Swimming in the canals of Venice is strictly prohibited by law, and violators in 2026 face heavy fines of €500 or more, along with immediate expulsion from the city (Daspo). There are several practical reasons for this ban beyond just tradition. First, the water quality in the canals is poor; while the tide flushes the city twice a day, the water still contains high levels of bacteria from the city's ancient sewage system, as well as industrial runoff and fuel pollution from the thousands of motorized boats. Second, the heavy boat traffic from vaporettos, water taxis, and gondolas makes the narrow canals extremely dangerous for a swimmer, who would be almost invisible to pilots. Third, the canals have unpredictable currents and hidden underwater obstacles that pose a drowning risk. Finally, Venice is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and authorities view swimming in the historic urban center as a sign of deep disrespect to the city's cultural heritage. For those who want to swim, the nearby Lido di Venezia offers beautiful, clean Adriatic beaches just a short ferry ride away.