Cover up or pay a fine, Portugal's Albufeira warns

Tourists visiting the popular Portuguese city of Albufeira may soon face fines for wandering the streets in swimwear. The beachside city in the southern Algarve, a favorite among British holidaymakers, has updated its code of conduct to prohibit partial or complete nudity in public spaces. This includes wearing bikinis or going shirtless away from the beach, with fines of up to €1,500 (£1,250) for those who break the rules.

Albufeira now joins other European cities such as Barcelona, Dubrovnik, and Nice, which have similar regulations. While the city is known for its beautiful beaches and lively nightlife, its reputation as a party destination has led to concerns about the behavior of some tourists. Last year, a group of British men was filmed dancing naked on a bar in broad daylight on Rua da Oura, Albufeira’s main party strip. The video went viral, prompting an emergency meeting with local authorities, security forces, and businesses. Mayor José Carlos Rolo vowed to take action against "excessive" behavior from tourists.

The proposal, outlined in a document (in Portuguese), emphasizes the need to "preserve Albufeira as a multicultural, family-friendly, and safe destination." In addition to banning nudity, the rules also prohibit public sex acts. They extend to terraces visible from public spaces, and business owners who allow inappropriate behavior may face hefty fines. The proposal is currently under public consultation but could be enacted in time for the summer season.