top of page
Search

Up to €3,000 in fines: Palma tightens rules to fight overtourism

New rules in Palma de Mallorca ban camping, limit alcohol, and restrict large tourist groups as locals push back against overtourism across the Balearic Islands.
Palma de Mallorca is stepping up its fight against overtourism with new 2025 rules banning camping, restricting alcohol, and limiting large tour groups. These measures build on earlier bans on street drinking and party boats, as the city tries to preserve local life amid record tourist numbers. Photo by DJ Nick Otronic on Unsplash
Palma de Mallorca is stepping up its fight against overtourism with new 2025 rules banning camping, restricting alcohol, and limiting large tour groups. These measures build on earlier bans on street drinking and party boats, as the city tries to preserve local life amid record tourist numbers. Photo by DJ Nick Otronic on Unsplash

Palma de Mallorca is according to Mallorca Nyheter rolling out stricter rules this summer in a major effort to reduce the impact of mass tourism. The new regulations, effective from May 2025, aim to restore order and quality of life for residents while promoting more responsible travel.

Key changes

  • Camping ban: Camping is no longer allowed in the city. Motorhomes may stay up to 10 days in one spot but cannot use chairs, grills, or similar outdoor equipment.

  • Public behavior fines: Graffiti, vandalism, and illegal ads can cost up to €3,000 in fines. Urinating or spitting in public may result in fines up to €750, especially near schools and historic sites.

  • Alcohol restrictions: Minors caught drinking in public can face fines up to €1,500. Stores cannot sell alcohol between 9:30 PM and 8:00 AM. Public drinking is banned in tourist hotspots including Palma, Llucmajor, and Calvià.

  • Tour group rules: Guided tours are now capped at 35 people, and megaphones or loudspeakers are prohibited. Violations may cost up to €750.

Locals are also sharing a «tourist etiquette guide» online, asking visitors to learn basic Catalan greetings, avoid loud behavior at night, and reduce car use in favor of walking or public transport.

Regional measures also include:

  • Higher accommodation taxes during summer

  • Cruise passenger fees of €2 to €6 per night

  • Rental car taxes up to €80 based on emissions

  • Traffic limits in Soller to ease congestion

These changes reflect growing frustration over overtourism, which has driven up housing costs and strained local infrastructure. In 2024, Spain welcomed over 94 million tourists, and the Balearics saw a 6.6% rise in British visitors alone.

Tourists are still welcome—but the message is clear: respect the island, or reconsider your trip.

bottom of page