Several cities are now enforcing a swimwear ban in European cities, aiming to stop tourists from walking through streets in just swimsuits or without shirts. The trend of strolling directly from the beach into markets, restaurants, or public squares half-dressed has led to real backlash in places where tourism blends into everyday life.
From France and Spain to Italy and Croatia, local officials are tightening dress code enforcement. What used to be ignored is now getting attention from mayors and city police, especially in areas flooded with visitors during summer.
In Les Sables-d’Olonne, a coastal town in western France, the mayor, Yannick Moreau, recently posted a message on social media urging modesty. His message, addressed to mostly domestic tourists, asked visitors to stop entering shops and restaurants in just beachwear. “A little modesty, please,” he wrote. He reminded people that walking shirtless or in a swimsuit in public spaces is not allowed. “If you want to show off your muscles or your favorite swimsuit, there are eleven kilometers of beach for that,” he added.
This rule has been in place since 2020. But this year, the city issued a record number of fines. Ten people were fined in July alone, with penalties reaching €150 each. Most of those fined were French tourists who ignored the rule.
The mayor said the issue worsens every summer. Tourists come straight from the beach and go shopping or dine without changing clothes. Some are seen brushing against fruit stands or walking through supermarkets wearing only swim shorts or bikinis.
“If you go to the market to buy meat or tomatoes, you should not be half-naked and shedding body hair on the produce,” Moreau told The New York Times.
Spain has taken a similar stance. In Málaga, officials have warned visitors to dress appropriately even when walking near the beach. Local councils have issued public statements and used social media to explain that swimwear should stay on the sand. Fines can go into the hundreds of euros, depending on the region.
Italy has also followed the same path. In Sorrento, police now fine tourists walking shirtless in the town center. Warnings are posted at popular entrances, and the policy has been well publicized.
In Dubrovnik, Croatia, walking through the old town in a swimsuit is a clear violation. The city considers it disrespectful to locals and the history of the area. Enforcement has increased this summer.
The swimwear ban in European cities is not a new idea. But the increase in tourism numbers, and the growing frustration from local communities, has brought the issue back to the surface. Many people living in these cities say the beach culture is being dragged too far inland.
Officials explain that these rules are not designed to punish tourists but to protect shared public space. In cities where tourists walk the same streets as locals doing their daily errands, a basic dress code helps preserve respect for the environment.
These cities are not trying to kill the fun of a beach holiday. But they are asking visitors to keep in mind that others live and work there year-round. It is about balance. You can enjoy the coast, but once you step off the sand, dress like you are part of a town, not just a vacation zone.
The swimwear ban in European cities is expected to spread as more towns face similar problems. Cities want to remain welcoming, but not at the cost of losing their dignity or daily order.
