Attractions and Ticketing
Latest news on business rules and ticketing requirements for Attractions in Europe
On this page we feature a curated selection of European tourist attractions that have recently undergone changes or updates. These updates include modification to business rules, partnerships with B2B and B2C collaborators, or updates on accessibility, booking procedures, and other operational aspects.
Some of the current attractions include Louvre and the Colosseum.
Recent News
Operational Information
Where a country is listed below, we currently feature content about recent developments or practical problems at one or more of its attractions. These may range from changes in business rules or capacity management to refunds policy, booking horizons and ticketing requirements.
While best efforts have been made to verify the accuracy of the information below, it should be used as guidance only. If you have updated information please contact operations@etoa.org.
Weekly closing days of cultural sites in Paris can be found here. Many museums in Paris offer free entrance on the first Sunday of each month.
April 2025 | Louvre – access
In order to streamline access to the museum during the Easter Holidays, the entry for tour guides accompanying a small group of fewer than 7 people will be allowed through the 2 Richelieu entrances, which will be open from April 12 to May 12, and only during this period.
Access will only be allowed upon presentation of:
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For the guide, the French tour guide card issued under the conditions set by the regulations in accordance with article L221-1 of the tourism code;
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For their clients, a reservation made in advance and a valid entry ticket for each participant.
January 2025 | Louvre – access 2025
- Group visit slots for March and April are now open for booking. Individual tickets for this period will become available at a later date.
- A new ticketing system will be accessible starting Wednesday, January 15. It will be necessary to create a new account to book individual tickets for visits with fewer than 7 participants. The booking procedures remain unchanged for groups of 7 to 25 participants.
- The Louvre is working on establishing a schedule for the launch of the professional ticketing platform and the implementation of new group rates, which will be shared here as soon as available.
December 2024 | Louvre – group access 2025
On 19th December the Louvre advised that slots for March and April will open on January 7th. The introduction of new booking conditions for group access that were detailed in August (see below) has been postponed therefore current terms remain, including €70 fee for groups 7-25, with individual ticketing for groups of fewer than 7.
August 2024 | Louvre – group access 2025
The Louvre has published a newsletter detailing changes to group access from 2025. Of note: groups of 6 or fewer may use group entrance, and there will be a reservation fee of €20 payable. The fee for 7-25 will be €90. To see the newsletter, click here.
July 2024 | Louvre terms and conditions change
Following changes announced late June, buyers of group ticket who are not ‘key account holders’ have less flexibility. Only one modification can be done or refund requested, if done in advance according to procedure.
ETOA met with representatives of the museum on 15th July – and some joined as guests at an ETOA working group on 23rd July. Further to reduction of daily limit to 30,000, of which 6,000 are available to groups, supply has become more constrained. From the museum’s point of view, their priorities are to assure availability for all types of visitors, limit fraud, improve their channel management and utilisation. Changing dates and slots was proving too cumbersome, especially in high season.
The museum is reviewing its systems and policy: changes may be possible in 2025.
Latest reviewed 30 May 2025
Notre Dame – access
After the new booking system was opened for groups on 15 May, this is the latest update as of 30 May 2025:
Group visits from June 9 onward: all slots for June, July, August, and September are already fully booked.
Slots for October, November, and December will open in July. The opening date for these slots will be announced on the official cathedral website. The opening time will not be midnight. Last time, slots opened around 4–5 p.m., but there is no fixed time.
The cathedral team has reached out to approximately 20 agencies that had reserved an excessive number of time slots, to encourage more equitable access for all organizations wishing to visit. The objective is to ensure that the widest possible range of groups can benefit from the opportunity to tour the cathedral. Additionally, agencies found to be selling entry tickets are receiving formal notifications, as the cathedral remains committed to maintaining free access for all visitors.
Three weeks before the visit, time slots not used by the Casa association or the Accueil Jeunes program may be released back into circulation—not day by day, but in waves. So it’s possible to find available time slots with a few weeks’ notice.
Reminder of group size rules:
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1 to 5 clients with a guide = not considered a group. No group booking needed. Access is possible by queuing with the guide visibly showing their official guide card, or by booking individual tickets 2 days, 1 day, or up to 3 hours before the visit. Guides cannot use audiophone equipment for these small groups.
The queue without a reservation is usually not too long—about 20 minutes from the steps to the entrance.
