Surprising European laws tourists need to know this summer

Tourists are being warned about the unexpected laws in eight popular European countries that could result in fines or imprisonment if ignored.

With summer approaching and millions preparing for holidays across Europe, Tiger.co.uk has highlighted several surprising laws that many holidaymakers may not be aware of.

Acts that may seem entirely harmless can be taken very seriously in other countries, so it’s important for travellers to respect local laws and customs.

Innocently collecting shells, pebbles, or sand as a souvenir from a French beach could lead to fines of up to €1,500, particularly if the amount appears intended for commercial use.

Other surprising laws like taking a selfie with a fish in Switzerland or reserving a sun lounger in Spain may seem harmless but could land tourists in trouble.

Ian Wilson, travel insurance expert and Managing Director at Tiger.co.uk said: “Heading off on a summer holiday is always exciting, but it’s important to research your destination beforehand to ensure you’re not breaking any laws or disrespecting locals.

“Activities that may be legal in your home country could be prohibited elsewhere, and unintentionally offending locals could result in fines or even imprisonment while abroad.

“Something as simple as hanging wet swimsuits on the balcony in Switzerland or wearing heels to historic sites in Greece, could land tourists in hot water. 

“While most travellers aren’t trying to purposely break the law, it can be easy to fall foul of unfamiliar local laws when travelling.

“Travel insurance won’t generally cover you for medical expenses or travel disruptions if you’re found breaking the law so it’s crucial to get familiar with local rules to stay safe and ensure your cover remains valid.”

Surprising laws tourists should know about:

1.Spain 

In popular areas of Spain like Barcelona and Costa Blanca, tourists can now be fined €250 for reserving sunbeds, meaning waking up early to bag a spot for you and the family is no longer allowed. This rule was introduced following numerous complaints about sunbeds being reserved for hours with no one in sight.

2.Italy 

Despite the sunny weather, Italy has banned the wearing of swimwear outside of beaches and pools in a bid to uphold public decency and respect for locals. In the popular destinations of the Amalfi Coast and Sorrento, tourists caught breaking this rule can face fines of up to €500.

3.Portugal 

If you’re heading to the beach in Portugal, make sure you locate the nearest toilet before getting comfortable, as urinating in the sea is illegal and can land you with a fine of up to €750 – although pregnant individuals are exempt from this rule.

4.Greece 

In Greece, wearing high heels is prohibited at certain historic sites, including famous attractions like the Acropolis and the Epidaurus Theatre. This rule helps protect delicate surfaces from erosion and cracking. Sitting on ancient monuments is also discouraged out of respect for preservation efforts.

5.England

Tourists visiting England should be aware that queue-jumping in tube station ticket halls is not permitted – it is a legal requirement to join the back of the queue to prevent frustration among passengers and avoid potential conflicts.

6.Switzerland 

Thinking about hanging your swimwear out on the balcony to dry when on holiday in Switzerland? Think again! It’s illegal to hang washing outside on Sundays, as part of laws ensuring no disruption on this day of rest.

For those on a fishing holiday, another surprising law is that you can’t take selfies with fish if you plan to release them back into the water – this rule aims to minimise the pain and suffering of the fish.

7.Turkey 

In Turkey, defacing currency is illegal and can lead to a prison sentence of up to three years, as it’s considered a serious insult to the nation and the Turkish flag. Insulting Kemal Atatürk, the founding father of the Republic of Turkey, is also a serious crime, with penalties of up to five years in prison.

8.France 

It might be tempting to take a handful of the sand as a souvenir when visiting French beaches, but tourists should think twice as removing sand, shells, or pebbles is strictly prohibited and can result in hefty fines, as part of ongoing efforts to protect the coastal environment. Tiger.co.uk helps holidaymakers find savings on all sorts of travel insurance products such as backpackers, family and European holiday insurance.  

This article is intended as generic information only and is not intended to apply to anybody’s specific circumstances, demands or needs. The views expressed are not intended to provide any financial service or to give any recommendation or advice. Products and services are only mentioned for illustrative rather than promotional purposes.