Why is Milan banning takeaway food sales after midnight? The reason behind the Italian city’s ban
Those looking for a late-night gelato in Milan may soon be unable to get their fix as the city announced a plan to ban takeaway food sales after midnight.
If you’d like to get a late-night snack in Milan, you might not be able to do so in the near future whether you are a resident or a tourist, as city officials are pushing to prohibit selling takeaway food after midnight.
Although famous for its fashion industry, Milan, the capital city of the Lombardy region in northern Italy, also boasts a diverse food culture. Access to its cuisine will effectively be limited by the ban, affecting those who experience cravings for gelato and/or pizza in the late hours.
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Why is Milan banning takeaway food sales after midnight?
Tourism in Milan has recovered after experiencing a dip during the pandemic. According to the Milan Tourism Board, the city recorded more than 10 million visitors in 2022. There is therefore pressure to manage tourism in a way that will not disturb the city’s residents.
According to CNN, local government officials are proposing the new law to find “a balance between sociability and entertainment and the peace and health of residents.”
The officials say the new guidelines would forbid restaurants and bars from selling food and drink from 12:30 a.m. to 6 a.m. on weekdays, and from 1:30 a.m. to 6 a.m. on weekends. They believe the rule would help control the noise level in residential areas.
If the law is enforced, it could take effect as early as next month, being put into place until the tourist season ends in November.
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Italian local governments protect their cities from overtourism
Milan is not the only Italian city taking measures to control tourist activity.
Venice is implementing new rules this year to keep mass tourism in check. Beginning June 2024, the city is limiting organized tour groups visiting the city and nearby islands to 25 people. These groups will not be allowed to stop along bridges and narrow streets. The city is also prohibiting the use of loudspeakers.
The popular destination for couples will charge tourists a trial fee of €5 if they want to visit the city for the day.