Posted by Elizabeth Hart on Sat, Jul 21, 2012 @ 12:05 PM
By Elizabeth Hart
Many European cities have taken steps to preserve the serenity of these vacation destinations for the citizens and tourists alike. Be sure to research clothing laws before you head out so you don't find your souvenir money being spent on fines!
Here are a few specific laws to keep in mind:
Italy - Believe it or not, extra-provocative clothing can offend the local sensibility.
Castellammare di Stabia (South of Naples) has outlawed mini-skirts, low cut jeans, and outfits revealing too much cleavage. Don't head this warning and risk a whopping 300 Euro fine.
Out of reverence, the Vatican City requires clothing to cover shoulders and legs to the knee.
Many cities along the Italian Riviera require cover-ups over bathing suits. In Lerici, it is not permitted to walk the streets in only a bathing suit. The island of Capri takes the law one step farther to protect the vacation destination by banning noisy shoes - such as clogs or other wood soled shoes.
Greece - The Grecian government has banned the wearing of high heels at all historical sites. This law comes after many of the coutry's historical landmarks - most notably the Acropolis - were damaged. I have also heard (but not confirmed) that there are also gum restrictions due to the same reasoning as the high heels.
Another thing to note, although not clothing related, all electronic games are banned. Now, whether this is extended to tourists or will be enforced, I have no idea. So, keep your game playing to the safety of your hotel room and enjoy the beautiful scenery during the day!
Spain - This isn't clothing related...but just as important! Spitting anywhere is rude. But getting caught spitting on the streets in Barcelona will definitely get you a fine (up to 750 Euros) with possible jail time.
I could not find any direct laws against provacative clothing, however, scant clothing is generally frowned upon as every day wear. Don't be surprised if you're forbidden to enter a church with bare shoulders or knees, so plan accordingly.
United Kingdom - This also isn't particularly clothing...but spitting gum onto the street will earn you a littering fine of approximately $600!
General Consensus: Wear proper travel clothing and supportive walking shoes and you will have no concerns.
For Travel Clothing Guidelines see our European Travel Clothing Checklist
If you know of any similar laws please share.
Happy Traveling!
Note: This blog was inspired by a recent Yahoo! Travel article titled: "Weird laws to know before you travel"
Connect with Elizabeth through Google+