The Foreign Office is urging UK tourists heading to Italy to be aware of four specific laws that could result in fines. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has updated its travel advice for Italy in the European Union ahead of the summer holidays.
Key Safety Tips from the FCDO
The FCDO advises UK tourists to maintain sight of their belongings at all times, leave spare cash and valuables in a secure location such as a hotel safe, remain vigilant of thieves using distraction techniques, and avoid carrying all valuables together in pockets or handbags.
Specific Local Laws in Italian Towns and Cities
The FCDO warns that some Italian towns and cities have specific laws, and tourists could be fined for breaking them. Examples include laws against:
- Dropping litter
- Sitting on monument steps
- Eating and drinking next to main churches, historic monuments, and public buildings
- Defacing historic monuments
Additional Offenses and Fines
The FCDO states: “It’s also an offence to enter or bathe in public fountains in many towns and cities, including Florence and Rome, or swim in the canals in Venice. You could face a fine of up to 10,000 euros for urinating in a public place.”
On the island of Capri, tourists must not use or bring disposable plastic objects such as bags, cutlery, plates, cups, food packaging, trays, and straws. Violators could face fines up to 500 euros.
Illegal Trading and Environmental Rules
The FCDO adds that illegal traders operate on the streets of all major Italian cities, and it is illegal to buy items from unlicensed street traders. Offenders may be stopped by local police and fined.
It is also illegal to remove sand, shells, or pebbles from coastal areas in Italy, with large fines for doing so. Similarly, collecting various species of flowers, plants, and herbs from mountain and wooded areas is prohibited. Tourists are advised to check with regional authorities for more information.
