtourism. Cities like Barcelona and Amsterdam have also seen demonstrations, with residents demanding stricter regulations on short-term rentals and tourist numbers.
"We want our city back," said Marco Ferraro, a Venetian activist. "Tourism is important, but it shouldn't come at the expense of our quality of life."
Local authorities are now under pressure to balance economic needs with residents' concerns. Proposed measures include limiting cruise ship arrivals and capping the number of tourist apartments.
What's Next for Venice?
As the debate rages on, the future of Venice's tourism industry hangs in the balance. Will the city find a sustainable way forward, or will the exodus of visitors continue? For now, the canals may be quieter, but the voices of protest are louder than ever.
