Vacationers would do well to pack a t-shirt in their beach bag. Last town to toughen up: Varenna, one of the most popular villages on Lake Como. Since this summer, it has been forbidden to go around topless or in a swimsuit outside the beaches. Violators risk a fine of 200 euros (approximately 185 Swiss €).
“At the beach, you do what you want. But in shops, restaurants, churches or on the village square, you have to dress decently,” summarizes a trader to “TGCom24”. For Mayor Mauro Manzoni, this measure aims to preserve “the quality of life of residents” in the face of mass tourism.
Varenna is not an isolated case. In Italy, cities like Sorrento already sanction walkers in swimwear with fines of up to 500 euros.
France is also increasing its bans
In recent years, bans have increased in tourist destinations. In Menton, adults caught shirtless in town now risk a fine of 38 euros. “We are not going to sanction a child, but an adult does not have to walk around shirtless,” mayor Yves Juhel already justified in 2022 at the microphone of France Bleu Azur. In Narbonne, the bill rises to 150 euros for people walking around in a bikini, swimming trunks… or even barefoot.
What not to do…
1. On the beach La Pelosain Sardinia, it is forbidden to place your towel directly on the sand. A mat is obligatory under penalty of a fine of 100 euros.
2. In Tenerifebuilding sandcastles can cost up to 1500 euros on some beaches.
3. In Lepein Spain, urinating in the sea is punishable by a fine of up to 750 euros.
4. To Tossa de Mar (Spain): sex on the beach is prohibited.
5. In Torrox (Spain): reserving a pitch with a towel before arriving is prohibited. The cases are withdrawn by the authorities.
6. In Greece and in Türkiye: Collecting stones at ancient sites – or even on certain beaches – can lead to prosecution. Remember the “Varone affair”.
7. In New Zealand: Hikers must declare and carefully clean their shoes and equipment to protect ecosystems. An infraction can cost around 200 €.
