Europe's Strangest Tourist Rules in 2024

More than 700 million global travellers arrived in Europe in 2023. That's a post-pandemic record. However, the popular collection of countries will soon see a significant shift in its tourism dynamics.

The European Union will roll out the new European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) in 2025. The system requires visitors from the United States and 60 other nations to secure authorization prior to entering the " Schengen Zone." That limits travel to 23 EU countries, four non-EU countries, and three microstates, even for transit purposes.

ETIAS was originally supposed to arrive this year. It is a pivotal development for visa-exempt visitors to the Schengen Zone, aimed at enhancing border security and public health through pre-screening.

Despite not being a visa, ETIAS necessitates an online application, offering rapid processing times from minutes to a maximum of 30 days for a €7 fee, exempt for those younger than 18 or older than 70.

The initiative is expected to significantly impact travel patterns and the economy, prompting the travel industry, including airlines and major hubs like Heathrow, to adapt to potential changes. ETIAS was intended to offer a safer, more streamlined travel experience by improving border security and efficiency, potentially boosting Europe's appeal as a top destination.

This balancing act between security enhancements and tourism appeal marks a critical juncture in Europe's tourism evolution.

Government officials hoped ETIAS would not just enhance security, but also proactively address the challenges of overtourism. Local governments across the continent have already rolled out unique measures, such as fines for beach towel usage and public behavior restrictions.

It's a strategic approach to sustain tourism without compromising destination quality.

Sardinia's Towel Ban and Sand Theft Fines

Sardinia, Italy, embraces sustainability by enforcing a visitor quantity cap at its most famous beaches. Additionally, the region is issuing fines nearing $4,000 for sand theft, particularly at the salmon-hued shores of Spiaggia Rosa. The famous beach and its pink sand have been closed to visitors since the mid-1990s to prevent further sand loss, a decades-old move that solidifies the island's environmental protection prioritization.

Additionally, visitor access to other popular beaches, like La Maddalena, Cala Coticcio, and Cala Brigantine, requires advance online booking and a nominal entry fee to ensure sustainable tourism practices.

Portugal's Crackdown on Beach Noise

Portugal hopes to promote tranquillity on its beaches by imposing hefty fines for loud music.

The National Maritime Authority (AMN) banned crowd-disrupting portable speakers, with fines ranging from around $200 to $39,000 for individuals and groups. These rules aim to provide a peaceful beach experience for everyone and emphasize the importance of respecting shared spaces.

Seville's Ban on Public Underwear Display

Seville hopes to preserve public decency by targeting rambunctious behavior at bachelor and bachelorette parties. The city's newly enacted measures combat "obscene acts," including explicit attire or apparel bearing sexist messages in public spaces.

The efforts are part of a broader initiative comprising similar measures that work to ensure Seville's streets remain respectful and welcoming to all. These strategies reflect the city's commitment to balancing modern, vibrant nightlife with the traditional cultural heritage that attracts visitors worldwide.

Portofino Cracks Down on Selfie Loitering With Fines

Portofino introduces fines to manage tourist congestion. Mayor Matteo Viavaca announced penalties of around $300 for those loitering in popular photo spots to alleviate "anarchic chaos" on its streets. The rule targets two "red zones" notorious for blocking pedestrian traffic.

The initiative, enforced from Easter weekend, seeks to enhance the visitor experience while preventing overcrowding. Portofino joins a global trend of destinations adopting visitor caps and taxes to balance tourism and local quality of life.

Austrian Village Implements Unique Strategy Against Tourist Disruption

A charming Austrian village's temporary wooden fence hopes to curb excessive and aggressive tourist activity, particularly from overeager selfie enthusiasts. Hallstatt, known for its picturesque landscapes and a population of under 800, faces up to 10,000 visitors daily.

The move is part of Hallstatt's broader initiative to prioritize quality tourism. This move is another element of a now-global tourist destination trend to soften the blow dealt by sky-high visitor volumes. Hallstatt looks to uphold locals' quality of life and cultural conservation.

Spanish Group's Creative Stand Against Overtourism

An anti-capitalist group's strategically placed signs on Mallorca's beaches continue to deter tourists, highlighting locals' collective resistance against overtourism. This initiative by Manacor Caterva aims to preserve the island's natural beauty and mitigate the impact of the millions of visitors it receives annually. The signs warn of nonexistent dangers and send a message to onlookers about tourism's effect on environmental and community well-being.

Venice Transportation and Entry Fee Adjustments

Venice introduced a $5 entry fee for day-trippers, with prices fluctuating based on the season and visitor numbers, potentially rising to around $10 on peak days. This fee is aimed at regulating visitor numbers and encouraging longer stays. Public transportation passes and municipal garage rates have also increased, though discounts are available for those booking in advance.

Europe's innovative approaches to managing over-tourism last year may motivate other destinations to combat similar challenges.