The Cinque Terre continue to be one of the most popular destinations of the Italian summer. The five villages overlooking the sea, nestled between cliffs and terraced vineyards, attract millions of visitors every year eager to explore spectacular landscapes and panoramic routes. However, those who plan an excursion along the paths of the National Park must also pay attention to clothing, in particular footwear.
In fact, since 2019, the park has introduced a regulation that prohibits access to the paths to those wearing flip-flops, slippers and other shoes considered unsuitable for walking on hiking trails. The measure is not linked to aesthetic reasons, but arises from safety needs. The routes that connect the villages cross sections characterized by steep differences in height, stone stairways, uneven terrain and surfaces that can become slippery due to humidity and proximity to the sea.
Flip-flops, designed for relaxing on the beach or for short walks in urban contexts, do not guarantee the necessary support for the foot and ankle. Uneven ground conditions increase the risk of slips, sprains and falls. An accident along the paths can also lead to the intervention of emergency services, with consequences that go beyond the individual hiker and involve the entire park organization.
The regulation
To discourage behavior deemed dangerous, the regulation provides for administrative sanctions that can vary from 50 to 2,500 euros. The amount depends on the severity of the situation and the level of risk of the route travelled. The checks are carried out by the staff in charge and by the park guards, who can also prevent access to the paths to those who do not have adequate footwear.
The rule concerns exclusively hiking routes. Walking in flip-flops through the streets of Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola or Riomaggiore does not constitute any violation. The ban comes into force only in the sections marked and managed by the Cinque Terre National Park.
To tackle the trails it is not necessary to wear professional mountain boots.
Closed shoes with good grip on the ground, equipped with a non-slip sole and capable of offering stability during walking are sufficient. Lightweight trekking shoes, trail running models or simple sneakers with sculpted soles are generally adequate solutions for most itineraries.
It doesn’t just happen in Cinque Terre
The case of Cinque Terre is not isolated. In different European countries, flip-flops are subject to restrictions in different contexts. In Spain and Greece, for example, they can lead to fines if used while driving a vehicle, as they are considered a potential obstacle to correct control of the pedals. Even in France the authorities can contest its use if it is deemed incompatible with safe driving.
The attention to clothing also extends to other public and cultural places. Prestigious theatres, religious sites and museums often adopt specific rules for access, in some cases excluding beach shoes or imposing clothing considered more appropriate for the context.
For those visiting the Cinque Terre, the simplest solution remains to distinguish moments of relaxation from those dedicated to excursions. Flip-flops may be perfect for the sea and for walking in the villages, but when you decide to tackle one of the famous paths that wind between the coast and the hills it is essential to wear suitable shoes. A small measure that allows you to avoid heavy fines and, above all, to live the experience in total safety.
