Published on
September 1, 2025
Italy, Greece, Portugal, Spain, Croatia, France, and other major European destinations have announced a wave of new rules and significant fines for travelers in 2025. These measures come as a direct response to the growing challenges of overtourism, which has led to overcrowded attractions, environmental strain, and disrespectful tourist behavior. The updated regulations include bans on eating or sitting at historic landmarks, restrictions on inappropriate clothing, smoking prohibitions in public spaces, and limits on beach-related activities. Heavy penalties—ranging from hundreds to thousands of euros—are now being enforced to protect cultural heritage, safeguard natural landscapes, and ensure residents’ quality of life. By tightening these rules, Europe aims to promote responsible tourism and preserve its most iconic destinations for future generations.
Ignoring these guidelines can result in steep fines, so travelers planning a trip to Europe should take note of the following restrictions.
Venice, Italy – Preserving the Floating City
Venice has long struggled with the impact of excessive tourism, and new measures aim to protect its fragile environment. Sitting on monuments, bridges, or steps is forbidden, and eating or drinking on the ground in public areas is also banned. Offenders can face fines of €100 to €200.
Swimming in the canals is considered a serious violation and carries penalties of €350, while appearing in swimwear or bare-chested outside beaches can result in fines of €250. Feeding birds like pigeons and seagulls is prohibited, with penalties reaching €500. Even bicycles are not allowed in the historic center unless carried by hand in designated areas.
Rome, Italy – Safeguarding Cultural Icons
In Rome, measures have been introduced to protect globally recognized monuments from damage. Sitting on the Spanish Steps can cost tourists €400, and consuming food or drinks near major landmarks is off-limits. Entering fountains or splashing in them, such as at the Trevi Fountain, can lead to fines of up to €500, with the added risk of permanent bans from the site.
Cinque Terre, Italy – Footwear Rules on Scenic Trails
Cinque Terre’s famous hiking trails require proper shoes for safety. Flip-flops, beach sandals, and smooth-soled footwear are banned on challenging paths. Tourists breaking this rule may face fines as high as €2,500, making sturdy footwear a must for any trekker.
Greece – Protecting Nature and Ancient Heritage
To prevent damage to its beaches and archaeological sites, Greece has introduced two key restrictions. Collecting shells or pebbles from protected beaches can cost travelers €1,000, while wearing high heels at historic monuments is banned to avoid harming delicate surfaces. Fines for this violation can reach €900.
Portugal – Respect Public Spaces in Albufeira
Albufeira has launched a campaign urging tourists to behave responsibly. Wearing swimwear in public areas away from the beach is prohibited, and offenders risk paying €1,500. Other banned behaviors include public drinking, cooking outdoors, unauthorized camping, and excessive noise in residential zones.
Spain – Beach Behavior and Alcohol Crackdown
Spain has tightened its rules on beaches and in nightlife areas. Reserving sunbeds by leaving towels or personal belongings unattended is now punishable by fines of €250. In addition, the Balearic Islands have banned public drinking in the streets, with penalties of up to €3,000.
Croatia – Dubrovnik’s Clean Tourism Drive
Dubrovnik, famous for its medieval walls, is cracking down on actions that disturb the city’s atmosphere. Sleeping in public spaces, public drunkenness, climbing monuments, and wearing swimwear in inappropriate areas are all punishable offenses.
France – New Smoking and Dress Code Rules
Several French destinations have banned smoking in outdoor public spaces such as beaches, parks, and bus stops to protect health and reduce litter. Walking shirtless or in beachwear outside designated zones is also prohibited at coastal resorts.
Responsible Tourism Is the Future
The growing trend of overtourism is forcing destinations to take a firm stance. These measures are not just about maintaining order; they are essential to preserve heritage, protect the environment, and respect local communities.
Travelers are encouraged to stay informed about local regulations, not only to avoid penalties but also to contribute to sustainable tourism practices that keep these destinations beautiful for generations to come.