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6 to 24 clients with a guide = considered a group and requires a group reservation.
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10 to 50 clients without a guide or chaperone: a specific slot can be booked. Visitors must disperse inside; no guiding or commentary is allowed.
The cathedral app offers free audio commentary zone by zone, in multiple languages (more languages coming soon).
Whisper Headsets
Guides can pick up the cathedral’s official audiophones from the north pavilion (under the parvis stands).
Pickup starts 40 minutes before the reserved time, allowing time for the group to see the facade and then enter the cathedral (max 1 hour inside, total 1.5 hours use of the equipment). Equipment must be returned to the same place.
It is possible to remove the audiophones inside at the end of the visit and let clients stay longer in the cathedral—guides can return the equipment alone within the time limit.
The whisper system is similar to that used at the Rodin Museum and the Louvre. Reminder: using the cathedral’s whispers is mandatory—additional electronic networks are not allowed as they could interfere with existing ones.
Booking Guidelines
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Changes to group size or date are not permitted.
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To avoid issues, the team recommends booking for a slightly larger group than expected.
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Cancellations are allowed up to a few days in advance. Please email: accueil@notredamedeparis.fr to cancel and request a refund.
Additional Information
Guides cannot use flags or other visible group markers inside the cathedral.
The Treasury cannot be visited by groups. The maximum capacity is 49 people. You can queue to enter as others exit, but no commentary is allowed inside.
The cathedral towers will reopen in late September (managed by CMN), but group visits will not be possible. The layout doesn’t allow for commentary stops.
There will be no combined ticket—tower and cathedral visits are separate and independently managed. Access will be via the South Tower.
Updated as of 15 May 2025
On 28 April 2025 ETOA met with representatives of Notre Dame Cathedral. Please find below a summary of the key information shared, along with a FAQ section to assist you in planning your visit or activities accordingly.
The Cathedral is first and foremost a place of worship, with three daily Masses and regular pilgrim activity. Cultural group visits are welcome but must follow specific guidelines to respect the religious nature of the site. Availability is limited, and visits are organized to ensure a respectful and smooth experience for all.
FAQ – Cultural Group Visits to the Cathedral
- When will the platform for group bookings open?
The booking platform has opened on May 15, 2025.
- Can group bookings be made by email?
No, bookings must be made exclusively through the official website.
- What are the requirements and procedures for using audio systems (whispers)?
- Whispers (audio headsets) are mandatory for all cultural groups accompanied by a guide.
- Headsets can be collected and returned at a kiosk outside the Cathedral.
- Groups will have 20 minutes outside for the guide’s explanation and 1 hour inside.
- Rental fees are: 35€ for groups of 7 to 15 people, 40€ for a group of 16 to 20 people, 45€ for a group of 21 to 25 people
- Payment is completed online at the time of booking.
- Cancellation terms (full or partial) will be provided during booking.
- Who can we contact with questions about our reservation?
All inquiries should be sent to:
📧 accueil@notredame.fr
There is no phone support for reservations.
- Do groups need a ticket to enter the Cathedral?
Each group will receive a QR code linked to their reservation. The guide’s name and group name will be needed at entry.
- Is a guide required for each group?
All groups must be accompanied by an officially certified guide.
In the future, there may be limited availability for unguided visits (up to 60 people, **4 slots per day), but this is not yet confirmed.
- What is the booking window for group visits?
Bookings can be made up to 3 months in advance of the desired visit date.
Additional Visit Guidelines
- Capacity: There are 15,000 individual tickets available per day, i.e. 450 every 15 minutes. You must enter at the exact time of your reservation.
- A maximum of 20 group slots per day are available.
- Groups are limited to 25 participants per slot.
- Group visits are not available Saturday afternoons, on any day during religious services and on the first Friday of the month between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. (veneration of the Holy Crown of Thorns). However, Thursday evening hours allow access from 7:45 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
- Only certified official guides may accompany groups inside the Cathedral.
- Mass is celebrated daily at 8:00 am, 12:00 pm, and 6:00 pm, and Vespers are sung at 5:30 pm
Groups of five or fewer do not not require a reservation.
Since re-opening, the cathedral has welcomed approximately 32,000 visitors per day, over 700,000 in the first month. Free tickets are available online three days in advance. Queues of up to two hours have been reported during school holidays.
Until June 9th 2025 guiding is not permitted
– Individuals and operators attempting to offer professional services and providers of fake tickets have already attracted police attention.
