There’s nothing better than treating yourself to an ice cream after a busy day of sightseeing, or during an evening stroll after dinner. However,  travellers looking to enjoy the sweet treat could be handed a whopping fine of up to £435 if they fail to follow an unsuspecting rule in a popular tourist hotspot.

A sun-soaked getaway has never looked more appealing amid the gloomy British weather, and Italy is one of the most favoured destinations to visit, whether that’s a city break or beach escape. Florence is one of the three major cities in Italy, attracting more than 15 million visitors a year thanks to its culture, architecture and art, all within ‘the birthplace of the Renaissance’.

Its thriving Tuscan food scene is another draw to the city, with rare Chianina steaks, wild boar ragù pasta, and locally sourced truffles. Notably, Florence is also considered the birthplace of gelato, so a trip here really isn’t complete without sampling its flavours, though it could come at a hefty cost.

Eating on the street, including for a gelato break, in some areas of Florence is strictly prohibited during peak hours. Despite the city’s government introducing this law in 2018, it is widely unknown by holidaymakers, so it’s easy to be caught out and face a fine of up to €500 (£435).

The law was implemented to prevent overcrowding in the UNESCO-protected city centre, as holidaymakers would gather in the streets around shops and eateries. It applies to streets and piazzas around the city centre, including Via de’ Neri, Piazzale degli Uffizi, Piazza del Grano and Via della Ninna.

At the time of introduction, Mayor Dario Nardella said: “It’s not a punitive measure but a deterrent. If tourists behave in Florence as they would at home, then they will always be welcome, especially if they want to try our gastronomic specialities.”

While the law applies in some of the city’s most popular areas, it’s only in effect during certain times of day, from 12pm to 3pm and again from 6pm to 10pm. Plus, there are still plenty of areas in Florence to enjoy a tasty snack and the beloved gelato, so travellers won’t miss out on the foodie haven when walking around the enchanting city.

Florence has also experienced problems with alfresco dining, and last year revealed that outdoor dining would be banned on 50 historic streets and piazzas. This is due to the number of tables and dining chairs emerging on the streets, with locals claiming it’s like “an obstacle course” as they attempt to weave through.

Florence’s tourism chief, Jacopo Vicini, said the restriction on alfresco dining would “protect public spaces and Florentine heritage”. The ban is set to take effect later this year in historic spots like Palazzo Vecchio, Ponte Vecchio, and Piazzale degli Uffizi.

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