Holidaymakers are being warned of a little-known law which could leave them out of pocket if broken. Florence in Italy is visited by more than 15 million people every year.
But many tourists who visit the picturesque hotspot may be unaware of one rule they must stick to. It can be easy to break and comes at a huge cost.
According to one travel expert, breaking the rule could set you back up to €500 (£422). Jessica Bollinger, travel expert at Kilroy, said: “Walking around the city all day and exploring the many attractions is hungry work.
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“But unsuspecting tourists must be aware there could be dire consequences for taking a break to pause on the streets for a pick-me-up snack. There is a little-known law that bans anyone from stopping to eat on the pavements, in shop doors or outside houses in the busiest areas of the city during peak hours.”
The city’s government introduced the law in 2018, Mirror reports. But many tourists still do not know they could be fined if they break it.
The ban applies to streets and piazzas around the city centre, including Via de’ Neri, Piazzale degli Uffizi, Piazza del Grano and Via della Ninna. Before the new ban, local businesses had complained about the issue.
In one case, there was a scuffle between the owner of a leather goods shop and a Spanish family who were on his front step. At the time of introduction, mayor Dario Nardella said: “It’s not a punitive measure but a deterrent.
“If tourists behave in Florence as they would at home then they will always be welcome, especially if they want to try our gastronomic specialities.” The ban only applies in the areas mentioned during peak tourism hours including noon to 3pm and 6pm to 10pm.
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