Italy reinforces clothing rules for tourists and starts imposing fines

A Italy, a country rich in history and culture, is home to some of the world's most impressive attractions, including iconic churches and monuments.

However, as a visitor, it is important to be aware of the strict dress codes in place in many of these locations and even in Italian cities.

The recent application of strict dress codes It has caused controversy among tourists, with fines imposed in some locations.

In this article, we'll explore the dress code in churches and monuments, as well as swimwear restrictions in Italian cities.

The dress code for visiting churches in Italy

Many of the country's must-see attractions are religious sites, and it's important to follow dress codes to ensure you aren't turned away from entry.

In most churches, cathedrals and religious complexes, shoulders, belly and knees must be properly covered. It is common to find signs outside that indicate what is and is not allowed.

This means that clothing such as spaghetti straps, sleeveless blouses, crop tops, shorts or above-the-knee dresses are not permitted.

While some attractions may offer shawls or clothing to cover inappropriately dressed visitors, others may simply deny entry.

An example of this occurred in Rome, where an Australian tourist was prevented from entering the Vatican, in the Pantheon and in the Catacombs of Rome due to her “excessively” revealing dress.

(Image: Getty Images/ Reproduction)

At less touristy religious sites, such as parish churches, there may not be staff strictly enforcing dress codes. However, out of respect for local culture, it is advisable to follow general dress rules.

Swimwear banned in Italian cities

In addition to clothing rules at monuments and churches, some cities are also cracking down on the way tourists dress when strolling through urban areas.

In 2022, the mayor of Sorrento, Massimo Coppola, banned tourists from walking around the city center wearing swimwear.

In a post on Facebook, he explained that this ban was established to “protect and improve the quality of life and decorum in the city center and in public spaces.” The infraction now carries a fine of up to €500 (about US$2,600).

The island of Lipari, the largest of Sicily's Aeolian islands, implemented a similar rule in 2013, with fines also reaching up to €500 for anyone caught wearing bathing suits or flip-flops in areas public.

Venice, famous for its canals and tourism, has adhered to similar measures: wearing a swimsuit or going shirtless in the tourist area can result in a sizeable fine of up to €500.

Therefore, when visiting stunning Italy, it is essential to be aware of these dress codes and local regulations to avoid problems and ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience.