Fancy Italian Beach Town Bans Shirtless Strolls and Alcohol

Portofino, a famous and fancy beach town in northern Italy, is cracking down on certain behaviors to keep its classy image. The new rules, which are in place from July 14th to September 30th, aim to maintain Portofino's reputation as an exclusive destination for wealthy international visitors.

The town is banning begging of any kind, even if it's not aggressive. This ban is especially strict in the historical center, public parking areas, and near churches.

According to the mayor, Matteo Viacava, these measures are designed to protect the town's appeal to tourists and prevent inappropriate behavior in public spaces. The rules go beyond just banning begging.

Here's what else is now prohibited in Portofino:

• Camping out in public (Bivouacking): You can't set up camp anywhere in public.
• Sitting or Lying Down: No sitting or lying on the ground, benches, walls, or under covered walkways.
• Public Drinking: Drinking or carrying alcohol in the streets and squares is not allowed, no matter how strong the drink is.
• Being Bare: Walking around shirtless, in swimwear, or barefoot is also against the rules.
• Loud Noises: Making loud noises after 12:30 AM is forbidden.

Anyone who breaks these rules faces a fine of between 25 and 500 euros.

While the town says these rules are necessary to keep Portofino exclusive, some people are worried. Critics argue that these measures could lead to social exclusion and question whether protecting the town's image is worth limiting people's basic freedoms.

Portofino is a popular place for celebrities, including Piersilvio Berlusconi, the son of former Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi.

(Source: APA, July 14, 2025)

Some related news: In Italy, renting a beach umbrella with two sunbeds can cost up to 55 euros per day.