While in Venice, Keep Your Shirt On

Venice is one of Europe's most popular vacation destinations and the place in Venice where everyone congregates is St. Mark's Square, called the drawing room of Europe by Napoleon.

St. Mark's Square, or Piazza San Marco, is ringed by the magnificent Basilica San Marco, the Doge's Palace, and several posh cafes including the famous Caffe Florian, popular since 1720. But Piazza San Marco is also home to hoards of pigeons, tourists in all manner of dress lying or sitting around the square, and lately lots of trash from take-away eateries.

In order to return the ambiance of Piazza San Marco to what it was in earlier days, visitors to the square will be asked to refrain from eating in the square (except in the cafes), lying down, camping out, or walking around the city shirtless. According to Yahoo News, while there won't be fines for these infractions, there will be nicely dressed stewards to explain these rules to those who break them.

By the way, while the price of a coffee or drink at an outside table on Piazza San Marco is very high, it might be worth it if you plan to linger awhile and take in the atmosphere. At night there is often live music and the scene can't be beat. For those wanting a drink at a lower price, wander off Venice's beaten tourist track and try a neighborhood bar - read more about drinking in What to Expect at an Italian Bar.

Learn more about Venice's Piazza San Marco and plan your vacation to Venice with our Venice Travel Essentials.

_{Picture of Piazza San Marco © 2006 by Martha Bakerjian, licensed to about.com}