Passengers arriving at the Santa Lucia train station in Venice were informed of a new five-euro fee to enter the historic center. Those without a QR code indicating registration were directed to a booth to pay the fee, which applies to day visitors between 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The initiative aims to address overtourism, but has faced criticism from locals and protesters who view it as a step towards turning Venice into a theme park. Critics argue that the fee fails to address the city's real problems, such as a decline in resident population and encroachment of the tourist industry. The city hopes to manage day visitors and collect data through the fee to better control the phenomenon. The fee is set to increase in the future, sparking concerns about the city's direction and sustainability.