Proper etiquette is the standard in Portofino.
New Rules and Regulations Introduced in Portofino, Italy, to Combat Overtourism
Portofino, the picturesque Italian seaside resort on the Ligurian coast, has introduced a set of new rules and regulations aimed at preserving the village's charm and combating overtourism during the busy summer season. The measures, which are in effect until September 30, primarily target groups of visitors arriving by boat in the small harbor.
The new code of conduct includes several provisions designed to maintain peace, respect local culture, and protect the environment from negative tourist behaviors. For instance, alcohol consumption in the streets is now prohibited, and bans have been imposed on walking barefoot, bare-chested, and wearing swimwear or inappropriate sandals in the town. Significant fines of up to 1,800 euros may be imposed for violations such as nudity, walking barefoot, or public drinking.
Eating and drinking, including the famous Portofino Focaccia, is only allowed in designated establishments. Violations of the new code of conduct may result in fines up to €500. Notable features of Portofino include the colorful houses, crystal-clear sea, lively Piazzetta, and exclusive shopping. The resort has hosted numerous celebrities like Winston Churchill, Maria Callas, and Madonna.
One regulation bans begging, although it was a rumor that beggars could come from the neighboring town of Santa Margherita. However, there are mixed reactions to the regulations on social media, with some applauding and others sneering.
One business owner, the baker of Portofino, may not agree with the measures. She believes everyone should be allowed into Portofino. Walking barefoot, in swimwear, or with exposed upper bodies on the Piazzetta or in the streets of Portofino's historic center is prohibited.
Parking for a car in Portofino costs 8 euros per hour and up to 80 euros for a whole day. The village currently has a population of 352 and is the Italian municipality with the highest average income. The mayor, Matteo Viacava, stated that the regulations have nothing to do with rich or poor and that it's often the rich who behave the worst.
Blocking the view of the sea for a selfie is also prohibited in Portofino, as the village strives to maintain its unique charm and beauty for all to enjoy. The new rules and regulations aim to ensure a peaceful and enjoyable experience for both residents and tourists alike.
Meanwhile, Venice has doubled its entrance fee for 54 days, another effort to manage tourism in Italy's popular destinations. As the summer season approaches, it seems that many Italian resorts are taking measures to protect their towns from the impacts of overtourism.
[1] https://www.portofinotoday.com/portofino-news/new-rules-and-regulations-for-tourist-behavior-in-portofino/ [2] https://www.italymagazine.com/travel/portofino-new-rules-for-tourists [3] https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/europe/italy/liguria/articles/portofino-new-rules-for-tourists-in-2025/ [5] https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/portofino-new-rules-for-tourists-2025/index.html
- The community policy in Portofino, Italy, now includes a prohibition on walking barefoot, bare-chested, and wearing swimwear or inappropriate footwear in the town center, as a part of their initiative to combat overtourism and preserve the village's charm.
- Aside from the regulations in Portofino, Venice has increased its entrance fee for 54 days as another measure to manage tourism and address overtourism issues in Italian popular destinations.
- Many fashion-and-beauty, home-and-garden, lifestyle, travel, politics, and general-news enthusiasts may find these new rules and regulations in Portofino appealing, as the resort continues to prioritize maintaining its unique beauty and charm, being a well-known destination for celebrities and wealthy visitors.
