A tourist activity is causing trouble in Rome.Image: www.imago-images.de
A tourist attraction is causing trouble in Rome. Politicians and residents are demanding tough consequences after complaints have recently increased in the historic old town.
June 28, 2026, 9:22 p.mJune 28, 2026, 9:22 p.m
Simon Stich / watson.de
Rome’s old town attracts millions of visitors every year. More and more often they roll from sight to sight in electric golf carts or converted small cars. According to many residents, this has now reached a level that is causing increasing problems for the city.
That is why the region is working together with the city of Rome on new specifications for tourist vehicles. However, a complete ban is currently not planned. Instead, clear rules for operation should be introduced.
Among other things, fixed routes, binding operating conditions and sanctions for violations are now being discussed. Representatives and tourists from the regional government, the city and the tourism industry want to discuss possible measures as early as next week.
The trigger is numerous complaints from the historic city center. According to residents, the open vehicles are increasingly causing traffic jams on narrow streets and temporarily blocking traffic.
There is also criticism of disorderly stops and concerns about the safety of pedestrians and passengers. According to critical voices, the tours further aggravate the already tense traffic situation in the center, writes The standard.
The historic old town is already under pressure from tour groups, delivery traffic and numerous construction sites. Now the popular golf cart tours are also coming into focus. Politicians point to Florence, where comparable offers have already been restricted by regional regulations.
Law planned before the end of the year
According to the regional government, a corresponding law could be passed before the end of the year. However, the prerequisite is that politicians and the tourism industry agree on common rules. The city of Rome would then have to implement the new requirements by ordinance.
For the time being, this does not mean any immediate changes for those on vacation. Anyone planning a city tour in a golf cart in the future could, however, be prepared for stricter regulations. As is often the case, the aim of the planned reform is to better align tourism with the interests of the people in the old town.