At the height of summer, it is a familiar sight across Spain: holidaymakers strolling bare-chested through town centres, often fresh from the beach and visibly sunburnt. What many tourists regard as a perfectly normal part of a seaside holiday has long irritated local residents. Now, a growing number of Spanish cities and coastal resorts are taking action
Spain Press Editorial Team
Municipal authorities across the country are increasingly imposing fines on people who walk around without a shirt outside designated beaches and bathing areas. Councils say the measures are intended to improve public coexistence and reinforce a simple message: streets and squares are not an extension of the beach.
Barcelona was among the first Spanish cities to introduce specific restrictions. Under its municipal regulations, people are prohibited from walking or remaining in public spaces without a T-shirt, shirt or other garment covering the upper body. Those actively taking part in sport are exempt. Anyone found breaching the rule may face a fine of between €120 and €300.
Palma de Mallorca also penalises people for going bare-chested in urban areas. The ban applies to streets, public squares, public transport and municipal buildings. Exceptions are limited to beaches, seafront promenades, swimming pools and the areas immediately surrounding them. Offenders can be fined as much as €750.
Similar rules are in force in Alicante. There, appearing bare-chested in public is generally prohibited unless the person is on a beach, promenade or in another area specifically designated for bathing and leisure. The maximum fine is also €750.
The trend is by no means confined to major cities. Popular holiday destinations including Marbella and Sant Antoni de Portmany in Ibiza have also introduced substantial penalties for those who ignore local dress regulations.
The debate resurfaces every summer. While many visitors see little wrong with walking around shirtless during periods of intense heat, residents often regard the practice as disrespectful and inappropriate away from the beach.
An increasing number of councils are therefore drawing a clearer line between beachwear and acceptable clothing in urban spaces. Tourists who choose to ignore the rules may find themselves taking home an unexpectedly expensive souvenir: a municipal fine.
