Tourists Banned From Venice's Canals, Fined $529 Each

A Growing Problem: Tourists Banned from Venice for Swimming in the Grand Canal

Venice, known for its historic architecture and stunning canals, has recently taken a strict stance against tourists who violate local rules. A 35-year-old British man and a 25-year-old Romanian woman found themselves banned from the city for 48 hours after being caught swimming in the Grand Canal. Their vacation was cut short as a result of this enforcement.

The incident occurred on Thursday, September 11, when the couple arrived in Venice for their Italian trip. They had planned to stay for several days, but their plans were disrupted on the same day they arrived. According to reports from Il Gazzettino and CNN, the pair was spotted swimming near the Accademia Bridge, close to St. Mark’s Square, before heading toward the Rio San Vidal kiosk.

Local gondoliers at the kiosk witnessed the act and immediately reported the violation to the authorities. Police responded quickly, issuing each tourist a fine of €450 (approximately $529) and a 48-hour ban from the city. As a result, the couple was forced to return to the United Kingdom, cutting their vacation short.

This is not an isolated case. According to local reports, there have been 10 violations of swimming in the Grand Canal in 2025 alone. In 2024, seven such cases were recorded, compared to 14 in the previous year. The city has been cracking down on these incidents, with officials emphasizing the need to protect Venice’s heritage and maintain public order.

“Venice must be defended from those who disrespect it,” said security councilor Elisabetta Pesce, per Il Gazzettino. “Protecting the city means ensuring decorum for residents and visitors who experience it with civility.”

Why Swimming in the Canals Is Prohibited

The prohibition of swimming in Venice's canals is not arbitrary. According to the official website of the City of Venice, it is illegal to bathe, dive, or swim in the canals for several reasons. These include preserving urban cleanliness and landscape, as well as ensuring safety and public hygiene.

Additionally, Venice is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site, which makes it illegal to swim, paddle board, or canoe in the city. The 1973 Special Law for Venice aims to safeguard the city's historical, archaeological, and artistic heritage, as well as its lagoon.

Previous Incidents and Enforcement Measures

This is not the first time that Venice has taken action against tourists who engage in prohibited activities. In 2022, Mayor Luigi Brugnaro shared a video of tourists surfing down the Grand Canal. He criticized the behavior, calling the individuals “two overbearing imbeciles who are making a mockery of the city.” He even offered a free dinner to anyone who could identify them.

In that case, the Associated Press reported that each traveler was fined about $1,350 and had their surfboard confiscated. They were also forced to leave the city.

Ongoing Efforts to Protect Venice

Venice’s local police have issued a total of 1,136 eviction orders since the beginning of the year for incidents involving degradation and uncivilized behavior. Of these, around 10 were specifically for swimming and diving in the canals.

Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of maintaining the city’s dignity and protecting its unique cultural and historical significance. With increasing numbers of tourists visiting Venice each year, the challenge of enforcing these rules remains a top priority for local officials.

As the city continues to deal with these issues, it’s clear that strict measures will remain in place to ensure that Venice remains a place of beauty, history, and respect for all who visit.