– Volunteers offer orientation information and leaflets inside the Cathedral.
– A multi-lingual app is available in English, French, Spanish, and simplified language; soon in Italian and Mandarin.
Official website available here.
See all the latest updates below.
On 19th November 2024 Parco Archeologico del Colosseo has published the notice on how to apply to register as a trade buyer for 2025. You can find all the details in the attachments uploaded on their official website.
Requests must be received no later than 12:00 (UTC+1) on 16 December 2024.
In summary:
Each year, PAC will publish a new public notice to allow interested operators to register in the PAC Operators List and indicate the quantity of tickets desired on an annual basis (specifically, from January 1 to December 31) This will be referred to as the “First Accreditation Session”).
All operators registered in the PAC Operators List, in order to maintain their registration in subsequent years, must:
(i) declare that they still meet all the requirements outlined in Article 2 of the PAC notice;
(ii) update the submitted documentation;
(iii) indicate the quantity of Tickets desired on an annual basis, specifying the type and time slot;
(iv) submit a signed copy of the new Contract related to the following year.
PAC will also open a second accreditation session (from June 1 to June 30) through the publication of a specific notice, aimed at registering operators in the PAC Operators List (hereinafter referred to as the “Second Accreditation Session”).
Registration in the PAC Operators List through the Second Accreditation Session will allow the operator to compete for the allocation of residual Tickets not utilized by other operators. Operators registered through the Second Accreditation Session will not be permitted to indicate the quantity of Tickets desired on an annual basis (specifically, for the period from January 1 to December 31).
The tools available to accredited Partners will include:
- B2B Call Center
- Platform (Reserved B2B Portal – available by the end of January 25)
- API (libraries for integration by Partners to automate processes – available in June 25)
Availability
- Every operator can request a maximum of 100.000 tickets per year.
- Tickets are distributed also according to most requested time slots. For example, as weekends are more in demand, less availability will be granted. Check Attachment B for full details.
FAQ can be found here
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On 2nd October 2024 ETOA representatives along with delegates from other travel associations met with representatives from Parco Archeologico del Colosseo (PAC) and MidaTicket, the distribution partner.
(Please note that ETOA will continue to work with PAC to get further details as soon as they become available).
- A new process for initial bulk booking requests will be implemented. Accredited operators will be able to request slots for all of 2025 by the end of the year. At this stage, only a booking fee per ticket will be charged, rather than the total ticket cost. Adjustments can be made at a later stage (please see below for information on the new B2B portal). Further details regarding ticket allocations, refunds, and other matters will be confirmed later.
- All partners will receive a monthly newsletter, beginning in October, containing detailed updates on booking processes as well as general news regarding products offered by Parco Archeologico
- There will a B2B portal containing all yearly allocation assigned by PAC based on the initial request and an algorithm that considers various factors (type of booking required – group or individuals – the requested date, etc). Operators can use the portal to complete purchases of allocated tickets, add participants names and print or save final tickets. A percentage of tickets (exact number TBD) can be increased directly from the portal. Payment can be made via credit card or bank transfer, or with a prepaid balance option from June 2025. The official ticket issued by PAC is the only one accepted and cannot be modified. The portal is expected to be operational by the end of November.
- Forum pass availability will be accessible through the portal enabling all partners to purchase tickets directly from the platform.
- Students groups – If operators are booking for a school group, whether European or international, they are required to complete a form confirming that they are making the booking on the school’s behalf. Only schools booking directly can use the B2C channel. Student groups are limited to a maximum of 30 people per group (in addition to a possible tour guide).
- Starting October 7th 2024 (for booking dates in November) it will also be possible to reserve free tickets (i.e. under 18s). These tickets will be verified at the entrance.
- It will be possible to change the guide name on the ticket by submitting a ‘delega’ on the day
- PAC continues to monitor irregular sales through other channels and will ban operators found to be involved in such activities
Summary of 2024 Meetings with Par.co:
Here you can find our latest understanding about the current situation.
In May 2024 a new provider MidaTicket started managing tickets for Parco Archeologico del Colosseo (part of the Ministry of Culture). Their contract is for 4 years. It was announced here: signed an agreement with a new ticketing system provider (CNS Servizi).
The main changes for operators are as follows:
- Operators are required to utilize the B2B channel, as the use of the B2C channel is not permitted.
