Popular Portuguese Resort Introduces Strict Public Behaviour Fines: Cork Holidaymakers Take Note

Albufeira cracks down on swimwear in streets and public drinking with penalties reaching €1,800 as resort battles 'anything goes' reputation

Cork families planning summer getaways to Portugal's Algarve region will need to pack more than just sun cream this year, as one of the area's most popular destinations has introduced sweeping new rules that could see tourists facing substantial fines for behaviour previously tolerated.

Albufeira, which attracts thousands of Irish visitors annually, officially implemented its new Code of Conduct yesterday (24 June) with penalties that could make a serious dent in any holiday budget. The measures target what local authorities describe as "excessive behaviour" that has damaged the resort's reputation.

The most eye-catching restriction prohibits wearing bikinis, swimsuits or going shirtless anywhere except beaches, designated bathing areas, access routes to them, and outdoor hotel spaces. Tourists caught wandering through town centres or using public transport in swimwear face fines between €300 and €1,500.

Public drinking has also been banned, with the same penalty range applying to anyone caught consuming alcohol in streets or engaging in antisocial behaviour such as public urination. More serious offences carry even steeper consequences, with nude or sexual acts in public attracting fines up to €1,800.

The comprehensive rules extend beyond tourist behaviour to include prohibitions on wild camping (€150-€750 fines), practising sports outside designated areas, making noise in residential zones, and even abandoning shopping trolleys in inappropriate locations.

José Carlos Rolo, Albufeira mayor:

"People have to start changing their mindset and behaviour. Our goal is to prevent these issues and not have to act after they have happened."

Local authorities plan to install warning signs throughout the town and will initially issue warnings rather than immediate fines during a grace period. However, the Municipal Police have been tasked with enforcement once the awareness campaign concludes.

Commercial establishments haven't escaped scrutiny either, facing potential fines up to €4,000 and possible closure for up to two years for certain violations.

The crackdown represents a significant shift for Albufeira, which has built much of its tourism appeal on a relaxed atmosphere. With nearly half of the Algarve's hotel capacity located within the municipality, the economic stakes are considerable.

For Cork holidaymakers accustomed to the informal beach-to-bar culture that has defined many Portuguese resorts, the message is clear: keep the beachwear for the beach and save the street drinking for home. What was once overlooked could now result in a very expensive lesson in local etiquette.

The new rules follow years of planning and were fast-tracked after numerous incidents of problematic behaviour that continued from last summer into this year, according to local reports.