Barcelona bans pub crawls starting June 1, 2025

Irish tourists are being warned about a new rule in Spain that could result in fines of up to €3,000. Starting June 1, Barcelona will ban pub crawls in its busy Eixample district to address public disturbances and improve safety for residents. Spain is a popular summer destination for Irish travelers. However, authorities are taking action against overtourism and are implementing strict rules. Along with the pub crawl ban, public drinking will also be prohibited in cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and areas like the Balearic Islands. Fines for ignoring these new regulations can range from €100 to €3,000, depending on the violation. Michele Massa, a travel expert, advises tourists to stay informed about the latest rules to avoid accidental fines that could spoil their holiday. In addition, short-term rental platforms like Airbnb will face stricter regulations in 2025. All tourist rentals must be licensed, and there will be increased checks to prevent unregistered properties from operating. Tourists in unlicensed accommodations may experience cancellations or evictions. There are also new regulations for Spain's beaches. Smoking is banned on many beaches, with fines up to €500. Glass bottles are not allowed, and using soap in public showers can lead to fines as high as €750. Noise regulations will be stricter too, especially in popular areas like Alicante. Noise levels in homes will be limited, with fines starting at €600 for violations. Bars and restaurants must keep their TVs muted during certain hours. For those renting cars, companies must now collect personal details similar to hotels. Additionally, some areas, like Soller in Mallorca, have introduced low-emission zones that restrict certain vehicles. Lastly, dress codes are becoming stricter in cities such as Barcelona and Palma de Mallorca. Walking around shirtless or in a bikini could lead to fines of up to €300. Tourists should be mindful of these changes to enjoy their stay without issues.