- B2B availability is now c.35% for the Colosseum and 80% for the Arena24
- It is not possible to purchase group tickets on-site. There is a limit of 9 tickets allocated to direct individual visitors at any given time.
- A new booking process for operators has been implemented. There are two opportunities yearly to apply as a trade buyer
- Booking horizon: it should be confirmed that all B2B operators will have the right to book up to 1 year in advance, whereas B2C bookings will not
- Name on the tickets will remain compulsory:
- B2C – name change allowed until 7 days before the visit
- B2B – name change allowed until 3 days before the visit
- Capacity increased 200 people per hour (2000 per day). Therefore total capacity is 3200 people per hour
System operation
- Please refer to materials online to review the regolamento – they address most common questions they receive: https://colosseo.it/bandi_e_concorsi/avviso-pubblico-manifestazione-interesse-albo-ufficiale-operatori-turistici-abilitati-parco-colosseo/
Business rules
- PAC is checking market offers which include Colosseum tickets:
- Those selling only tickets and skip-the-line will be blocked
- 200 email addresses have already been blocked on the B2C channel. IP addresses and credit cards will be monitored and blocked if connected with inappropriate use.
General Colosseum products available (ticket types)
Group size and guides
- For Undergrounds, Arena, Elevator: 24+1 (24 pax + 1 guide)
- For all other products: 25+1 (25 pax + 1 guide)
- Tickets for guides are free and can be bought at the ticket office or online on the B2C channel. Tickets for guides are and excluded from the allocation. Most guides already have the pass to enter the Colosseum.
- Tour guides non-accredited with PAC are entitled to a free personalized ticket, which can only be booked online. This ticket is valid for three daily entries without time restrictions (in the form of three daily tickets)
ETOA Impact Survey in June 2024: Colosseum Ticketing showed significant cost increase and reputational risk. For full results of the survey, click here.
February 2024
Following consultation with members, ETOA developed a Memorandum aggregating member concerns as basis for continue dialogue, indicating the likely adverse impact at reducing quota available to the travel trade.
Access guaranteed to a maximum number of about 400 people at the same time. Entrance from the central staircase; exit at the gate on the side of Via dei Crociferi.
Visitation is regulated as follows:
– daily from 9.00 to 21.00 (last access 20.30);
– Mondays and Fridays from 11.00 to allow coin collection operations; every other Monday from 14.00 to 21.00 for emptying and cleaning the tank.
– Free access from 9 pm
Starting November 15, the Pompeii Archaeological Park will implement personalized tickets that include visitors’ names, along with a daily cap of 20,000 visitors organised into timed slots during the peak summer season.
This decision follows a record-breaking summer, where Pompeii saw more than 4 million visitors, including over 36,000 in a single day—one of the first Sundays with free admission.
In more detail, the new measures, effective from 15th November 2024, are as follows:
- A daily cap of 20,000 visitors
- Timed summer entry slots from April 1 to October 31, allowing:
- 15,000 admissions from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. (12,000 for “Pompei express” and 3,000 for “Pompei +”)
- 5,000 admissions from 12:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. (3,000 for “Pompei express” and 2,000 for “Pompei +”)
- Introduction of name-based tickets
Tickets will be available both online and on-site. Personalized tickets will be required for all types of admissions (Pompei express, Pompei +, Pompei 3days, and individual sites) and will be issued upon presentation of a valid ID, both online and at ticket counters.
To facilitate entry procedures at the site, all Tour Operators accredited by the Pompeii Archaeological Park will be allowed to exchange vouchers for a cumulative ticket that will display only the name of the Tour Operator and the guide.
Non-accredited Tour Operators must present a list of group members at the ticket office. The cumulative ticket will display the name of the Agency or Tour Operator and the accompanying guide.
For other types of groups, such as families, at least one member of the group must present identification at the ticket office to collect the cumulative ticket. The ticket will show the name of the group member and the accompanying guide.
On free-entry Sundays, 5,000 tickets will be reserved at the ticket office for accredited Tour Operators.
ETOA will keep monitoring the situation and provide further updates on this page when they become available.
Last Reviewed 21 May 2025
From April 15th 2025, and for a trial period, groups accompanied by a guide and ending their tour at the Sistine Chapel are once again be allowed to exit directly onto St. Peter’s Square. This solution may be implemented permanently pending further evaluation.
