One of Europe's most beautiful cities is set to introduce strict new rules that could alter the experience for holidaymakers. Florence, located inItaly's Tuscany region,was named Europe's best by Travel + Leisure last year, welcoming a record 16.2 million tourists.

The Italian destination has become one of the country's most overcrowded cities, and as a result, the Government have launched another crackdown on overtourism by placing a ban on outdoor dining in popular tourist spots after complaints from local residents.

Outdoor seating will be banned on 50 streets in Florence's city centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The new rules also include tighter restrictions on outdoor seating in 73 additional locations, meaning that although seating may be allowed, umbrellas and plexiglass barriers could be banned.

The proposal has received criticism from local restaurant owners, who argue that the soon-to-be-banned features are essential components of their service, particularly during the summer months.

The owner of restaurant Ristorante Pizzeria II David, which has 60 seats in the outdoor area, says that the feature is "fundamental" to the business.

Outdoor dining became more popular across Italy during the pandemic, when mayors relaxed regulations following the lockdowns.

Another said: "True restaurateurs have begun to close.

"They are crushed by impossible costs and by city policies more concerned with the aesthetics of outdoor seating than with the survival of those who brought these spaces to life."

Locals, however, believe that the new rules are necessary, as the narrow paths struggle to accommodate outdoor seating areas. Some have compared the streets to an "obstacle course".

The Ponte Vecchio bridge, Piazzale degli Uffizi and courtyard by the Uffizi Gallery are among the other sites that will be impacted by the changes being introduced due to rising concerns about overtourism.

Cecilie Hollberg, director of Galleria dell'Accademia, told local media: "Florence is very beautiful and I would like it to return to its citizens and not be crushed by tourism."

Jacpop Vicini, Florence's tourism chief, explained that the measures were designed to "protect public spaces and Florentine heritage" and to "make the city more liveable for residents".