US tourists face $300 fine after they break little-known European holiday hotspot rule
Before heading out to explore Venice, spare a thought for what you’re wearing. The city’s published visitor rules prohibit walking around bare-chested or in swimwear, with a listed fine of €250. It’s an easy detail to overlook when packing for a summer holiday.
For American visitors Julia Latoff and her boyfriend, Mike Naccarella, that restriction reportedly came as a surprise during a morning run.
According to the supplied account, which attributes their comments to a Newsweek interview, the couple was visiting in July when Mike went running without a shirt. They were accustomed to seeing people exercise that way during hot weather in New York, where they lived.
Their surroundings soon suggested that something was wrong. Passers-by reacted disapprovingly, and one resident called out. After stopping to look into the issue, they discovered Venice’s clothing rule.
Rather than continue and risk a penalty, the couple stepped into an alley while arranging a replacement top. Mike’s sister helped by buying a souvenir T-shirt, allowing him to finish the outing covered up. The account does not report that either visitor was fined.
Their experience is a useful reminder that familiar holiday habits may run into local restrictions—even when travelers have no intention of offending.
Venice’s official guidance also lists several other behaviors that can lead to penalties:
Swimming or diving in canals: a €350 fine.
Feeding pigeons or seagulls: fines ranging from €25 to €500.
Eating or drinking while seated on the ground: fines of €100–€200.
Taking bicycles into the historic city: a €100 fine, including when pushing them. A limited exception allows you to carry bikes by hand between Piazzale Roma and Venezia Santa Lucia station.
For a summer visit, pack a lightweight top that’s comfortable enough for walking or running. Before setting out, check the city’s visitor guidance and plan suitable stops for refreshments.
A few minutes of preparation can help keep an unexpected fine from becoming your most memorable holiday souvenir.