In front of the Bronze Door, groups will have two options: those with a booking for St. Peter’s Basilica will meet representatives from the Fabbrica di San Pietro on the right and enter the Basilica, while groups without a booking will proceed toward the Charlemagne arm of the portico to exit onto St. Peter’s Square. From there, they may join the regular queue to enter the Basilica.
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In November 2024, Fabbrica di San Pietro launched a new booking system, accessible at www.basilicasanpietro.va.
The system aims to improve the management of visitor flows within the Basilica, as well as those arriving from the exit of the Vatican Museums.
Starting March 1st, 2025, the exit door from the Vatican Museums, located near the Bronze Door, grants access to the Basilica or the Dome exclusively to visitors with a valid reservation made through the official website. This entrance is solely reserved to groups with their local guide.
Groups of up to 15 people, accompanied by a local guide, can also book the regular entrance from St. Peter’s Square in advance. Fees range from 5 to 7 Euros per person. Booking is not mandatory if entering from the main square.
Through this dedicated portal, operators can reserve access for groups transitioning from the Vatican Museums to the Basilica or groups entering from St Peter’s Square. This system is particularly necessary due to the high volume of B2B visitors accessing the Basilica through the Vatican Museums making it a priority for security and visitor management.
The available capacity is distributed across different channels. Tickets for pilgrims are allocated through a dedicated app. Tickets for individuals are distributed via the website channel. Additionally, a portion of the capacity is specifically reserved for Jubilee events to accommodate attendees for these special occasions.
Following the meeting between ETOA and St. Peter’s Basilica on 27 February 2025, this FAQ has been compiled to provide clarity on key discussions, address common inquiries, and ensure a better understanding of the topics covered.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
B2B Platform and Booking Management
Who can access the B2B booking system?
Tour Operators, Agencies, and Local Guides with valid VAT accreditation can apply for access via partner.basilicasanpietro.va.
Managing multiple bookings
Group bookings are available for a maximum of 14 participants plus 1 guide per booking. A group of up to 30 people may be split into multiple vouchers (each with a distinct code) but must remain under the same guide.
Ticket purchase limitations
There is an overall ticket allotment for B2B clients, although the remaining availability for each slot is not visible on the platform. Each operator will be assigned a digital wallet containing a balance that can be recharged after 30 days and upon reaching the minimum threshold of 10% of the initial value. Tickets may become available again due to cancellations of events or decreased demand through the Jubilee app. This will occur without prior notice, as it cannot be anticipated.
How far in advance can tickets be purchased?
Tickets are available up to 3 months in advance, with a 48-hour cutoff period (no next-day bookings).
What if a group or individual cannot attend?
The operator must notify the Basilica as soon as possible. In case of cancellation by the group or a participant, please note that there are no refunds.
What happens if a group wants to enter the Basilica without a reservation and using their own whispers?
They can still access the Basilica without a reservation and pay an on-site monitoring fee of €1.50 per person.
Is there flexibility in entry times?
A tolerance of 15 minutes before and 15 minutes after the booked time slot is allowed. For a booking with an entry time at 10:30, the flexibility window extends from 10:15 to 10:45.
Can tickets be purchased exclusively for minors?
No, minors must always be accompanied by an adult.
Can multiple email addresses receive the QR codes?
No, the Tour Operator is responsible for forwarding them to the guide. QR codes are sent 24-48 hours before entry, in order to allow for name changes up to 48 hours in advance.
Entry Flow and Security Checks
Where are the priority entry points?
A dedicated entrance will be available and clearly marked onsite. Access will be through Porta Angelica (after the military gazebo), following the colonnade in St. Peter’s Square. Specific details will be provided on the tickets, and the dedicated path will be clearly recognizable onsite.
Availability and Booking Modifications
What if no suitable time slots are available after the Vatican Museums visit?
The alternative will be to use the regular entrance from St. Peter’s Square.
Can booking name changes be made?
Yes, up to 48 hours before the visit (until midnight). Only names can be changed, not ticket types.
What if there is a last-minute guide change?
The new guide can present an official delegation letter on the day of the visit.
B2B Agreements and FIT
Does the Basilica offer B2B agreements for operators selling experiences to individual clients?
Currently, no agreements are in place for marketplace websites.
How does the management of tickets and the wallet work for operators who organize visits for both individuals and groups?
