Britons looking to spend time at the beach or pool in popular European destinations such as Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Croatia this summer should be aware of strict regulations to avoid potential fines.
Several vacation spots have recently imposed dress code regulations for residents and visitors, especially concerning attire like bikinis, pool cover-ups, and swim shorts. The enforcement primarily targets individuals wearing such clothing outside beach or pool areas in local towns.
For instance, Sorrento in Italy introduced a ban in 2022 on wearing swimwear away from designated areas. Violators may face fines of up to €500 (around £433). The restrictions do not apply within hotels, beach clubs, or beach and pool areas but are strictly enforced in town centers, shops, and restaurants.
Various Spanish locations have also implemented beachwear dress codes. In Barcelona, fines of up to £260 could be imposed for town wandering in inappropriate attire. Majorca enforces fines of up to £500 for wearing beachwear outside designated zones, with similar regulations against shirtless individuals. Many restaurants also prohibit beachwear in their establishments.
In destinations like Malaga, strolling into the city center in beachwear may result in fines of up to €300 (approximately £259). The regulations aim to preserve the area’s decorum and discourage inappropriate attire in public spaces.
Similarly, Italian towns like Portofino, Positano, and Capri impose fines of up to €500 (about £433) for walking around the main town in beach attire. Venice strictly prohibits swimwear or going bare-chested in the historic city center, with fines of up to €250 (around £216).
In Portugal’s Albufeira, new rules penalize individuals wearing swimwear outside beach or pool areas, with fines ranging from €300 to €1,500 (approximately £259-£1298). The regulations were enforced to address disruptive tourist behavior.
Tourists in Dubrovnik are not allowed to enter the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town in swimwear or shirtless, facing fines of up to €700 (around £606) for violations. Similar regulations are in place in other Croatian cities like Split, where fines start from €150 (about £129).
In Hvar, Croatia, new regulations include fines for wearing swimwear or being shirtless in town areas. These measures aim to maintain appropriate attire and respect local customs.
If you have experienced issues with a holiday destination’s dress code, feel free to contact us at webtravel@reachplc.com.
