Italian Lakeside Village Fines Semi-Naked Tourists Up to €200

The picturesque fishing village of Varenna, nestled on the shores of Lake Como, has had enough. Tourists wandering its narrow alleyways shirtless or in bikinis now face fines ranging from 50 to 200 euros.

Mayor Mauro Manzoni admitted the measure is far-reaching, but said the local government had no other choice. "Varenna is a beautiful village and we are proud to welcome hundreds of thousands of visitors from all over the world each year. But the quality of life of our residents cannot be sacrificed to mass tourism."

The ancient village, home to only about 650 people and known for its brightly colored tightly packed houses, has seen growing frustration among locals during the summer months. One shopkeeper welcomed the new rules: "On the beach you can do whatever you want, but when you walk around, visit shops, restaurants, churches or the square, you need to dress decently." Another added, "It was about time. A sensible measure. The most important thing is that it is actually enforced."

Beyond the clothing fines, tour groups are now capped at 25 people, blocking narrow alleyways is prohibited, and tour guides may no longer use loudspeakers. The mayor hopes these measures will restore peace to the village.