Beaches in Europe provide for some of the most beautiful vacation spots. Millions of vacationers choose these locations each year to explore, enjoy, and create memories.

But you should catch up because a lot of Europe's well-known beaches have changed in the past year.

The most beautiful beaches in Europe are discussed in-depth, along with the steps being done to further improve their allure.

Spain

According to the Europe Summer Tourism Index, Spain has the highest score for being the best summer destination in the continent. There is no wonder that the country attracts millions of tourists, especially due to its blue flag beaches, for which it has a world record.

However, beaches across Spain have imposed restrictions which can relate to clothing, maintenance of shores and tourist behaviour overall.

Destinations like Barcelona, Malaga and Palma de Mallorca all ban swimwear outside of beaches and pools, similar to Sorrento in Italy.

No Reserving Spots at the Beach

Recently, local councils in Spain have decided that tourists who reserve beach spots by putting a towel there, risk getting fined. The measure has been implemented in some municipalities of Alicante, including here the city of Benidorm which is popular for its nightlife.

In nearby Calpe, holidaymakers who set up umbrellas, chairs or hammocks before 9.30 a.m. face a fine of up to €250.

No Smoking on the Beach

Barcelona has introduced a new measure that bans smoking on the beach. Those found breaking this rule risk a fine of €30.

The measure was initiated as an alternative to reduce the number of cigarette butts on the beach.

No Football Shirts at Restaurants

A total of 11 restaurants in Barcelona have enacted a new dress code for beachgoers, banning those with football merch from entering.

In addition, strapless tops, accessories bought from streetside vendors and any clothing with the logos of alcohol brands will not be allowed. However, this rule does not make holidaymakers eligible for being fined.

No Urinating in the Sea

Galicia, the autonomous municipality in Spain has decided to fine those found urinating or attending to physiological needs on the sea. The Galician city of Vigo will fine those breaking the rules, a total of €750.

The new measure was introduced after the city revealed concerning levels of contamination. Playa Jardin was the most affected area.

No Sleeping or Swimming on the Beach After Midnight

Benidorm has also banned swimming and sleeping at the beach between midnight and 7 am. Tourists can be fined up to €1,200 if found not abiding by the rules.

Italy

In addition to its rich culture, Italy has one of the most breathtaking coastlines and is the second-most popular destination for summer tourism in 2024. There are hundreds of beaches for tourists in Italy and that is why millions of tourists keep visiting this country.

However, in order to maintain tourism levels, this coastal country has initiated some measures, mainly related to the way tourists dress up.

No Swimwear Outside Beaches & Pools

Sorrento, a popular city on the Amalfi coast, does not allow tourists to wear swimwear outside beaches and pools. Those found breaking the law can be fined €500.

No Towels in Sardinia

In an effort to maintain the Spaggia della Pelosa in Sardinia, the local authorities have introduced rules to not bring a towel for sunbathing, saying that they trap too much sand.

In addition, there is a daily visitors cap (1,500 visitors per day) and a €3 entry fee for this beach.

Destinations like Lu Impostu and Brandinchi in Sardinia also have a daily visitor cap, with no more than 1,500 and 3,300 visitors per day being allowed, respectively.

No Stepping in Spaggia Rosa Beach

Italy bans tourists from stepping on Spiaggia Rosa beach, the pink beach that is one of the most unique in the world. Fines of up to €3,500 can be imposed on violators.

No Selfies in Popular Areas

Tourists to Portofino can be fined up to €275 for posing for selfies, especially in popular spots. The measure has been introduced due to extremely busy spots across the Italian city, which make moving around Portofino very difficult for both locals and tourists.

No Tourist Groups With Loudspeakers

As of June, tour leaders in Venice will not be allowed to guide their tourists with a loudspeaker. In addition, the Italian government capped the number of tourists per group to 25 people, as it aims to reduce “confusion and disturbances”.

No Sitting in Spanish Stepps

The Spanish Steps, known in Italian as Trinita dei Monti are a popular sport where tourists often sit to rest during their visit to Rome. Now, they can be fined between €250 and €400 if they sit on these steps – a measure considered excessive by activists in Italy.

Portugal

The country is popular for many of its beaches, where families and quiet people can find themselves but also adventurous people can be more than satisfied with what the country offers.

In general, Portugal is an easygoing country, but there are rules that beachgoers should follow.

No Loud Music on Beaches

Holidaymakers in Portugal can be fined up to €36,000 if they play loud music at the beach. This includes using portable speakers.