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Rome, Italy
4 laws, restrictions, and customs in Rome that travellers often break without knowing — and the fines or consequences that follow.
Rome's 2019 ordinance bans eating and drinking within 150 metres of the Trevi Fountain and prohibits sitting on the Spanish Steps. Undercover officers issue fines to tourists in these areas.
Entry to St Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and most Italian churches requires covered shoulders and knees for all visitors. Guards at the Vatican are strict and turn away inappropriately dressed visitors.
Swimming in or adding any substance to Rome's historic fountains is a criminal offence. Scratching or carving into historic monuments carries criminal penalties.
Venice has strict rules about where bicycles and vehicles can go. Some calles (streets) are pedestrian only. Gondola areas and bridges have pedestrian-priority rules. Illegally moored boats are removed.
