{"id":11144,"date":"2019-09-16T13:28:33","date_gmt":"2019-09-16T11:28:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogadmin.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/?p=11144"},"modified":"2026-01-29T14:04:53","modified_gmt":"2026-01-29T14:04:53","slug":"getting-in-trouble-italy","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/travel-tips\/getting-in-trouble-italy","title":{"rendered":"Can You Sit on the Spanish Steps? 11 Surprising Ways To Get in Trouble in Italy"},"content":{"rendered":"\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>Whether you know them by virtue of Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck in the classic film <em>Roman Holiday, <\/em>or have seen them yourself, the Spanish Steps are one of the most famous landmarks in Rome. But there is also rumour and intrigue and many a tourist now asks the question: Can you sit on the Spanish Steps?\u00a0<\/p>\r\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_80 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/travel-tips\/getting-in-trouble-italy\/#Can_you_sit_on_the_Spanish_Steps\" >Can you sit on the Spanish Steps?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/travel-tips\/getting-in-trouble-italy\/#Things_that_could_get_you_fined_in_Italy\" >Things that could get you fined in Italy<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/travel-tips\/getting-in-trouble-italy\/#1_Wearing_Loud_Shoes_in_Capri\" >1. Wearing Loud Shoes in Capri<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/travel-tips\/getting-in-trouble-italy\/#2_Frolicking_in_Fountains\" >2. Frolicking in Fountains\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/travel-tips\/getting-in-trouble-italy\/#3_Making_Sandcastles_in_Eraclea\" >3. Making Sandcastles in Eraclea\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/travel-tips\/getting-in-trouble-italy\/#4_Sand_%E2%80%98Theft_in_Sardinia\" >4. Sand \u2018Theft\u2019 in Sardinia<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/travel-tips\/getting-in-trouble-italy\/#5_Feeding_Pigeons_in_Venice\" >5. Feeding Pigeons in Venice<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/travel-tips\/getting-in-trouble-italy\/#6_Snacking_in_Florence\" >6. Snacking in Florence\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/travel-tips\/getting-in-trouble-italy\/#7_Steaming_up_the_Windows_in_Eboli\" >7. Steaming up the Windows in Eboli<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/travel-tips\/getting-in-trouble-italy\/#8_Going_Shirtless_in_Venice\" >8. Going Shirtless in Venice<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/travel-tips\/getting-in-trouble-italy\/#9_Using_a_Love-Lock\" >9. Using a Love-Lock<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/travel-tips\/getting-in-trouble-italy\/#10_Brewing_Coffee%E2%80%A6_Near_Landmarks\" >10. Brewing Coffee\u2026 Near Landmarks<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/travel-tips\/getting-in-trouble-italy\/#11_Picnicking_in_Venice\" >11. Picnicking in Venice<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/travel-tips\/getting-in-trouble-italy\/#Future-proofing\" >Future-proofing<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/travel-tips\/getting-in-trouble-italy\/#FAQs_%E2%80%93_Can_you_sit_on_the_Spanish_Steps_And_other_prohibited_activities\" >FAQs &#8211; Can you sit on the Spanish Steps? And other prohibited activities.<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/travel-tips\/getting-in-trouble-italy\/#How_can_I_make_sure_I_dont_accidentally_break_the_law_while_visiting_Italy\" >How can I make sure I don\u2019t accidentally break the law while visiting Italy?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/travel-tips\/getting-in-trouble-italy\/#What_general_etiquette_should_visitors_keep_in_mind_when_traveling_in_Italy\" >What general etiquette should visitors keep in mind when traveling in Italy?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/travel-tips\/getting-in-trouble-italy\/#Where_can_I_find_reliable_local_information_about_rules_and_restrictions\" >Where can I find reliable local information about rules and restrictions?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_you_sit_on_the_Spanish_Steps\"><\/span>Can you sit on the Spanish Steps?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p>To many this may seem a silly question, and one might think the answer would be &#8220;of course, why not?&#8221; However, <strong>as of 2019, a ban has been introduced to prevent tourists from sitting on the 135 steps, spanning from the Trinita de\u2019 Monti to the Piazza di Spagna.<\/strong> Indeed, a hefty fine of \u20ac250 awaits anyone spotted using the steps as a resting spot, enforced by whistle-wielding high-vis-wearing officials patrolling the area by day. Should anyone do damage or create stains on the staircase, the fine increases to \u20ac400.<\/p>\r\n<p>But why can\u00b4t you sit on the Spanish Steps? The ban came into force after the area underwent a major cleaning and restoration project in 2016. The \u20ac1.5 million initiative was funded by the jewelers Bulgari, in celebration of their 130th anniversary. Reactions to the ban have varied. Some have denounced it as an extreme measure. Others welcome it as necessary to prevent damage to one of the city\u2019s most iconic landmarks, which is frequently subjected to wear and tear. But for anyone unaware of the measures, it could prove an expensive mistake.