British tourists heading to the Balearic Islands this summer could face fines of up to €3,000 if they break Spain's strict new alcohol rules, a travel expert has warned. The 'Decree for Responsible Tourism', introduced in 2024, bans street drinking and limits all-inclusive packages to six alcoholic drinks per day.
Simon Hood, executive director of John Mason International, said holidaymakers in Magaluf, Playa de Palma, and San Antonio must split their six drinks between lunch and evening meals. He warned that hotels can charge extra for breaking the rules, and that two-for-one cocktails and happy hours are now banned.
Off-licence alcohol sales are also restricted between 9.30pm and 8am in certain areas. Fines for drinking on streets or beaches range from €500 to €3,000, depending on the severity of the offence. Local authorities have pledged zero tolerance for unruly behaviour following anti-tourism protests over overcrowding and rising rents.
Hood advised tourists to avoid drinking in public and making excessive noise, but stressed that they can still enjoy their holidays responsibly. 'These rules may seem strict, but they're trying to promote harmony between local residents and tourists,' he said.
