Homepage
Travel news

Bizarre bans: 14 strange Spanish rules holidaymakers should know

Photo of Jacob LewisPhoto of Jacob Lewis
By Jacob Lewis

25 October 20245 min read

A view of Blanes beach in Costa Brava, Spain

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.

Aerial view of Barceloneta beach in Barcelona on a bright blue dayAerial view of Barceloneta beach in Barcelona on a bright blue day

1. No shirtless strolls in the city

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.

2. Beach reservation? Not so fast!

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.

3. Dominoes: a high-stakes game in Seville

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.

4. No mops on display, please

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.

5. Sleeping in your car is a no-go

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.

A view of colourful Bilbao city in SpainA view of colourful Bilbao city in Spain

6. Keep your vocal talents to yourself

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.

7. Shirtless driving is off-limits

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.

8. No paddleball in the waves

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!

9. Dumpster diving is a don't

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.

10. No hitchhiking on major roads

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.

A view of La Seu Cathedral in Palma, MajorcaA view of La Seu Cathedral in Palma, Majorca

11. Alcohol restrictions in the Balearic Islands

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.

12. No booze cruises

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.

13. Limited drinks at all-inclusive resorts

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.

14. Smoke-free beaches

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.

Sign up and save on your next holiday

Be a savvy traveller and get top deals to your inbox, expert travel advice and the chance to win holidays

We won't pass your details on to anyone else. By clicking the sign up button you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.