<\/p>\r\n<div id=\"attachment_16699\" style=\"width: 1034px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-16699\" class=\"wp-image-16699 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/Spanish_Steps_Rome.jpg\" alt=\"Can you sit on the Spanish Steps? A photo showing the Spanish Steps with tourists around, but not sitting down on the actual steps. this is now banned in order to preserve them after a costly restoration\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-16699\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Can you sit on the Spanish Steps? Definitely not! If you do you could face a fine of up to 400\u20ac<\/p><\/div>\r\n\r\n<p><strong>This is just one in a number of surprising ways to get fined in Italy<\/strong>.\u00a0<strong>The Italian government has introduced a number of bans in order to protect important landmarks and historic monuments across the country; from jumping in fountains to snacking on streets &#8211; you&#8217;ll even find footwear restrictions in place in some areas!<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Things_that_could_get_you_fined_in_Italy\"><\/span>Things that could get you fined in Italy<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>So, along with sitting on the Spanish Steps, there are plenty of other ways to get in trouble with Italian law. Luckily, we\u2019ve compiled a handy guide to keep you on the straight and narrow.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Wearing_Loud_Shoes_in_Capri\"><\/span><strong>1. Wearing Loud Shoes in Capri<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p>The Island of Capri should be listed in the dictionary next to \u2018ideal holiday destinations\u2019. With sparkling blue seas and stunning coasts, it looks like a postcard come to life. It comes as no surprise that Capri gets its fair share of tourists: Everyone wants a slice of the calm, tranquil surroundings. However, this peaceful aura is something the locals want to preserve &#8211; at all costs.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\">\r\n<div id=\"attachment_5443\" style=\"width: 810px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-5443\" class=\"wp-image-5443 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/09\/Quiet-streets-Anacapri.jpg\" alt=\"A visitor strolls the quiet streets of Anacapri\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/09\/Quiet-streets-Anacapri.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/09\/Quiet-streets-Anacapri-768x576.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-5443\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">A visitor soaks in the sun as they stroll down the quiet streets of Anacapri<\/p><\/div>\r\n<\/figure>\r\n<p><strong>Therefore, noisy footwear &#8211; including squeaky sandals, flip flops and clogs &#8211; are banned on the island.<\/strong> And if you think that\u2019s not enforced, think again. In 2010 a couple was fined \u00a3100 (each) for wearing excessively noisy footwear. So forget about high-heels and tread softly as your stroll the quaint streets!\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Frolicking_in_Fountains\"><\/span><strong>2. Frolicking in Fountains\u00a0<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p>Italy\u2019s heat means fountains come as a welcome reprieve. Even the sound of rushing water can be enough to make things seem cooler. While most people would agree that jumping into the Trevi Fountain is ill-advised, Italian authorities are now clamping down on <em>any<\/em> kind of interactions with the country\u2019s iconic fountains.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\">\r\n<div id=\"attachment_11283\" style=\"width: 1163px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-11283\" class=\"wp-image-11283 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Piazza-Bernini-scaled-e1769691038342.jpg\" alt=\"Fontana del Tritone\" width=\"1153\" height=\"1191\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Piazza-Bernini-scaled-e1769691038342.jpg 1153w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Piazza-Bernini-scaled-e1769691038342-768x793.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Piazza-Bernini-scaled-e1769691038342-1024x1058.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1153px) 100vw, 1153px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-11283\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Fontana del Tritone<\/p><\/div>\r\n<\/figure>\r\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\r\n\r\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"align\":\"left\"} -->\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">Now so much as <strong>dipping your feet into the waters of a historic fountain could result in a \u20ac450 fine. <\/strong>\u00a0This actually happened to one elderly tourist discovered at the fountain of the Altare della Patria. Indeed, the zero-tolerance policy comes after a skinny-dipping incident in the same fountain which sent ripples of shock through the country and outraged local residents.<\/p>\r\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\r\n\r\n<!-- wp:paragraph --><!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\r\n\r\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\r\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Making_Sandcastles_in_Eraclea\"><\/span><strong>3. Making Sandcastles in Eraclea\u00a0<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\r\n\r\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\r\n<p>Whether you\u2019re a cathedral sculptor or can\u2019t manage much more than a misshapen tower, nothing says &#8216;summer&#8217; more than building sandcastles at the beach. But you\u2019ll have to think of alternative ideas if you\u2019re planning to go to Eraclea.