PORTOFINO, Italy — The picturesque Italian Riviera village of Portofino has implemented strict new measures to combat overwhelming tourist crowds, establishing “no-waiting zones” where visitors face fines of up to €275 for lingering too long in popular photo spots.
The Problem: A Village Under Siege
With just over 400 permanent residents, Portofino has become a victim of its own stunning beauty. The colorful harbor village, famous for its pastel-colored houses and luxury yacht marina, regularly sees daily visitor numbers exceeding 10,000 people during peak season — creating what Mayor Matteo Viacava describes as “anarchic chaos.”
The narrow streets and small piazzas, already limited in space and further constrained by outdoor restaurant seating, have become dangerously overcrowded as tourists jostle for the perfect Instagram shot along the iconic waterfront.
The Solution: Red Zones and Steep Penalties
In response to the crisis, municipal authorities have designated two key areas as “red zones” or “no-waiting zones” where tourists are prohibited from stopping to take photos or selfies. The restrictions are in effect from 10:30am to 6pm and will last at least until next Oct. 15. Penalties for those who stop range from €65 to €275.
The zones specifically target the most photogenic and congested areas where tourists traditionally gather for photos. While visitors can still walk through these areas, dine at restaurants, or shop, they cannot pause for extended periods to take pictures.
“The objective is not to make the place more exclusive but to allow everyone to enjoy our beauty,” Mayor Viacava said, according to The Independent. “We want to avoid dangerous situations caused by … overcrowding and blocked pathways.
A Growing Italian Trend
Portofino’s measures reflect a broader struggle across Italy’s most beloved destinations. In Portofino, authorities have implemented “no-wait zones” to prevent crowding in popular spots, while Sardinia has introduced visitor limits on its most famous beaches, such as La Pelosa, to protect the delicate ecosystem.
Venice has similarly introduced group size limits and is planning entry fees for day visitors, while Florence has banned vacation rental keyboxes to better regulate tourist accommodations.
Balancing Tourism and Livability
The new regulations represent a delicate balancing act for communities that depend economically on tourism while struggling to maintain quality of life for residents. “It is not a closed number,” says Portofino’s mayor Matteo Viacava, “the aim is to allow all tourists coming to Portofino to enjoy the town to the fullest, but also to manage the flow more effectively.
The village continues to welcome visitors but hopes the new rules will encourage more respectful tourism practices and prevent the dangerous bottlenecks that have plagued the destination during peak season.
What Visitors Need to Know
Tourists planning to visit Portofino should be aware that:
- No-waiting zones are enforced daily from 10:30 AM to 6:00 PM
- Fines range from €65 to €275 for violations
- The restrictions run through October 15
- Visitors can still move through the areas but cannot stop for extended photo sessions
- Restaurants and shops in these zones remain open and accessible
The municipality hopes these measures will preserve Portofino’s charm while ensuring it remains accessible to the millions who visit this jewel of the Italian Riviera each year.
For more travel news and updates on Italian tourism regulations, visit our Travel section.
