- Venetian authorities are considering raising prices for "secret" cheap gondola rides, known as traghetti (ferries), after social media influencers promoted them to tourists.
- These ferries, costing €2 for tourists compared to €80 for standard gondola rides, have seen queues lengthen significantly at four Grand Canal crossings.
- Local residents are complaining that the increased tourist usage of these essential services is causing them inconvenience and disruption.
- Simone Venturini, Venice's councillor for tourism, stated that any price increase for tourists would be justified and the funds could be used to open new ferry crossings.
- This issue highlights Venice's ongoing struggle with overtourism, following previous measures like the introduction of a day-tripper admission fee and proposals for even higher charges.
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