Strict Rules in European Resorts: What Can Get You Fined This Summer
European holiday destinations have introduced strict regulations that can lead to hefty fines for seemingly innocent beach activities, affecting Latvian tourists in popular resorts.
European resorts are tightening rules to manage tourist crowds and protect the environment. Latvian travelers heading to favorite holiday spots should be aware of several new restrictions.
Beach Equipment Limits
In Sardinia, at Punta Molentis beach, each family or group is allowed only one umbrella, which must be placed in designated spots. At Pelosa beach, also in Sardinia, visitors are required to place special mats under their towels to prevent sand from sticking – violators face a €100 fine. In Greece, 251 beaches now ban any additional structures entirely.
Smoking Bans
Spain bans cigarettes and e-cigarettes on over 600 beaches, including Barcelona and the Canary Islands. In France, smoking near swimming areas can result in a €135 fine, while Italy enforces similar bans in Veneto, Sardinia, and Apulia.
Wearing Swimwear Outside the Beach
In Sorrento, Italy, walking through town in swimwear can cost up to €500; similar rules apply in Varenna on Lake Como. Albufeira, Portugal, imposes fines up to €1,500. In Spain, going topless in cities like Barcelona and Mallorca can lead to a €300 fine. Croatia's Split, Dubrovnik, and Hvar have fines around €150 for such violations.
Other Prohibitions
In Vigo and Marbella, Spain, urinating on the beach or in the sea carries fines up to €750. In Portugal, playing loud music via portable speakers can result in fines from €200 to €4,000 for individuals, and up to €36,000 for groups, with confiscation of the speaker. Many beaches in Italy, Spain, France, and Croatia ban dogs or allow them only during certain hours. Lastly, in Granville, France, bringing elephants to the beach has been prohibited since 2009 after a traveling circus's elephants left unpleasant traces in the water.
