Brits heading to Spain this summer are being urged to make sure they are aware of local rules and regulations – or risk being fined up to £2,500 ($3000) for one drinking error as the country clamps down on tourists.
Ahead of the summer holidays, travel experts have warned Brits should ensure a sound understanding of Spain’s new rules before holidaying there.
Members of the public who organise “unauthorised gatherings” can be fined up to €750 for playing music too loudly. Areas such as Valencia may also impose fines between €1,501 and €3,000 for setting up tents and shelters without authorisation.
Many beaches are now smoke-free zones, with a cigarette costing you up to €450 in fines, and a fine for drinking on the beach or promenade ranging from €1,501 to €3,000.
Spain has expanded its restrictions on alcohol in public spaces, with drinking on the streets, parks, and on beaches strictly prohibited.
If you are found drinking in a public space, you can be fined up to €3,000. Areas in Majorca, such as Llucmajor, Palma and Magaluf, have also stopped the sale of alcohol between 9:30pm and 8am, as well as putting a restriction on happy hour deals.
Members of the public who organise ‘unauthorised gatherings’ can be fined up to €750 for playing music too loudly. Areas such as Valencia may also impose fines between €1,501 and €3,000 for setting up tents and shelters without authorisation.
Many beaches are now smoke-free zones, with a cigarette costing you up to €450 in fines, and a fine for drinking on the beach or promenade ranging from €1,501 to €3,000.
Spain has also introduced daily visitor caps at certain beaches in the Balearic and Canary Islands. Platja d’Aro, in Costa Brava, has announced fines up to €1,500 for appearing in public “with clothing representing human genitals” in a crackdown on stag and hen dos from the UK.
The bylaw specifically bans people from appearing “on the public thoroughfare without clothing or only in their underwear or with clothing or accessories representing human genitals or with dolls or other accessories of a sexual nature”.
There is now also new information needed for those wanting to book accommodation or rent cars. Information collected by hotel owners, private rental providers and car hire companies will now be passed on to the Spanish Ministry of Interior to improve the country’s national security. Visitors will now have to provide their
Chris Harrington, Managing Director at travel experts hoppa, said: “Spain is introducing a wave of new travel regulations in 2025, following record-breaking visitor numbers. These new regulations have been put in place to manage mass tourism and public behaviour, and are extremely important to follow.”
“Failure to comply with new regulations can lead to holidaymakers being charged hundreds of euros, with more serious offences potentially incurring fines between €1,500 and €3,000.”
“To help holiday makers enjoy their trip without facing any unwanted charges, we have put together a list of the 4 regulations you should be aware of”
Chris added: “Spain is an incredibly popular tourist destination for British holidaymakers. But it’s more important than ever to be mindful and respectful when holidaying.
“By travelling with awareness of the local culture and regulations, you can contribute to a positive travel experience for yourself and others. Before travelling, it is a good idea to check the Spanish tourism board and ensure that you are abiding by the rules of the municipality you are visiting.”