Italy’s historic city of Florence is introducing measures to tackle overtourism following complaints that the rising number of visitors has become unsustainable. Among the steps taken are bans on key lockboxes used by short-term rental hosts and the use of loudspeakers by tour guides.
Renowned for its breathtaking Renaissance art and architecture, Florence in Tuscany has long been a favorite destination for travelers. However, like many other places in Italy and beyond, the city has seen a surge in tourist numbers in recent years, driving up housing costs.
This week, as Florence prepares to host tourism ministers from the G7, Mayor Sarah Funaro unveiled a 10-point plan to address the issue, which city officials have approved.
Key Lockboxes and Guided Tours Targeted
The plan includes restrictions on code-locked key boxes used by short-term rental hosts to simplify guest check-ins. These boxes will be limited in Florence’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed center, which is famed for masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, Giotto, and Brunelleschi. Recently, local residents have expressed their frustration by marking the boxes with red Xs.
Additional measures will impose limits on the use of golf carts and similar vehicles for tours, particularly in areas where vehicle access is restricted. The decree also bans the use of amplifiers and loudspeakers by tour guides.
Rising Concerns Over Tourist Behavior
Florence hosted 7.8 million tourists in the first nine months of 2024. The city stated that these measures aim to create a more sustainable environment for both visitors and residents.
“The city can no longer withstand the pressure of activities and vehicles dedicated exclusively to tourism, concentrated in just five square kilometers,” the municipality announced.
Recent incidents of inappropriate tourist behavior have also raised concerns, contributing to the urgency of these regulations.
Other Italian Cities Join the Effort
Florence is not the first Italian city to take action against overtourism.
– Pompeii recently announced a cap of 20,000 daily visitors and the introduction of personalized tickets.
– Venice plans to introduce entry fees during peak tourist seasons starting in 2025.
– Rome has restricted access to the Trevi Fountain, with further limitations expected once restoration work is completed.
These collective efforts signal a growing recognition of the need for sustainable tourism management across Italy.
