Little known law in tourist hotspot could land you with a £422 fine if broken

A travel expert is warning holidaymakers heading to popular destination about a little-known law which bans eating and if broken could set back individuals up to €500

A travel expert is warning holidaymakers heading to popular destination about little-known law that could catch them out and leave them €500 (£422) out of pocket if broken.

From its Duomo cathedral to winding streets featuring romantic architecture, Florence in Italy is a beloved tourist hotspot visited by over 15 million people every year. However, most tourists who visit the picturesque city are unaware of one major law that is easy to break and could cost them hundreds of pounds.

Florence has long been known for its food scene and as we head into the harvest season, this steps up to take centre stage in the city. From wild boar pasta to locally-sourced truffles from the Tuscan region, the Autumn months make Florence a foodies dream destination. Unless they break one law.

“Walking around the city all day and exploring the many attractions is hungry work,” says Jessica Bollinger, travel expert at Kilroy. “But unsuspecting tourists must be aware that 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,” Jessica warned.

Whilst the city’s government introduced this law in 2018, it’s still unknown to many tourists, but the seemingly innocent act can land you with a fine of up to €500 (£422), which would certainly put a damper on your European getaway.

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. Prior to the new ban, local businesses had been complaining about the issue, and in one case a scuffle occurred 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 stated: “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.”

However, the ban only applies in the areas mentioned during peak tourism hours including noon to 3pm and 6pm to 10pm. The city ordinance originally came into effect on September 4, 2018. Whilst it is unclear how many travellers have fallen victim to the unusual law, it may be better to keep your snacking in Florence to the less popular spots in the city.