Italy is regarded as one of the world's top travel destinations, with millions visiting cities like Rome and Venice every year. According to the German broadcaster Deutsche Welle (DW), Venice alone received 5.5 million visitors in 2019. And the figures have continued to rise.
Tourist numbers in Italy are likely to surpass 68 million by the end of the year, according to market research firm Demoskopika.
To regulate the crowds, Italy is putting in place strict procedures.
Venice
This summer, Venice is combating the negative consequences of mass tourism by placing significant restrictions on visitors. For instance, they cannot roam around the city naked or swim in the canals. Sitting and lying down is prohibited on sidewalks, bridges, and the sides of fountains and steps. Those who break the regulations will face fines.
UNESCO, the United Nations' cultural body, recently stated that Venice should be included to a list of endangered world heritage sites.
According to a UNESCO report, the Italian city is at risk of "irreversible" harm from overtourism, overdevelopment, and increasing sea levels caused by climate change.