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Italian towns expand tourist conduct rules as summer peak nears

Lake Como's €200 fines for bare chests signal broader shift toward stricter visitor codes across holiday destinations

Marco Di Sante312 wordsEdition41Friday, 10 July 2026 — Edition № 41

Varenna, a fishing village on Lake Como, has begun fining tourists up to €200 for bare chests or swimwear in public spaces, according to the Guardian. The move reflects mounting pressure from Italian holiday destinations struggling with the behaviour of summer visitors during peak season. Local authorities say the fines are intended to enforce decorum in village streets and preserve the character of the destination.

The Guardian reported that Varenna's authorities frame the measure as part of a broader campaign to discourage uncouth tourism. The Local Italy found that the approach has spread: a growing number of towns across Italy are now imposing similar rules on attire and behaviour this summer, signalling a coordinated effort by local authorities to reshape the visitor experience.

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