Venice, Italy Evicts Tourists After Alleged Illegal Swimming in Canals: Everything You Need to Know

Written By: Rupsha Saha

Rupsha Saha

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September 16, 2025 12:59 PM

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Venice, Italy – The serene canals of Venice recently became the center of controversy when a tourist couple was evicted for attempting to swim in the city’s iconic waterways. The incident involved a 35-year-old British citizen and a 25-year-old Romanian citizen, who were caught diving into the Grand Canal and the Rio di San Vidal near the British Consulate, according to a statement from the Venice city administration.

Authorities say the tourists’ actions were immediately reported by local gondoliers stationed at San Vidal, who notified the Venice police. A service boat responded, removing the travelers from the canals to prevent further disruption and ensure public safety.

Bathing and swimming in Venice’s canals are strictly prohibited under city regulations, which are designed to preserve the historic urban landscape, maintain public hygiene, and ensure the safety of residents and visitors. Violators can face fines, as well as temporary bans from the area where the infraction occurred.

In this case, both tourists were fined €450 each (around USD 529) and were asked to leave Venice’s historic center for 48 hours, bringing their vacation to an abrupt end. Venice’s Security Councilor, Elisabetta Pesce, expressed appreciation for the quick response of the gondoliers and local police, noting that their timely reporting had allowed authorities to act immediately. She also emphasized that the city administration was committed to addressing disrespectful and uncivilized behavior, explaining that protecting Venice meant safeguarding the dignity of the city and ensuring respect for both residents and visitors.

This incident is part of a broader challenge that Venice faces due to overtourism. Since the start of 2025, the city has issued over a thousand eviction orders to visitors who violated its regulations. Deputy Commander of Venice City Police Gianni Franzoi explained that many of these issues arise from the sheer number of tourists visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Italian government has long recognized the delicate balance between welcoming tourists and preserving Venice’s fragile heritage. Measures include the day tripper fee, introduced in 2024, restrictions on tourist group sizes, and ongoing efforts to protect historic sites such as the island of Poveglia. Residents have actively resisted private development projects that could limit public access to the island, emphasizing the importance of shared spaces for both locals and visitors.

Venice’s canals are not only a key attraction but also an essential part of the city’s ecosystem. Illegal swimming poses risks to both the swimmers and the intricate network of water management systems that protect the city from flooding. The city government, in coordination with UNESCO guidelines, enforces these rules strictly to maintain safety and cleanliness, while ensuring Venice remains an enjoyable destination for all.

Past incidents have underscored the importance of enforcement. In 2023, a tourist was pursued by police after a social media video showed him jumping off a rooftop into the canals. City officials note that repeated violations highlight the ongoing struggle to manage overtourism while fostering respect for Venice’s cultural and natural heritage.

Local authorities emphasize that visitors must adhere to Venice’s rules, not just for legal reasons but out of respect for the community that has maintained this city for centuries. Residents rely on a combination of tourism revenue and sustainable management to protect their homes and public spaces. By enforcing fines and temporary bans, the city hopes to encourage responsible behavior while preserving the canals’ charm.

While Venice continues to be one of the world’s most popular destinations, authorities emphasized that the city’s unique heritage must not be compromised. Councilor Pesce stated that protecting Venice involves safeguarding the city’s dignity and ensuring that visitors experience it responsibly. She added that the recent incident highlighted how even brief lapses in judgment could lead to serious consequences, such as fines and temporary bans, to preserve the city’s integrity for future generations.

Tourists and locals alike are urged to respect the rules surrounding Venice’s canals, including refraining from swimming or other prohibited activities. By doing so, everyone can enjoy the beauty and history of the Floating City while helping preserve it for years to come. Venice’s approach demonstrates that responsible tourism is not just a guideline but a necessity for one of the world’s most delicate and treasured urban environments.