Popular travel destination doubles controversial day-tripper tax, sparks reactions on social media

As tourists continue to flock to Venice, Italy, officials are doubling its "access fee" in an attempt to continue curbing overtourism for day-trippers. 

Simone Venturini, the city's tourism councilor, recently spoke at the BIT tourism fair in Milan, sharing the program was successful, online news platform Metro reported. 

Starting April 18, visitors will officially pay the access fee of $5.17 if booked four days ahead, while arrivals booked last minute, within three days, doubles to $10.33 (10 euros), according to the city's site.

Exemptions apply to residents, property owners, students, workers, persons with disabilities and children under 14 years of age.

Officials will also add increased security screens at eight different locations, including main cruise ship docking areas.

When the tax was first announced last year, tourists and residents took to social media to share reactions.

Another X user said, "I don't blame them. It's much hard work to keep the city maintained. Everything is in water."

One user said, "That is not enough to reduce crowd. I think they set the price to be just right to make the most profit."

One said, "Greed.. hope tourism completely collapses there."

Fox News reached out to the city of Venice for comment.