Colossal Roman rip-off revealed
Italy: Tourists pay much higher prices than locals – despite police efforts
When in Rome, you will be ripped off – that is the message for visitors to the “eternal city” if a report in The Independent is to be believed.
The newspaper, quoting a report from its Italian counterpart Il Messagero, states that cheating tourists is commonplace, and that there are “different tier” pricing structures in operation at many of the city’s famous sites. At one, writes Peter Popham, a half-litre of Coke will cost a local four and a half euros, a tourist will pay eight euros for the same bottle.
And at a stall near the Colosseum things are worse, the article continues. Despite the close attention of the city’s tax police, for a miniature replica of the famous arena, locals are charged 10 euros, “other” Italians 45 euros and foreigners 105 euros.
The Independent suggests desperation is the reason for the overcharging – visitor numbers are “disastrously down”, especially those from the United States and Japan. News From Abroad, of course, is not for one minute suggesting that similar things do not go on in other parts of the world!
Have your say Cancel reply
Subscribe/Login to Travel Mole Newsletter
Travel Mole Newsletter is a subscriber only travel trade news publication. If you are receiving this message, simply enter your email address to sign in or register if you are not. In order to display the B2B travel content that meets your business needs, we need to know who are and what are your business needs. ITR is free to our subscribers.































Phocuswright reveals the world's largest travel markets in volume in 2025
Cyclone in Sri Lanka had limited effect on tourism in contrary to media reports
Higher departure tax and visa cost, e-arrival card: Japan unleashes the fiscal weapon against tourists
In Italy, the Meloni government congratulates itself for its tourism achievements
Singapore to forbid entry to undesirable travelers with new no-boarding directive