<\/p>\r\n<p>Italian mayors have been given the power to enact a series of by-laws,<strong> in an effort to enhance \u2018public decorum\u2019,\u00a0 one of which prevents sandcastles being built in the small city near Venice. <\/strong>Deemed to be an obstruction and a hazard to public safety, it goes alongside collecting shells as souvenirs. Which brings us to\u2026<\/p>\r\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\r\n\r\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\r\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Sand_%E2%80%98Theft_in_Sardinia\"><\/span><strong>4. Sand \u2018Theft\u2019 in Sardinia<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\r\n\r\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":11205} -->\r\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-11205 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/image-6.png\" alt=\"Footprints Sardinia\" width=\"1050\" height=\"701\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/image-6.png 1050w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/image-6-768x513.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1050px) 100vw, 1050px\" \/>\r\n<figcaption>Leave the sand where you find it!<\/figcaption>\r\n<\/figure>\r\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\r\n\r\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\r\n<p>&#8220;Free&#8221;, yet meaningful, sand from a tropical destination seems like an ideal souvenir. But <a href=\"https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/monicasanders\/2024\/04\/05\/stealing-paradise-sand-mafias--beach-thefts-are-harming-ecosytems\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">sand theft<\/a> is increasing in popularity and threatening resorts and ecosystems. In some place it has created a deficit and<strong> in 2017, a ban was introduced making it illegal to take any sand from the Italian island of Sardinia.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p>But this hasn\u2019t deterred everyone: In August 2019 two French tourists found themselves facing up to six years in jail for allegedly attempting to take 40kg of sand home in their suitcases. Instead of risking a fine of \u20ac3,000, we can think of a few cheaper places to get some <a href=\"https:\/\/walksofitaly.com\/blog\/all-around-italy\/souvenirs-from-italy\">great Italian souvenirs.<\/a><\/p>\r\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\r\n\r\n<!-- wp:paragraph --><!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\r\n\r\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\r\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Feeding_Pigeons_in_Venice\"><\/span><strong>5. Feeding Pigeons in Venice<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\r\n\r\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\r\n<p>A part of the city\u2019s iconography, pigeons have taken up residency in Venice. A photo with one of the birds has become one of the quintessential markers of a trip to the Floating City. However, those images could soon be a thing of the past as <strong>a feeding ban has now been enacted in St. Mark\u2019s Square among other spots throughout the city.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<div id=\"attachment_15641\" style=\"width: 1034px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-15641\" class=\"wp-image-15641 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/11\/venice-3380829_1280.jpg\" alt=\"The belltower of St. Mark\u2019s Basilica towers high above the square\" width=\"1024\" height=\"685\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-15641\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">St. Marks Square is one of various locations in Venice where feeding the local pigeons is banned.<\/p><\/div>\r\n<p>It comes as an effort to counteract damage to monuments in addition to decreasing restoration and cleaning fees. Of all Italy\u2019s bans, this one has perhaps provoked the most public outrage &#8211; and not from visitors, but locals, many of whom are angered that the vendors selling corn and pigeon-feed from nearby stalls are now being left without a livelihood.<\/p>\r\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\r\n\r\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\r\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_Snacking_in_Florence\"><\/span><strong>6. Snacking in Florence\u00a0<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p>We all know that <a href=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/food-and-wine\/the-16-most-iconic-foods-to-eat-in-italy\">Italy is the home of fine food<\/a>. The mere mention of Italian cuisine is enough to conjure images of rich ravioli and stuffed tortellini, not to mention creamy lasagna. With so many dynamic flavors, it\u2019s a titanic effort not to indulge. But beware of munching<strong> in Florence, where a ban is in place to prevent snacking at certain times during the day.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\r\n\r\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":1077} -->\r\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\">\r\n<div id=\"attachment_1077\" style=\"width: 2058px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-1077\" class=\"wp-image-1077 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/07\/Ciampini-two-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"Get some of Italy's best gelato at this pretty piazza\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1360\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/07\/Ciampini-two-scaled.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/07\/Ciampini-two-768x510.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/07\/Ciampini-two-1536x1020.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-1077\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">At Ciampini, there&#8217;s not just great gelato, but a lovely view of the piazza!