Law
American Tourist Faces Potential Fine for Shirtless Jogging in Venice
An American tourist was warned by locals for jogging shirtless in Venice, highlighting strict public decorum laws in the Italian city.
According to a report by Khaosod Online Thailand on August 20, 2026, an American couple visiting Venice experienced an embarrassing encounter while attempting a morning jog. Seeking to avoid crowds, the man chose to run shirtless due to the heat, mistakenly believing it was acceptable based on his previous experiences in Florence.
Local residents expressed visible disapproval, and one man confronted the tourist, stating, "This is not a beach." Upon checking local regulations, the couple discovered that Venice prohibits being shirtless or wearing swimwear in public streets and squares to maintain respect for the city's cultural and religious heritage. Violators can face fines of up to 250 euros (approximately 10,000 baht). The couple promptly rectified the situation by putting on a shirt and apologizing to locals.
This incident serves as a reminder for travelers that Venice enforces strict public conduct rules. Beyond the ban on shirtless attire, the city prohibits sitting or eating on monuments, bridges, steps, or canal edges, with fines ranging from 100 to 200 euros. Additionally, swimming in canals or littering can result in fines up to 350 euros. While these regulations are established, travelers should always verify current municipal ordinances before visiting, as enforcement policies may vary. It remains to be confirmed if further legislative updates to these decorum laws are planned for the upcoming tourist season.