British tourists heading to popular European destinations like Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Croatia this summer are being warned of strict dress codes that could result in hefty fines. While swimwear is permitted on beaches and at pools, wearing it in town centres or restaurants may lead to penalties.
In Spain, Barcelona fines up to £260 for wandering in beachwear, while Majorca imposes fines up to £500 for similar offences. Malaga also enforces a €300 (approximately £259) fine for entering the city centre in swimwear. The rules apply to both bikinis and bare chests.
Italy's Sorrento has banned swimwear away from beaches and pools since 2022, with fines up to €500 (£433). Portofino, Positano, and Capri have similar restrictions. Venice prohibits swimwear or being bare-chested in the historic centre, with fines up to €250 (£216).
In Portugal, Albufeira introduced dress codes last year, fining those wearing swimwear outside beach or pool zones between €300 and €1,500 (£259-£1,298). Croatia's Dubrovnik bans swimwear and shirtlessness in its UNESCO Old Town, with fines up to €700 (£606), while Split fines up to €150 (£129). Hvar also penalises beachwear in town.
Authorities argue these rules aim to maintain decency and prevent inappropriate attire in dining and shopping areas. Tourists are advised to cover up when leaving beach or pool areas to avoid fines.
