As Europe heads into a peak summer season expected to bring millions of tourists to countries including Greece, Spain, Italy and France, popular destinations are tightening rules to keep public order and protect local life. Many of the restrictions target street drinking, smoking on beaches, improper dress away from the sea, and even collecting shells or pebbles.
In France, several large cities, including Paris, ban alcohol consumption from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., including along the Seine and on the French Riviera, according to The Sun. Taking shells from the beach can be treated as environmental damage and can lead to a fine of €250.
Spain has some of the broadest limits. In many cities, including Madrid and Barcelona, drinking alcohol in the street is forbidden except in restaurants. Smoking and vaping are also banned on the balconies of bars, restaurants and at swimming pools, with fines ranging from €30 to €2,000. In Barcelona, Malaga and Mallorca, walking around in a bikini or swimsuit can bring a fine of up to €300. On many popular beaches, saving a spot with a towel is not allowed, and authorities may confiscate items and fine offenders up to €3,000.
Italy has local rules aimed at reducing crowding and disorder. In Florence, eating outdoors is banned on some streets, and electric scooters are prohibited in the city center. In Portofino, tourists walking on the cobblestones barefoot, in swimwear or shirtless can be fined. In Cinque Terre, flip-flop walking can cost €50 to €2,500, and drinking alcohol in the streets is strictly banned.
Greece also enforces dress and behavior rules. High heels are banned at archaeological sites such as the Acropolis, street drinking is prohibited, and going shirtless in public can lead to a fine of up to €300. The country has also banned sun loungers and umbrellas on 251 beaches, and where they are allowed, at least 70% of the sand must remain clear to preserve an open shoreline.