The minimum number for a booking is 2 people, so they can be handled on the portal. All bookings on the B2B channel need to include a guide.
Access Control Procedures
Where and when are visitor documents checked?
Checks take place at the Bronze Door entrance as well as at the Gazebo in St. Peter’s Square for the flow dedicated to reservations.
Will there be updates or new features based on operator feedback?
Possible future enhancements will be considered.
Last reviewed 30 May 2025
New Booking System and Major Investments in St Mark’s Basilica
As of 27 May 2025, St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice has introduced a new booking policy requiring all visitors—both individuals and tour operators—to purchase tickets exclusively online. This policy is part of a six-month trial period aimed at streamlining visitor access and enhancing the experience. To access the new booking system operators are required to submit an official declaration of interest. Learn more here.
This is part of a broader strategy to improve visitor experience, preserve heritage, and optimize access, and it has been launched alongside major structural and logistical upgrades to the Basilica and surrounding facilities.
Booking Platform
The new booking website will be launched soon, enabling reservations for the period July 1st – December 31st. Click here to submit the required documents and gain access to the new booking system.
Expressions of interest must be submitted to Procuratoria no later than 3:00 PM (Italian time) on June 3, 2025.
The email subject line must include: “tour operator name – accreditation request – size category for which accreditation is requested” (Small 25 – Medium 50 – Large 75).
For subsequent periods, it will be possible to request credential renewal to maintain accreditation, and every six months, new operators may apply to be accredited. See below for a full breakdown.
- New Daily Booking System (Effective July 1 2025)
- Increased availability: +850 tickets per day (with a new total of 5,000 tickets per day) +60 tickets per slot
- Slot Frequency – Slots every half hour (14 total daily slots).
- Ticket Price Increase – The ticket will go up to 12 Euros for Operators.
- Ticket Release – Tickets will be released 6 months in advance and up until 24 hours before the tour date.
- After the trial period, the next semester will open for bookings 45 days in advance
new Rates and Discounts : Venice Basilica New Rates from July 2025
| Ticket Type | Price for Private Individuals | Price for Tour Operators / Guides |
|---|---|---|
| Basilica | €10.00 | €12.00 |
| Basilica and Pala d’Oro | €20.00 | €24.00 |
| Basilica and Museum | €20.00 | €24.00 |
| Museum / Loggia dei Cavalli / Terrace (1) | €14.00 | €17.00 |
| Full Basilica (Basilica, Pala d’Oro, Museum / Loggia dei Cavalli / Terrace) | €30.00 | €36.00 |
| Campanile di San Marco | €15.00 | €18.00 |
| Basilica and Baptistery (guide required, max 25 people, 30 min) | Not available individually | €20.00 |
| Evening visits to illuminated Basilica and Baptistery (2) | €1,500 (max 30 people) | €1,500 (max 30 people) |
| €2,500 (31 to 50 people) | €2,500 (31 to 50 people) | |
| €5,000 (51 to 100 people) | €5,000 (51 to 100 people) |
Notes:
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The Museum / Loggia dei Cavalli / Terrace ticket can be purchased alone only when the Basilica is closed for religious functions and the Museum is open.
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Evening visits start at 7:30 or 8:00 PM and are divided into one-hour time slots.
Additionally, each Basilica access ticket includes entry to:
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Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta Torcello
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Sacristy of Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute
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Pinacoteca Manfrediniana of the Diocesan Museum (Palazzo del Seminario)
The ticket will also help fund free access to 40 churches, most currently ticketed. A new foundation, launching this summer, will manage them all and ensure daily opening hours from 10 AM to 5 PM.
Allocation of Tickets
- 43% reserved for tour operators
- The remaining quota will be distributed among:
- Licensed tourist guides
- Families and individual visitors
- Parish and school groups
Operator Registration and Categories
To access the new online booking system, Operators should submit an official Declaration of Interest. Based on self-assessment, they will be classified into:
- Small operators: entitled to an average of 25 tickets/day
- Medium operators: up to 50 tickets/day
- Large operators: up to 75 tickets/day
These are average quotas, not mandatory minimums.
Operational Details
- Capacity: The Basilica will now be able to welcome up to 5,200 visitors per day (up from the current 4,200), with an estimated simultaneous occupancy of between 500 and 600 people.
- Group Size Increase – Maximum group size increases from 20 to 25 people.
- A free ticket will be issued with each purchase for the group leader, who must be present during the visit.
