Cinque Terre: Fines of up to €2,500 for wearing flip-flops

Anyone visiting the Cinque Terre and deciding to hike the trails in the National Park should pay close attention to their footwear. Since 2019, the use of flip-flops and unsuitable footwear has been banned on hiking trails for safety reasons, with fines of up to 2,500 euros.

The Cinque Terre remains one of the most popular destinations for the Italian summer. Nestled between cliffs and terraced vineyards, the five villages perched above the sea attract millions of visitors each year, eager to discover spectacular landscapes and scenic trails. However, vacationers planning a hike in the heart of the National Park must also pay attention to their attire, particularly their footwear.

In fact, since 2019, the park has implemented a regulation prohibiting access to the trails for anyone wearing flip-flops, sandals, and other types of footwear deemed unsuitable for hiking trails. This measure is not about aesthetics; it addresses real safety concerns. The trails connecting the villages pass through areas with significant elevation changes, stone steps, uneven terrain, and surfaces that can become slippery due to moisture and the proximity to the sea.

Flip-flops, designed for relaxing at the beach or for short walks in urban areas, do not provide the necessary support for the foot and ankle. On uneven terrain, they increase the risk of slips, sprains, and falls. Furthermore, an accident on the trails may require emergency response, with consequences that extend beyond the hiker involved and affect the entire park organization.

The regulations

To discourage behavior deemed dangerous, the regulations provide for administrative fines ranging from 50 to 2,500 euros. The amount depends on the severity of the situation and the level of risk on the section of trail being traversed. Inspections are carried out by authorized staff and park rangers, who may also deny access to the trails to anyone not wearing appropriate footwear.

This rule applies exclusively to hiking trails. Walking in flip-flops through the narrow streets of Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, or Riomaggiore is not considered a violation under any circumstances. The ban applies only to sections marked and managed by the Cinque Terre National Park.

To use the trails, it is not necessary to wear professional hiking boots.

Closed-toe shoes that provide good traction, have a non-slip sole, and ensure stability while walking are more than sufficient. Lightweight hiking boots, trail running shoes, or simple sneakers with a lugged sole are generally suitable for most routes.

The case of Cinque Terre is not unique

The case of Cinque Terre is not unique. In several European countries, flip-flops are subject to restrictions in various contexts. In Spain and Greece, for example, wearing them while driving can result in penalties, as they are considered a potential obstacle to proper control of the pedals. In France as well, authorities may challenge their use when it is deemed incompatible with safe driving.

Attention to dress codes also extends to other public and cultural venues. Prestigious theaters, religious sites, and museums often enforce specific entry rules, in some cases banning beach shoes or requiring attire deemed more appropriate for the setting.

For people visiting Cinque Terre, the simplest solution is to keep leisure time separate from hiking time. Flip-flops may be perfect for the beach and for strolling through the villages, but once you decide to take one of the famous trails that wind between the coast and the hills, it's essential to wear appropriate footwear. A small precaution that helps you avoid hefty fines and, above all, enjoy the experience in complete safety.