Holidaymakers to Spain face £2,500 fines if they break one drinking rule
Britons eyeing a Spanish retreat this summer are being cautioned about potentially hefty fines of up to £2,500 ($3,000) for drinking-related infractions as Spain tightens its grip on tourist behaviour.
As the peak holiday season draws near, travel gurus are pressing Brits to familiarise themselves with Spanish laws to sidestep unpleasant fines during their trip.
Fines of up to €750 await those guilty of hosting "unauthorised gatherings" and blasting music at high volumes. Valencia's authorities are poised to impose penalties from €1,501 to €3,000 for setting up unapproved tents and encampments.
Several Spanish beaches have also been designated as non-smoking zones, risking fines up to €450 for smoking, while fines for beachside or promenade drinking can range from €1,501 to €3,000.
Spain is intensifying its crackdown on public alcohol consumption, with mass bans across streets, parks, and beaches, according to the Express.
Those found flouting the rules by drinking in public could see fines soaring up to €3,000. Specific regions in Majorca including Llucmajor, Palma, and Magaluf have additionally put an end to alcohol sales from 9:30pm until 8am and have restricted promotional booze deals like happy hours.
Spain has also implemented daily visitor limits 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" as part of a clampdown on stag and hen parties from the UK.
The bylaw specifically prohibits individuals 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 also new information required for those wishing to book accommodation or hire cars. Data collected by hotel owners, private rental providers and car hire companies will now be shared with the Spanish Ministry of Interior to enhance the country's national security.
Visitors will now need to provide their:
Gender
Nationality
Date of birth
Home address
Landline phone number
Mobile phone number
Payment details and method
Relationship to any children in the travelling party under the age of 14.
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 adhere to new regulations could result in holidaymakers being fined hundreds of euros, with more serious offences potentially attracting fines between €1,500 and €3,000.
"To assist holidaymakers in enjoying their trip without incurring any unexpected charges, we've compiled 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."
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