Brits heading to Spain warned against tougher rules that could lead to £2,500 fine

By ESTHER MARSHALL

Published: 12:48 BST, 25 June 2025 | Updated: 12:52 BST, 25 June 2025

British tourists are being urged to check the rules before heading off on holiday to Spain.

From drinking in public to wearing a raunchy outfit on the street, there are a few ways that Brits could get caught out this summer.

Chris Harrington, managing director at hoppa, says: ‘Spain is introducing a new wave of 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/£1,279 and €3,000/£2,558.’

So, what do Brits need to know before heading to Spain this summer?

Public drinking laws

In an effort to crack down on rowdy public behaviour, drinking is banned in many public spaces in Spain.

British tourists are being urged to check the rules before heading off on holiday to Spain

In some areas of Majorca, including Llucmajor and Magaluf (pictured above), the sale of alcohol is also banned between 9:30pm and 8am

Tourists who break these rules could face a fine of €3,000/£2,558 so it’s important to check your destination’s regulations.

In some areas of Majorca, including Llucmajor and Magaluf, the sale of alcohol is also banned between 9:30pm and 8am.

There are also restrictions on all-you-can-drink deals in these areas and happy hour deals.

Beach fines

Many British tourists head straight to the beach when they get off the plane in Spain. But they will need to follow the rules.

In Valencia, tourists can be fined up to €3,000/£2,558 for setting up a beach tent or shelter without authorization.

Tourists can also be fined for smoking at the beach while drinking in unauthorised areas could also incur a fee.

‘Bans’ on stag and hen-do paraphernalia

Many British tourists head straight to the beach when they get off the plane in Spain

In Platja d’Aro in the Costa Brava, tourists can now be fined €1,500/£1,279 for appearing in public wearing ‘clothes representing human genitals’.

People appearing in public wearing only their underwear can also be fined under this legislation.

Information required for booking accommodation or renting vehicles

Hotel owners, private rental providers and car hire companies are now required to collect information about tourists which will be passed on to Spain’s Ministry of Interior, says Chris.

Visitors will have to provide their; gender, nationality, date of birth, home address, landline phone number, mobile phone number, payment details and method and relationship to any children in the group under the age of 14.

Chris adds: ‘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.’