<\/p><\/div>\r\n<\/figure>\r\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\r\n<p>This is in effect on the four streets that run through the city\u2019s historic center &#8211; Via de\u2019Neri, Piazzale degli Uffizi, Piazza del Grano and Via della Ninna. In the afternoon from 12 &#8211; 3 pm and in the evening from 6 &#8211; 10pm, anyone caught eating could face a fine of up to \u20ac500.<\/p>\r\n<p>The solution? Breakfast later so you won\u2019t get hungry during the peak hours &#8211; or take an evening stroll with Walks of Italy and discover some <a href=\"https:\/\/walksofitaly.com\/florence-tours\/welcome-florence-walking-tour\/\">delicious gelato on our Welcome to Florence Tour<\/a>!\u00a0<\/p>\r\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\r\n\r\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\r\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_Steaming_up_the_Windows_in_Eboli\"><\/span><strong>7. Steaming up the Windows in Eboli<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\r\n\r\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\r\n<p>If Paris is the \u2018City of Love\u2019, Italy is the country of passion.<\/p>\r\n<p>Boasting Casanova and Romeo &amp; Juliet among its citizens, the country has plenty of romantic spots. But anyone hoping to recreate Jack and Rose\u2019s iconic scene in <em>Titanic <\/em>while in Eboli should think again.<\/p>\r\n<div id=\"attachment_10265\" style=\"width: 1010px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-10265\" class=\"wp-image-10265 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/Louvre_Cupid-and-Psyche-mid_SM-copy.jpg\" alt=\"Cupid\u2019s Kiss\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/Louvre_Cupid-and-Psyche-mid_SM-copy.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/Louvre_Cupid-and-Psyche-mid_SM-copy-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-10265\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Cupid\u00b4s Kiss, by Antonio Canova &#8211; one of the last Italian masters of marble carving.<\/p><\/div>\r\n<p><strong>The quaint town of Eboli in Southern Italy &#8211; renowned for its olive oils and buffalo mozzarella &#8211; introduced a ban on kissing in vehicles in 2011<\/strong>. A passionate embrace could now cost lovers \u20ac500, with police being stationed to patrol parks on the outskirts of town.<\/p>\r\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\r\n\r\n<!-- wp:paragraph --><!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\r\n\r\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\r\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_Going_Shirtless_in_Venice\"><\/span><strong>8. Going Shirtless in Venice<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p>Italy isn\u2019t exactly known for being one of the cooler holiday destinations. With temperatures regularly reaching up to 40\u00b0 in the summer months, it\u2019s understandable to want to cool off.<\/p>\r\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\r\n\r\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":11263,\"width\":677,\"height\":507} -->\r\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-11263 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Getting-in-trouble-in-Italy-Beach-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1536\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Getting-in-trouble-in-Italy-Beach-scaled.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Getting-in-trouble-in-Italy-Beach-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Getting-in-trouble-in-Italy-Beach-1536x1152.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\" \/>\r\n<figcaption>Beware of sizzling fines when leaving Italian beaches<\/figcaption>\r\n<\/figure>\r\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\r\n\r\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\r\n<p>But bear in mind<strong> fines are in place for anyone who chooses to go shirtless around Venice or Rome.<\/strong> Similarly, <strong>Venice has also banned wearing swimwear around the city center due to complaints of tourists wearing beachwear<\/strong>. Penalties for ignoring the ban can reach a scorching \u20ac3,000. Take it from us; better to spend the money on a <a href=\"https:\/\/walksofitaly.com\/blog\/how-to\/what-italians-wear-in-spring\">new wardrobe instead.<\/a><\/p>\r\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\r\n\r\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\r\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"9_Using_a_Love-Lock\"><\/span><strong>9. Using a Love-Lock<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\r\n\r\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\r\n<p>If you&#8217;ve passed over a bridge in any major city in the last few years, you\u2019ll probably know the practice of couples attaching \u2018love-locks\u2019 to famous monuments. A nice idea, in theory, but while the weight of one padlock itself is minimal, the weight of hundreds is considerable. The practice has placed an increasing strain on bridges and fences in cities around the world.<\/p>\r\n<div id=\"attachment_1401\" style=\"width: 1255px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-1401\" class=\"wp-image-1401 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/08\/Prairie_Locks-e1769693518212.jpg\" alt=\"Can you sit on the Spanish Steps? SHould you add a love lock to a bridge. A photo showing mutliple padlocks with love messages written on them that have been attached to a bridge or railing. Another activity banned in various tourism locations.