Stupid question but...

Are there any tourist sites where cameras and/or backpacks are forbidden? Not merely where photos aren't allowed but places where you cannot even take a camera or backpack.

I have some rather expensive camera equipment (over $7000) and I really don't want to leave it in the hotel room, if you catch my drift.

It all fits rather neatly in a medium sized backpack that I had planned to take when I leave the hotel. Yes, I already know about thiefs who may target camera equipment backpacks. But I'm more interested in knowing if I won't be allowed to take it to some locations.

Any?

I can't think of any place in Rome where I could not take my camera. Expect to get your bag inspected now and again. They ask that you not take pictures inside the Sistine Chapel, but you can have your cameria with you.

I agree, I can't think of places they'd actually take your bag from you - you'll go through a metal detector & scanner (like at the airport) at St. Peter's, & you're not allowed to take photos in many parts of the Vatican Museums, but I carried my camera around my neck and didn't have any problems. Don't know if you're going to Venice, but St. Mark's doesn't allow bags or backpacks inside the basilica, so that's one place you might want to trade off going inside with someone else who can hold your bag for you.

a very stupid thing happened to me in saint peter's basilica in vatican, where the guards forbided me to use a tripod to take pictures. i mean i was allowed to take pictures ore to film, but without using a tripod.

Hi

As mention already, you can bring your camera but there are some places were you are not allowed to take pictures and some places that have specific signs saying that you can't use a tripod. Here is my Rome trip report with pictures http://gardkarlsen.com/rome_italy.htm . Have a great trip :-)

I can't recall not being able to carry your camera anywhere. Photos were not allowed inside some buildings including the Sistine Chapel, some of the churches (St Peters is OK) and obvious places like art galleries. A lot of Rome's great sights for photography are outide (Forum, piazzas, Colosseum, etc). You'll be fine with your camera.

And enjoy this fantastic city.

Mark H
Travel Wonders of the World