- Only guided groups will be allowed access to restricted spaces like the Baptistery
- Other areas with limited capacity like the Pala d’Oro will have a contingency entrance
- Online-only sales: Tickets will be available exclusively online.
- Tickets will be nominal (assigned to named individuals).
- Operators may purchase tickets up to 24 hours before entry. Any unused tickets will be reallocated to the individual booking pool.
Evening Visits – Exclusive Access
- The Basilica will be reserved for only one group at a time during evening openings.
- Updated pricing for private evening visits (max. 50 participants):
- Up to 30 people: €1,500
- Up to 50 people: €2,500
- Exclusive large events (100 guests): up to €5,000
- Fewer time slots available to preserve the sacred and cultural space.
Trial Period and Monitoring
- A 6-month trial phase will be implemented.
- At the end of the year, the performance of all registered operators will be reviewed.
- Operators whose usage does not match their declared size may be reclassified accordingly.
- New Ticket – More Value
While the new ticket will come with a slightly increased cost, it will include access to 40 additional churches across the city. This is part of a partnership with the Diocese of Venice, aimed at decentralizing tourism and promoting lesser-known sites.
To manage these expanded experiences, dozens of students will be employed to support visitor operations in these newly opened churches.
3. Strategic Investments in the Basilica and Visitor Facilities
- Lighting Renovation Project
The entire lighting system of the Basilica and Bell Tower will be redesigned.
Edison will present the new lighting concept within the next 3 months and the full renovation is expected to be completed within 18 months after approval.
- Restoration and Revamp of Ateneo San Basso
The external facade of the Ateneo San Basso is currently under renovation — the first step in a larger transformation plan.
The building will host the new info point and shop, replacing temporary structures currently inside the Basilica’s narthex. By 2026, the Ateneo will be open to visitors and the narthex will be fully restored and free from any non-original structures.
- A Social and Artistic Collaboration
The project will involve Venetian prison inmates and local youth to design and produce souvenirs made in Venice. These items will replace the existing outdoor stalls, combining social impact with cultural value.
- Support and Funding
The ticket price increase is designed to support the continued sustainability of these vital projects, including:
- Heritage conservation
- Social initiatives
- Youth employment
- Infrastructure modernization
Spain
Latest Review 27 January 2025
Following a meeting in December 2024 between ETOA and Sagrada Familia, see below the most recent info about the site.
Sagrada Familia – Business Rules and Visitor Guidelines
Overview:
- The Sagrada Familia is a privately run institution and one of Spain’s most visited landmarks. In 2024, visitor numbers surpassed the 4.5 million recorded in 2019.
- With a maximum capacity of 1,500 visitors per hour, demand often exceeds supply.
- Around 80% of tickets are allocated to private visitors, leaving 20–25% for groups, depending on the season.
Future Plans for 2025:
The administration plans to collect additional data to improve efficiency.
Group Visit Guidelines
- Group Size and Rules:
- Groups must consist of 10–30 people.
- Groups larger than 30 will have to split up.
- Group tickets cannot be used for individual visitors.
- Individual tickets cannot be used for groups
- Guide Requirements:
- Groups must be accompanied by an accredited guide to enter the site.
- Booking Procedures:
- Tour operators can book tickets up to three months in advance, paying 50% upfront and the remaining balance 7 days prior to the visit.
Ticket Booking Channels
- Main Channel: The portal CLORIAN is used for group bookings.
- Operators must contact Sagrada Familia to request a login and access availability.
- Availability opens three months in advance, and operators are informed beforehand.
- If at the time of booking there are not available tickets on the portal, please contact operacions.gestioentrades@ext.sagradafamilia.org to inquire about ticket availability. For group guided tour reservations with an internal guide at Sagrada Familia, please use the email address reserves@ext.sagradafamilia.org.
Operational Challenges and Recommendations
Challenges:
- High demand, particularly during peak months from March to October, Holy Week
Recommendations:
- Schedule group visits during off-peak hours (outside 9–12 AM) or opt for late afternoon slots for a smoother experience.
- Tuesdays and Wednesdays are usually less crowded.
- Book tickets well in advance for high-demand periods.
- Visit during quieter months (November–February, excluding Christmas).
