25 October 20245 min read
Planning a sunny holiday to Spain? While you're packing your sun cream and phrasebook, make sure to brush up on some of the country's more unusual laws.
From beach etiquette to urban dress codes, Spain has a handful of surprising regulations that might catch unsuspecting sun-seekers off guard.
Let's dive into some of the strangest Spanish laws that holidaymakers should be aware of to avoid any legal faux pas during their adventure.
Think twice before ditching your shirt for a walk through Spanish cities or towns – many places have banned walking around shirtless in public areas away from the beach.
In Barcelona, Malaga and the Balearic Islands (including Majorca and Ibiza), walking around shirtless or in swimwear outside of beach or pool areas can result in a fine of up to €300.
This rule applies to both cities and tourist areas, so it's best to keep your shirt on unless you're lounging on the sand or by the pool. The message is clear: save the beachwear for the beach.
If you're an early bird who likes to secure the best spot on the beach, be warned. Many coastal towns have outlawed the practice of "reserving" beach spots with umbrellas or towels.
In places like Cullera and Calpe, this seemingly innocent act could cost you up to €3,000. First come, first served is the rule of the day on Spanish beaches.
Fancy a game of dominoes at a café terrace in Seville? Think again. The city has banned playing dominoes and dice games on outdoor terraces.
This peculiar law aims to reduce noise pollution, so save your game night for indoors.
In the small town of Villanueva de la Torre, Guadalajara, you're not allowed to hang mops on your balcony. While the reasoning behind this law isn't entirely clear, it's thought to be related to maintaining the town's aesthetic appeal and preventing unpleasant smells.
If you're planning a road trip and thinking of taking a nap in your car to save on accommodation, be careful. In cities like Bilbao and Vélez-Málaga, sleeping in your vehicle is prohibited outside of designated areas. This law aims to regulate wild camping and prevent issues in urban and coastal areas.
Feeling the urge to burst into song on the streets of Zamora? Resist it. This city has banned singing and shouting in public at any time of day.
Similarly, in Madrid, you need to pass an exam if you want to sing in the streets legally. So, unless you're a certified street performer, it's best to keep your musical talents for the shower.
While not explicitly stated in traffic laws, driving shirtless is discouraged throughout Spain.
The Spanish Traffic Department (DGT) warns against this practice, citing safety concerns such as potential seat belt injuries. Fines can range from €80 to €200, so keep your shirt on while behind the wheel.
If you're heading to Benidorm, leave your paddleball set at home. Playing this popular beach game in the water is prohibited, with fines ranging from €700 to €3,000. It seems the local authorities prefer their seas paddle free!
In Seville, rummaging through trash bins can lead to hefty fines of up to €750. While this law aims to maintain cleanliness and hygiene, it's been a subject of controversy due to its impact on those in economic hardship.
If you're thinking of thumbing a ride, be aware that hitchhiking is illegal on Spanish motorways and dual carriageways. It's only permitted on national roads.
Breaking this rule can result in an €80 fine for both the hitchhiker and the driver who picks them up.
If you're heading to party hotspots like Majorca or Ibiza, be aware of new alcohol regulations.
As of May 2024, shops in areas like Llucmajor, Palma, Calvia (Magaluf) and Sant Antoni are prohibited from selling alcohol between 9:30pm and 8am.
Don't worry, though – bars, restaurants and clubs are exempt from this rule.
Party boats are now banned from operating within one nautical mile of certain towns in the Balearic Islands. If you're caught on one of these prohibited cruises, you could face fines between €1,500 to €3,000.
If you've booked an all-inclusive holiday in Magaluf, El Arenal, Playa de Palma, or Sant Antoni, your unlimited drinks aren't so unlimited anymore.
You're now limited to six alcoholic drinks per day – three at lunch and three at dinner. Want more? You'll have to pay extra.
Many beaches across the Balearic Islands have implemented smoking bans with the aim of promoting health and reducing littering. So, if you're a smoker, make sure to check local signage before lighting up on the sand.
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