Venice Cracks Down on Unruly Tourism: Fines, Bans, and a Push for Respect
Venice, world-renowned for its canals, gondolas, and UNESCO World Heritage status, is increasingly confronting the darker side of mass tourism. While millions of travelers flock to the lagoon city each year, some choose to ignore local rules—forcing authorities to step up sanctions to protect both heritage and residents.
A British Couple Fined and Expelled
The latest case involves a British couple caught swimming in one of Venice’s canals—an act strictly forbidden. Their spontaneous dip to celebrate the end of their holiday ended abruptly when police issued each a €450 fine and ordered them to leave the city within 48 hours. Their early departure reflects a growing pattern: over the past months, several tourists have been penalized for reckless behavior ranging from swimming in canals to leaping from historic bridges.
Venice Is Not Disneyland
Local associations such as Venezia NON è Disneyland have been vocal in demanding tougher penalties. Their message is clear: Venice is not a theme park, and visitors should treat it as a living city rather than a playground. Complaints extend far beyond illegal swimming. Tourists have been seen sunbathing in swimsuits outside churches, paddling on canals, racing e-bikes and scooters through narrow alleys, scattering litter, feeding pigeons, and clogging pedestrian bridges.
Rising Enforcement and Expulsions
In response, Venice has tightened its enforcement. Authorities report issuing more than 1,000 expulsion orders since the beginning of 2025, targeting visitors who disregard regulations. Still, managing mass tourism remains a challenge. On peak days, the number of tourists can double the resident population, overwhelming infrastructure and straining the city’s delicate balance.
New Tourist Tax to Curb Overcrowding
To better manage the influx, Venice has introduced a €5 tourist tax for day-trippers, applied during the 54 busiest days of the year. Late reservations face double the fee, a strategy designed to discourage last-minute, high-impact visits. Officials argue that such measures are essential to safeguard the city while ensuring tourism continues to support the local economy.
A Call for Responsible Tourism
Venice’s message is unambiguous: visitors are welcome, but respect is non-negotiable. By embracing responsible travel—whether avoiding canal swims, respecting dress codes near monuments, or simply reducing noise and litter—tourists can help preserve the magic of Venice. The city’s leaders warn that without such cooperation, Venice risks turning into a caricature of itself rather than the cultural jewel the world admires.