For those charting summer vacations in 2025, a growing list of newly implemented travel restrictions may be worth noting – potentially impacting your wallet or even your legal standing. From beach attire considerations to photography regulations, here are six relatively new rules across a few popular destinations you might want to familiarize yourself with before departing.
Bikini Ban in Albufeira
In Albufeira, a popular resort town in Portugal's Algarve region, beginning in July, wearing only swimwear (such as bikinis or swimming trunks) on public streets or when using public transport will soon be against the rules. According to Mayor José Carlos Rolo, swimsuits will essentially be limited to beaches, specified bathing areas, outdoor hotel locations, and associated entrances or parking areas. While an initial public awareness initiative is planned, keep in mind that violations may result in fines ranging from €300 to €1,500.
Photography Bans in Czech Republic and Poland
Meanwhile, in both the Czech Republic and Poland, fairly stringent photography restrictions have been put in place near certain military locations. Snapping pictures near the Ministry of Defense in Prague, close to the well-known castle, could lead to fines as high as 100,000 crowns (about €4,000); these zones are typically marked with “Zakaz fotografovani” signage. Poland has a broader application, encompassing approximately 25,000 sites, including power plants and airports, with penalties potentially reaching €4,700, along with a possible 30-day jail term and camera confiscation. Be especially careful if signage is not easily visible, cautions the German Foreign Office.
Alcohol Ban in Limone
Consider also that Limone, Italy, famed for its lemon cultivation along Lake Garda, has implemented a ban on consuming alcohol in public spaces like parks and sidewalks, in effect from mid-April through November 1. Approved by Mayor Franceschino Risatti, this rule carries fines ranging from €25 to €500, as such, visitors are encouraged to consider a non-alcoholic lemon soda instead.
Camping Restrictions in Greece
Elsewhere, Greece has prohibited camping on beaches, coastal areas, forests, and archaeological sites; parking caravans or motorhomes is also limited to 24 hours outside official designated locations, according to the German Foreign Office. Enforced since May, violating these rules may cost you €300. Furthermore, a new road traffic law will mean more severe penalties for those caught not wearing motorcycle helmets or using cellphones while driving.
Smoking Ban on French Beaches
Finally, beginning July 1, France will ban smoking on beaches, in parks, and also in public gardens across the country. As announced by Health Minister Catherine Vautrin, this prioritization of children’s right to clean air will be supported by fines of €135 for any breach.
At the start of the main tourist season 2025, Capri's mayor Paolo Falco decided to protect Capri visitors from intrusive traders with a new regulation. To ensure that tourists are no longer bothered by traders, from now on, sellers are prohibited from approaching travelers "by showing menus, brochures, leaflets, maps and any kind of advertising material."