Italy's Lake Como Village Fines Shirtless Tourists Up to €200
Varenna introduces strict dress code and tour group limits to curb overtourism and protect residents' quality of life.
The picturesque fishing village of Varenna on the shores of Lake Como has introduced strict new rules for tourists, including fines of up to €200 for walking through the village shirtless or in swimwear, as authorities seek to curb unruly behaviour and protect the quality of life for local residents.
Under the new regulations, tourists are prohibited from appearing in public places in beach attire, including swimsuits and bare torsos. Such clothing is now permitted only at lakeside beaches or during boat trips on Lake Como. Violators face fines ranging from €50 to €200.
The move comes amid growing frustration among residents over the impact of mass tourism on the historic village, which has a permanent population of only about 650 people.
Varenna Mayor Mauro Manzoni acknowledged that the measures may appear strict but said they had become necessary.
"Varenna is a beautiful town, and we take pride in welcoming hundreds of thousands of tourists from around the world each year. But the quality of life for our residents should not become a victim of mass tourism," he said.
Residents say the narrow cobblestone streets and compact historic centre have become increasingly congested, with many complaining about visitors walking through the town in swimsuits or with bare chests.
A local shop owner welcomed the decision, saying beachwear is appropriate at the lake but not in public spaces.
"You can dress however you want at the beach. But if you are walking through the streets, entering shops, restaurants, churches or squares, you should dress appropriately," the shopkeeper said.
Besides the dress code, authorities have introduced additional restrictions to ease overcrowding. Organised tour groups are now limited to 25 people, tour guides have been banned from using portable loudspeakers, and groups are prohibited from blocking the village's narrow streets.
According to Mayor Manzoni, the measures are designed to restore peace and ensure better coexistence between residents and the hundreds of thousands of tourists who visit Varenna each year.
Varenna is the latest European tourist destination to introduce regulations aimed at managing overtourism while preserving its historic character. Authorities hope the new rules will help maintain the town's unique atmosphere without discouraging visitors from enjoying one of Italy's most scenic lakeside destinations.