\" width=\"1245\" height=\"956\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/08\/Prairie_Locks-e1769693518212.jpg 1245w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/08\/Prairie_Locks-e1769693518212-768x590.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/08\/Prairie_Locks-e1769693518212-1024x786.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1245px) 100vw, 1245px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-1401\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The Love-Lock phenomenon is now banned in various places in Italy and beyond! Photo credit: Erica Prairie<\/p><\/div>\r\n<p>In Italy, <strong>over 20,000 padlocks have been removed from the Ponte dell\u2019Accademia bridge<\/strong> which spans the Grand Canal. A campaign called \u2018Unlock Your Love\u2019 is leading the charge in advocating for the removal of the locks placed on landmarks, emphasizing that love doesn\u2019t need to be chained. Amen to that.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\r\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\r\n\r\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":11222,\"linkDestination\":\"custom\"} --><!-- \/wp:image -->\r\n\r\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\r\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"10_Brewing_Coffee%E2%80%A6_Near_Landmarks\"><\/span><strong>10. Brewing Coffee\u2026 Near Landmarks<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\r\n\r\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\r\n<p>No nation in the world takes <a href=\"https:\/\/walksofitaly.com\/blog\/how-to\/drink-coffee-in-italy\">coffee<\/a> as seriously as Italians do. So in some ways, it comes as no surprise that when German tourists decided to brew coffee near the Rialto Bridge in Venice they found themselves in hot water.<\/p>\r\n<div id=\"attachment_11760\" style=\"width: 2058px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-11760\" class=\"wp-image-11760 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Fresh-Coffee--scaled.jpg\" alt=\"Close up of an coffee machine in an italian cafe, making 2 expressos, as the water drips into the two white coffee cups\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1365\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Fresh-Coffee--scaled.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Fresh-Coffee--768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Fresh-Coffee--1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-11760\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Stick to letting the local baristas make your coffee, and enjoy the Italian cafe culture<\/p><\/div>\r\n<p><strong>Though it may not be an explicit ban, locals called the police<\/strong> for fear it would damage the landmark and the two backpackers were hit with <strong>a \u20ac950 fine and immediately expelled from the city<\/strong>.<\/p>\r\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\r\n\r\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\r\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"11_Picnicking_in_Venice\"><\/span><strong>11. Picnicking in Venice<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p>On a similar note, why you would want to make your own food with Italian cuisine on your doorstep is beyond us. However, picnics are often a common practice for those travelling on a budget, or those travelling with children who are picky eaters.<\/p>\r\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\r\n\r\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":11147,\"width\":653,\"height\":435} -->\r\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-11147 size-full aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/image-1.png\" alt=\"Outdoor picnic\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" \/>\r\n<figcaption>Choose picnicking spots with caution!<\/figcaption>\r\n<\/figure>\r\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\r\n\r\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\r\n<p>Nevertheless, <strong>as part of the \u2018Decency Laws\u2019, a ban has been placed on picnics in Venice in efforts to avoid litter and prevent stains to the city\u2019s monuments.<\/strong> The same is in place in certain spots across Florence and Rome, meaning picnicking near piazzas and historic landmarks is strictly off the table.<\/p>\r\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\r\n\r\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\r\n\r\n<!-- wp:heading -->\r\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Future-proofing\"><\/span>Future-proofing<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\r\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\r\n\r\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\r\n<p>Like it or loathe it, Italy is doing its best to future proof iconic monuments for the next generations to enjoy. Extreme? Perhaps. But with so many dazzling cities to explore and historic sights to see, we need to respect the local attractions in order to leave them as well preserved as possible for future generations. In addition, with travel being so popular, it is also important to respect the locals and have minimal impact on the people who actually live in these places we want to visit.\u00a0<\/p>\r\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQs_%E2%80%93_Can_you_sit_on_the_Spanish_Steps_And_other_prohibited_activities\"><\/span>FAQs &#8211; Can you sit on the Spanish Steps? And other prohibited activities.<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\r\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_can_I_make_sure_I_dont_accidentally_break_the_law_while_visiting_Italy\"><\/span>How can I make sure I don\u2019t accidentally break the law while visiting Italy?