Fines in Italy for Tourists of Up to 500 Euros: What Should You Avoid Doing on Vacation?

There are little-known rules in Italy, and tourists face fines of up to 500 euros for violating them. Find out what’s prohibited on the island of Capri, in Venice, and other cities — and what you definitely shouldn’t do while on vacation in Italy

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A vacation in Italy is a dream for millions. But preparing for the trip involves more than just packing your bags and buying tickets. The country has little-known local rules, and violating them can result in a fine of up to 500 euros. The Express warns about this, citing recommendations from the UK Foreign Office. Several cities and resorts that are particularly popular with tourists have their own additional restrictions. It’s important to be aware of them before you leave.

Read also: Unusual traffic rules in Europe that most drivers don’t know about.

Food and drinks near landmarks: where and for what are you fined?

Having a snack with a view of the Colosseum or sitting down with a coffee on the steps of a cathedral—a common tourist habit that can cost you money in Italy. In several cities across the country, eating and drinking near historical landmarks, public buildings, and major churches is prohibited. The exact amount of the fine depends on the city, but the consequences are very real.

Swimming in fountains and canals: prohibited everywhere

Taking a photo in a fountain is a classic tourist activity. But in Italy, this is an offense without exception—in any city. The same applies to attempts to cool off in Venice’s canals: a hefty fine is imposed for this.

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Capri Island: a ban on single-use plastic and a 500-euro fine

One of the strictest rules is on the island of Capri. To preserve the local landscape and environment, single-use plastic is completely banned here. To enter the island, you cannot bring any single-use bags, bottles, plates, or food packaging with you. If a violation is detected, the fine will be 500 euros.

Buying goods from illegal vendors: a risk for the buyer, not just the seller

In Italy’s major tourist cities, illegal street vendors are a common sight. But few tourists realize that buying anything from them is illegal. And the seller isn’t the only one held responsible. If you’re stopped by local police during or after such a purchase, you could also face a fine.

What You Can’t Take From Nature: Plants, Shells, Pebbles, and Sand

Hikers and nature lovers should be aware that picking plants, grasses, and flowers is prohibited in many parts of Italy and can result in a fine. A similar rule applies on beaches: taking shells, pebbles, and sand from coastal areas is illegal. Even if it seems like a minor offense, the police take such violations seriously.

If you plan to drive to Italy in your own car, don’t forget to obtain a Green Card: you won’t be able to cross the border by car without it. You can do this online through Visit Ukraine.

We remind you! The newly elected mayor of Venice, Simone Venturini, plans to raise the tourist tax for day-trippers to 50 euros on peak days. Read about when the new rules will take effect, who is exempt from the tax, and how it works now.

Photo: aimenda123 / Freepik

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