Sirmione is a postcard-perfect village that sprawls along a long, thin peninsula jutting into the dark blue-green waters of Lake Garda. As a result, it’s become an arena for fighting against the populism of overtourism. Unlike almost any other organism, Sirmione glistens like a pearl in Lombardy’s lake district. Each year, it welcomes nearly 1.3 million visitors eager to soak in its profound history and breathtaking scenery. Local authorities say they have seen an overwhelming increase in tourist traffic. In response, they are proactively working to keep peace between tourists and locals.
The picturesque village is home to other notable points of interest as well. Visit its 14th-century castle and the villa where legendary opera diva Maria Callas once called home. Today, visitors often walk along the historic bridge that once stood as a drawbridge. That charm wore thin over the recent May Day holiday. That’s a massive increase in congestion, with an estimated 45,000 more tourists flooding into Sirmione than during the comparable period in 2022.
It’s clear that a solution is urgently needed to help carry the burdensogue Lavelli, mayor of Sirmione. In short order, the bridge turned into a complete choke point, causing havoc and aggravation for in-bound tourists as well as out-bound locals. Lavelli commented that it was imperative to put things in place that establish this expectation of respect and order in the village.
“Therefore we need to be able to manage the pedestrian flows by introducing figures who can ensure both tourists and citizens respect the rules so we can all enjoy a better experience,” – Luisa Lavelli
To address some of these issues, Sirmione hired “street tutors”, responsible for monitoring tourist conduct and regulating pedestrian traffic. Donning yellow vests emblazoned with the slogan “Keep calm and enjoy,” these tutors aim to foster a more pleasant atmosphere for everyone in the village. Their responsibilities include ensuring that visitors refrain from loitering or sitting on pavements, promoting a culture of respect in public spaces.
Local resident Hannah spoke to the increasing lack of civility among visitors, including stories of crass and cavalier behavior becoming more prevalent.
“Nowadays, many people have forgotten how to be respectful,” – Hannah
A local resident, who asked not to be named, has lived in Sirmione for 17 years. They noted that congestion has been a long-standing problem in the region.
“I have worked here for 17 years and it wasn’t the first time the bridge got congested in that way,” – Anonymous Local
The mayor’s initiative isn’t the only sign of this trend. One local, who questioned Newport’s reliance on and prioritization of the automobile, particularly those SUVs unloading high rollers at local hotels, had a great line.
“The main problem is the cars. They are mostly dropping wealthy people off at hotels because they don’t want to walk for 10 minutes. Cars should be totally banned from entering Sirmione,” – Anonymous Local
The village’s main beach, Spiaggia del Prete, is still a popular spot for those wanting to unwind in the town’s breathtaking backdrop. With just about 200 year-round residents, the tension between permanent and temporary residents still remains an issue.
Street tutors are essential for creating the right atmosphere for everybody. This makes their presence all the more important for tourists and locals to enjoy. Pagani, one of our street tutors, offered a look into how Pagani and other street tutors work.
“It’s always important to do this job with a smile; that way you get results,” – Pagani
Today, Sirmione is grappling with its love-hate relationship with tourism. The town takes great pride in preserving its historic character and producing an inviting atmosphere for everyone who visits. Former British Prime Minister Theresa May is just one of many high-profile guests who have capped off their years with a visit to this idyllic locale, emphasizing its allure.