If you’re planning a trip to Venice, there is one law you need to be aware of – as you could be in for a nasty surprise if you’re caught ignoring the rules
With winter gripping the UK and temperatures plummeting towards freezing, you’re probably not the only one fantasising about your next summer getaway. But if you’re planning a trip to one beloved Italian hotspot, there’s an obscure regulation you need to know about.
Ignore this rule at your peril, as you could find yourself stung with a massive €500 penalty – that’s roughly £438. The regulation applies to the waterway city of Venice, where countless tourists descend annually.
There’s a social media trend of capturing snaps in the city’s Piazza San Marco while surrounded by the flocks of pigeons that congregate there, reports the Express.
Yet these birds have turned into a public relations disaster for the city.
From 2008 onwards, local officials have implemented a rigorous prohibition on selling and handing out grain to nourish pigeons and other birds throughout the city.
This measure was introduced following numerous grievances from residents and holidaymakers about the sheer amount of bird droppings blanketing the city.
Currently, if officials spot you attempting to capture that perfect shot by feeding the pigeons, you might find yourself liable for a €500 penalty for your efforts.
Street sellers around the square frequently attempt to flog you bird feed for photographs, but this regulation means both parties face fines.
Simon Hood, Executive Director of relocation firm John Mason International, said: “Everyone’s seen the photos of tourists covered in pigeons in the Piazza San Marco; it’s become something of a Venetian tradition.
“But few know it’s illegal to feed any pigeons in the square, meaning attracting them to take the photo using bird feed makes you liable for a fine from Italian authorities, not just the vendor who sold it to you.”
As Italy gears up to host the 2026 Winter Olympics, Simon cautions that the authorities are likely to be even more watchful next year.
He warned: “We’ve heard the cycle that comes with international sporting and athletic competitions from clients. Globally, it’s the same pattern: local authorities put massive amounts of time into cleaning up streets, creating additional transport links, dealing with the small issues – in this case, pigeons. So, I’d recommend thinking twice about whether that Venice snap is really worth it.”
