British couple fined and expelled for swimming in Venice canal

Italy has recently witnessed a significant crackdown on tourist behavior, particularly in Venice, where the city has implemented strict measures to maintain decorum. This crackdown follows a series of incidents involving badly behaved tourists that have contributed to rising tensions between visitors and local residents. Recently, a couple from the United Kingdom arrived in Venice only to find themselves in trouble shortly thereafter. On the day of their arrival, they were reported by gondoliers after they jumped into the Grand Canal, leading to their immediate expulsion from the city. Reports indicate that such penalties have been increasingly common in 2025, with officials receiving over 1,136 complaints regarding tourist misconduct. This trend reflects a broader concern about overtourism and its impact on local communities. The Venice Security Councillor, Elisabetta Pesce, emphasized the importance of protecting the city and maintaining its decorum. Swimming in the canals, which is strictly prohibited for safety reasons and due to pollution concerns, has become a noteworthy issue this year. Local police noted that only a limited number of expulsion orders were related to swimming, yet the growing trend of tourist misconduct has highlighted the need for more stringent regulations. Community leaders argue that such behaviors not only disrespect the city's cultural heritage but also degrade the experience for other visitors and residents alike. The couple faced a hefty fine of €450 ($529) each along with a 48-hour expulsion from Venice. Their actions, which some may dismiss as harmless fun, underscore the challenges faced by cities like Venice, which struggle to balance economic benefits from tourism while safeguarding local interests. Frequent reports of tourist misbehavior, including instances of swimming, diving, and surfing in the canals, have led local authorities to adopt more eco-friendly tourism policies. The aim is to foster a respectful and civil atmosphere for everyone who enjoys the city. Amidst these enforcement strategies, city officials have also introduced regulations limiting tour group sizes, banning the use of loudspeakers, and prohibiting standing in narrow streets for guided tours. These measures are designed to foster a more sustainable tourism model that respects both the residents and the city’s significant cultural heritage. The recent incidents underline the ongoing struggle between the necessity for tourism revenue and the preservation of Venice as an iconic destination rich in history and tradition.