Italian Village Fines Tourists for Wearing Swimsuits in Town

The tiny Italian village of Varenna, perched near the famous Lake Como, has had enough. With just 650 residents, the town has introduced fines—up to 17,000 rubles (roughly $190)—for anyone caught strolling through historic streets or public squares in a swimsuit or swim trunks. The move is part of a growing backlash across Europe as locals push back against overtourism.

Varenna isn’t alone. Other Italian hotspots, including Sorrento and towns along the Amalfi Coast, already fine visitors for walking around shirtless or in beachwear. The message is clear: if you want to sunbathe, hit the beach. But if you’re visiting a church, a piazza, or a narrow cobblestone lane, cover up. The fines are meant to preserve local decorum and keep the charm of these centuries-old villages from being overrun by careless tourists.

The crackdown doesn’t stop at swimwear. In Portofino, another Italian gem, slow-moving tourists now face fines of around 25,000 rubles (about $275) for blocking traffic or lingering too long on crowded docks. As summer crowds swell, more European destinations are expected to follow suit. For travelers, the lesson is simple: respect local customs—or pay the price.