It seems crazy to even have to say this, but don’t write on, carve into, or otherwise vandalize the city’s monuments. In 2023, a tourist was caught on camera carving his name into the Colosseum, causing widespread outrage. According to the BBC, he later apologized, but such an offense could result in a fine of up to €15,000 and up to five years in prison. In 2022, two tourists were apprehended by police after tossing electric scooters down the Spanish Steps, causing €25,000 worth of damage. It should be a given that historic monuments must be respected—it’s hard enough to protect them from the elements; Romans shouldn’t have to worry about protecting them from disrespectful tourists.
INSIDER TIPIn 2019, sitting on the Spanish Steps was banned. Though the ban isn’t consistently enforced, it’s better to err on the side of caution and find another place to sit.
