To curb overtourism, Italy has introduced new regulations under which tourists will be fined for bad behaviour, with penalties reaching up to ₹50,000.
The city of Venice has taken the lead in implementing these fines, aimed at preserving urban cleanliness and promoting public safety. This initiative responds to increasing complaints from local residents about disruptive tourist conduct.
New Regulations In Venice
The Venice City Council Municipal Police has published a list of unacceptable behaviours on its official website. Tourists will face fines for various infractions, including:- Consuming food and drink while sitting on the ground near monuments: €100 to €200 (approximately ₹10,164 to ₹20,329)
- Bathing, diving, or swimming in canals: €350 (₹35,575)
- Littering or dumping trash in public areas: €350 (₹35,575)
- Walking around bare-chested or in swimwear: €250 (₹25,411)
The new regulations in Venice are not isolated. Other popular destinations in Europe, such as Portugal and Spain, have also introduced strict rules to manage tourist behaviour. For example, in Portugal's Albufeira, wearing swimwear off the beach can result in fines of up to €1,500 (₹1,52,109). Similarly, in Spain's Balearic Islands, public drinking fines can reach €3,000 (₹3,04,218).
While some may view these measures as detrimental to tourism in Italy, local authorities argue that they are necessary to maintain the integrity of the sites and protect the interests of residents. The Venice City Council states, "Current regulations forbid certain behaviours to preserve urban cleanliness and safety."
This crackdown on bad behaviour highlights the growing concern of overtourism in Italy. As tourist numbers increase, so do the challenges associated with managing their impact on local communities. The fines serve as a reminder for visitors to respect local customs and adhere to established guidelines while enjoying their stay.
As Italy continues to attract millions of tourists each year, the implementation of these fines reflects a commitment to balancing tourism with the needs of local residents. The initiative aims to foster responsible tourism and encourage visitors to engage positively with their surroundings.
