Managing overtourism to preserve urban liveability: traditional solutions and new governance approaches

The article addresses the issue of overtourism from a legal and economic perspective. In particular, the phenomenon is analysed based on Weitzman’s economic theories, considering which more traditional regulatory approaches are criticized. The analysis relies mainly on Italian case studies, such as the restrictions and taxes imposed on access to certain cities, including Venice, and some seaside destinations, also comparing the different regulatory choices made by some of Italy's major cities and the outcome of the judgments involving them before the Administrative Courts. Ultimately, the hypothesis is that there is a need for a collaborative governance approach to tourism as a third way, in addition to the “Weitzman” approach, to be implemented through partnership models. Examples of this include Community Land Trusts, which are beginning to establish themselves in Italy as participatory foundations, and innovative solutions tested in public policy programs such as Smarter Italy. Finally, the issue of overtourism is addressed from a comparative perspective, also in relation to areas that have recently become tourist destinations, such as Africa, highlighting how similar solutions are emerging in this case too, starting with Community Land Trusts.