In certain areas of Majorca and Ibiza, tourists may now face significant fines for consuming alcohol in public as part of a crackdown on “excessive tourism”. The government of Spain’s Balearic Islands has implemented stricter laws that were first introduced in 2020. Along with prohibiting public drinking, the regulations also restrict the sale of alcohol in shops during late hours and impose tighter controls on party boats. Tourists who violate these rules could be fined up to €3,000. Here is what you need to know to avoid a fine.
Which areas are affected by the ban? The ban extends to three resorts in Majorca – Llucmajor, Palma, and Calvia (Magaluf) – as well as San Antonio in Ibiza. It also applies to a one nautical mile (1.85km) radius off the coast of these destinations, with party boats prohibited from coming any closer and from picking up or dropping off passengers in these areas. Palma mayor Jaime Martínez has stated that one of the main objectives of the ban is to “address uncivil behavior”.
Does the alcohol ban mean no alcohol at all? No, tourists are still permitted to drink, but with stricter regulations on where. Specifically, public drinking is not allowed. The only exception to this is on the terraces of bars or restaurants, or in other designated areas. However, walking down the street with an open container or half-finished drink is strictly prohibited. Shops that sell alcohol must close between 9:30pm and 8am.
What are the consequences for tourists who violate the rules? Those found to be publicly drinking in a way that “disrupts coexistence, involves crowds, or disturbs the peace of the environment” may face fines ranging from €750 to €1,500 (£645 to £1,290). In the case of a serious offense, the fine could increase to between €1,500 and €3,000 (£1,290 to £2,580). Local authorities will report the number of foreign tourists who have received sanctions to their respective embassies.
How will the ban be enforced? The government has allocated up to €16m (£13.7m) for enforcing the ban on public drinking. This will include increased security and inspections, as well as efforts to raise awareness of the regulations among tourists in the affected areas.
When does the ban go into effect and for how long will it be in place? The ban has been in effect since May 11, 2024 and will remain in place until December 31, 2027. After that, the government hopes that the law will no longer be necessary.
How does this differ from the previous regulations? The new decree strengthens the laws that were introduced in 2020, which banned happy hours, pub crawls, and two-for-one drink offers. Those rules also prohibited the sale of alcohol in shops between 9:30pm and 8am, and prohibited party boats from advertising in designated areas. The main change is the ban on public drinking. Additionally, the duration of the regulations has been extended from a minimum of five years to the end of 2027.
