Full list of Spain’s tourist rules as warnings issued to people travelling to certain areas

It's that time of year again where we're firmly setting our sights on heading overseas for a holiday in the sun.

And for most Brits, nowhere will be visited more than our close European neighbour Spain. But heading to the sunny country comes with specific rules that many fall foul of for simply not knowing they exist.

More than 15.5 million of us left the British Isles last year for a holiday in Spain or its islands, including the popular Balearics and Canaries.

It's a massive number, with it some five million more than the country in second place, France.

But travel experts have now issued a warning to Brits planning to catch some sun in Spain for their summer holidays.

"Everyone knows that the British public love a holiday, and now that it’s nearly spring, UK tourists will be starting to think about where they want to travel to this summer," said Dom Aldworth, brand marketing co-ordinator at Slingo.

"However, before you pack your suitcase, it’s important to educate yourself on any travel rules, especially as new regulations are announced every year. This way you can enjoy your summer holiday, whilst staying safe and being respectful to local laws."

Here are the main rules you need to be aware of if you are heading to Spain:

Getty Stock Images

Noise pollution

Being loud is going to land you in trouble, according to those in the know.

Unruly tourists in Alicante, which lies on the Costa Blanca, will be slapped with heavy fines for being loutish.

We're talking playing music too loudly on a beach or having a few more drinks with music in your hotel accommodation after the night has officially ended.

Slingo says: "These regulations are tighter versions of rules the city council implemented in March 2019, and could cost Brits up to €30,000 (£25,667).

"Everyone wants to have a good time on holiday, but you can have fun and respect others at the same time."

After-parties

After-parties also come with huge fines in two of the most popular areas for those heading to Spain to enjoy its nightlife.

Tourists in Ibiza and Majorca should be wary here, with unlicensed or unruly parties issued a fine to anyone involved in the event.

Those attending will also be fined up to £25,000.

Getty Stock Images

Taxis

The UK government has already warned British tourists that they should only use registered taxis.

And while on one hand that's for safety reasons, it's also because those riding in unlicensed taxis will be subject to fines.

You could see yourself slapped with a financial penalty of up to €600 (£510).

Night swimming and beach trips

One for those heading to Benidorm here.

Also on the Costa Blanca just a short drive north of Alicante, tourists could be fined more than a grand for simply going on to the beaches after dark. Specifically, between the hours of midnight and 7am.

You cannot swim in the sea or sleep on the sand. Those who do will be fined between £650 and £1,020.

Experts say: "This rule has been introduced to reduce the risk of any swimming-related accidents during the times when lifeguards are not available.

"In order to not waste the resources of local emergency services, it’s best to keep your beach activities to the daytime."

Getty Stock Images

Showing too much

Nudist beaches exist for a reason, the authorities say.

Taking all your clothes off in undesignated areas and you'll be fined. We're talking £560 per person.

It's not a hard rule to follow to be fair, with Spain full of destinations for those who like showing it all.

Beach drinking

It is a hard no from authorities when it comes to drinking alcohol on Spanish beaches.

The same goes for smoking cigarettes.

Those with booze will be fined £650. Smoking is a lot more, coming with a fine of £1,700.

It's all about protecting the beaches from litter as well as the health risks that come from drinking and swimming or smoking around people on what can be very crowded areas.