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p>The best way to stay on the right side of Italian law is to assume that historic sites are protected spaces, not casual hang-out spots. Avoid sitting, eating, swimming, climbing, or touching monuments unless it\u2019s clearly permitted. When in doubt, look for signage, follow what locals are doing, and pay attention to police or city wardens, especially in tourist hotspots. A little awareness goes a long way in avoiding hefty on-the-spot fines.<\/p>\r\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_general_etiquette_should_visitors_keep_in_mind_when_traveling_in_Italy\"><\/span>What general etiquette should visitors keep in mind when traveling in Italy?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p>Respect is key. Dress modestly around churches and historic centers, keep noise to a minimum in residential areas, and remember that many city centers are living neighborhoods, not theme parks. Avoid littering, eating on monuments, or treating landmarks as props. Italians are famously welcoming, but showing courtesy toward local customs, public spaces, and daily life will always earn you a warmer reception.<\/p>\r\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_can_I_find_reliable_local_information_about_rules_and_restrictions\"><\/span>Where can I find reliable local information about rules and restrictions?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p>Official city signage, local tourism offices, and museum websites are good starting points, but rules can change quickly and aren\u2019t always obvious. Guided tours with local experts are one of the easiest ways to stay informed, they\u2019ll flag what\u2019s allowed, what\u2019s frowned upon, and what could land you with a fine, all while explaining why the rules exist. It\u2019s local knowledge you won\u2019t find in a generic guidebook.<\/p>\r\n<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-22111\" src=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Devour_Venice_Sunset-Food-Tour_0103.jpg\" alt=\"Two women smiling at each other with others following behind them in an alley.\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Devour_Venice_Sunset-Food-Tour_0103.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Devour_Venice_Sunset-Food-Tour_0103-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/>\r\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\r\n\r\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\r\n<p><strong data-start=\"143\" data-end=\"284\">And remember, with <a href=\"http:\/\/walksofitaly.com\/blog\">Walks of Italy<\/a> you can always see the sights in the safe hands of an experienced, local guide, so you can\u2019t go wrong.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p>Even better, booking a guided tour early in your trip sets you up for success for the days that follow. Your guide won\u2019t just show you the highlights; they\u2019ll share practical advice, local etiquette, and insider tips that help you avoid common mistakes, steer clear of fines, and experience Italy more confidently.<\/p>\r\n<p><strong> Think of it as getting the local rulebook, plus expert recommendations, right at the start, so the rest of your visit is smoother, richer, and far more rewarding.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph --><!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":11261} -->\r\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><\/figure>\r\n<!-- \/wp:image -->","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Whether you know them by virtue of Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck in the classic film Roman Holiday, or have seen them yourself, the Spanish Steps are one of the most famous landmarks in Rome. But there is also rumour and intrigue and many a tourist now asks the question: Can you sit on the [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":61,"featured_media":8818,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[101,63],"ppma_author":[166],"class_list":["post-11144","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-travel-tips","tag-culture","tag-trip-planning"],"authors":[{"term_id":166,"user_id":61,"is_guest":0,"slug":"aoifewalks","display_name":"Aoife Bradshaw","avatar_url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/53df06eda4a4ad27ba2bcdeb3ba2913c?s=96&d=mm&r=g","user_url":"","last_name":"Bradshaw","first_name":"Aoife","job_title":"","description":"Aoife Bradshaw is a writer from Ireland with a serious case of wanderlust. Passionate about travel, food, and film, she writes about any and everything cultural. She's happiest when she\u2019s exploring new ideas in different cities, or delving into their history. When she\u2019s not writing she can usually be found on rambling walks, engrossed in a good book or trying her hand at a new recipe. Aoife also contributes to CultureTrip and Hotpress Magazine."}],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11144"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/61"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=11144"}],"version-history":[{"count":10,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11144\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":24772,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11144\/revisions\/24772"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/8818"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=11144"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=11144"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=11144"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.walksofitaly.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/ppma_author?post=11144"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}