Netherlands
Last Reviewed 24 April 2025
The Municipality of Zaanstad plans to introduce a €17.50 entry fee for tourists visiting Zaanse Schans starting on 1st April 2026, aiming to fund investments in the area. The initiative seeks to address concerns related to safety, overdue maintenance, and the quality of life for local residents.
The municipal executive has submitted a set of proposals to the city council, which are now up for consideration. Under the plan, residents of Zaanstad, Wormerland, and certain designated groups will be exempt from the fee. Public access will also be restructured, with roads and paths redirected to control visitor flow.
A vote on the main proposals is expected at the end of May. If approved, the municipal executive will move forward with developing the plans required for implementation.
The site relies on travel trade business, so understanding the impact of a potential charge is key to inform proper process and decision-making. Please complete this short survey to help us gather insights.
Last Reviewed 15 May 2025
The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam welcomes over 1.8 million visitors annually. To help ensure a high-quality experience for all guests, the Museum offers guided tours led by in-house guides and a select number of external partners.
In response to growing demand and to better manage group visits, the Museum has introduced a registration system for guest tour guides starting in January 2025. This system includes a daily limit on the number of guided tours.
The goal of this new approach is to maintain a comfortable and enjoyable environment throughout the Museum. Factors such as group size and the number of guides present at any one time influence the flow of visitors. By managing these elements, the Museum can more effectively prevent congestion and safeguard the overall visitor experience.
Through the registration system, the Museum can also better ensure safety, consistency, and the quality of information shared during tours. Guest guides who register will receive the appropriate guidelines to align with the Museum’s standards.
Registration as a Guest Tour Guide
Before booking a group visit, guest tour guides are kindly asked to register via the following link:
Guest Tour Guide Registration – Van Gogh Museum
After submitting the form, an automatic confirmation will be sent by email. Within five working days, a personal guide badge will be available for collection at the Museum’s entrance. It is recommended to collect the badge on the next visit as a registered guest guide.
Booking a Group Visit with a Guest Guide
Bookings for guided group visits can be made through the Museum’s official website.
For visits from 10 June 2025 onwards:
- Groups of up to 6 people (5 visitors + 1 guide): Book here
- Groups of up to 16 people (15 visitors + 1 guide): Book here
These links also provide details on pricing and availability. Please note that it is not possible to alter time slots, dates, or group sizes due to capacity constraints. If your preferred time is fully booked, please select an alternative date or slot.
Availability
A maximum number of bookings per (booking) party applies for all types of group visit. A party is permitted to book a maximum of 20% of the total number of start times that are available per week for group visits. In addition, it is permitted to book a maximum of 1 group visit per day and a maximum of 1 group visit per weekend. This is thus depending on how many timeslots are offered on a daily/ weekly basis.
Booking Horizon
Ticket sales are currently planned to be available up to six months in advance. However, this timeline may be adjusted based on internal decisions regarding pricing and program content.
Additional Information
Group visits starting from 7 people up to a maximum of 50 people – with or without audioguide – can book a timeslot through the group booking page. This process hasn’t changed recently.
For further details on the guest tour guide policy, including guidelines and conditions associated with registration, please refer to the Van Gogh Museum’s website.
Navigating Challenges and Opportunities in European Cultural Tourism: ETOA's Strategic Focus
Access to attractions is fundamental to ETOA’s operators members, whether they produce multi-day tours often sold over a year in advance, or sell experiences bought via platforms when visitors are in destination. Cultural tourism is central to Europe’s economic success, providing necessary revenue to safeguard assets which attract visitors from around the world. Its long-term success is a strategic priority.
The online marketplace has transformed the business environment, but its impact is uneven. Some major attraction still lack APIs that allow live inventory to be shared with authorised B2B clients. Business rules vary, especially for groups, and there is insufficient transparency. The rise of nominative ticketing has added unwelcome complexity, mixing uneasily with data protection rules and platform regulation.
First-time visitors will often wish to visit the most famous attractions, but the organised travel industry is well-placed to encourage repeat visitors to explore other places, which aligns well with destination sustainability strategies.
ETOA’s priorities are therefore to encourage good practice in distribution and capacity optimisation, and also to enable and support product development and diversification.
This content is exclusive to ETOA members
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The ETOA membership opens invaluable networking opportunities to your business, allows you to gain access to critical insights and information and contributes to the campaign for a better regulatory environment in Europe.
- Connect with the global travel trade
- Stay informed of insights, regulations and changes
- Be supported in shaping the tourism landscape