Overtourism It has become a worldwide problem, particularly in Europe. ItalyMillions are checking off their bucket list this summer. It means that the romantic streets of Venice have become overcrowded. Positano’s picturesque coastline is bursting at the seams. And the amazing architecture of Rome has been obscured by the crowds of people on each street corner.
The accessibility of travel is great, but with so many people in new places—often under the veil of anonymity and the lowered inhibitions that come with being on vacation—the already crowded nature of top tourist spots is worsened by poorly behaved visitors. In recent years, headlines have featured loud beachgoers and Venice canal swimmers as well as vandalism of art and monuments.
Many major Italian destinations have introduced a series fines to punish tourists who ignore local laws.
Venice has for example published a “list of new rules”unacceptable behavior” on its official website in an effort to curb some of these crimes.
The website states that “current regulations enforced by Venice City Council Municipal Police prohibit certain behaviors, to preserve urban cleanliness, landscape and safety, as well as for reasons of public hygiene and hygiene.” “The violation of such regulations involves the application of administrative fines—from €25 to €500.” (At the time of publication, €25 to €500 is roughly $30 to $584.)
What are the possible fines in Venice for? Here are some of the new rules.
- It is prohibited to eat or drink food or drink on the ground or on monuments or foundations. The earliest known use of the word “canal” was in the early 19th century. (Wellheads) and High-Water Walkways
Fine: €100 €200 (between $117 and $234). - The canals are not suitable for swimming, diving or bathing.
Fine: €350 ($410) - Littering and dumping of trash in public places is prohibited.
You can find out more about it here: €350 ($410) - Avoid walking around in your swimwear or bare chested.
Fine: €250 ($292)
A fine will be issued if you bike, camp or feed seagulls in the city limits.
According to Tour and Travel WorldVenice isn’t Italy’s only city that punishes bad behavior. Just like in Venice, you can be fined up to €500 ($584) for wearing swimwear outside of designated beach areas in Tuscany, Veneto, and Campania. In Cinque Terre, wearing flip-flops or other improper footwear on certain hikes can result in a fine of up to €2,500 ($2,920).
Many cities and regions enforce these fines Primarily during the most popular travel months. In Portofino, for instance, eating on the ground can incur a €500 fine, but only through Sept. 30, 2025.
These fines are part and parcel of a larger trend in Europe. beyondIn an attempt to reduce the impact of high visitor numbers on local infrastructure, local governments have implemented fees, taxes, fines and other measures to control tourism.
Be sure to check out the tourist regulations when planning your trip. Keep an eye out for signs that state what you are allowed to do. Just to be safe, keep a swim coverup handy and avoid eating your meals on the ground—both good rules of thumb regardless of the destination.
