New, strict alcohol bans on Ibiza and Mallorca: what does this mean for tourists?
Planning a trip to Ibiza? Nice! We still have some great spots for you. The same goes for Mallorca, which we’re just as fond of. Whichever of the two Spanish islands becomes your destination, you’ll need to take at least one thing into account: both have strict, tightened alcohol bans. What does that mean for you as a tourist?
Ibiza and Mallorca have had enough for years. Every year, hordes of tourists arrive and literally and figuratively tear the place apart. The goal of many holidaymakers? To drink as much as possible. Well, I immediately get a flashback to my own graduation trip to Albufeira, about 11 years ago.
Oh yes, people live there
Ibiza and Mallorca want the peace and quiet to return to their islands a little more. Because as fun as partying there is, the islands are also simply very beautiful. There’s nature, heritage and magnificent buildings. And besides: people live there. People who also want to live peacefully and don’t want to deal with party animals who come and stir everything up.
No more takeaway beers…
So there are rules. They apply specifically to the Balearic Islands, the island group to which Ibiza and Mallorca belong. A first rule already came into effect in 2020: alcohol may not be sold in the evenings and at night. That is still the case. The tightened rule means, specifically, that shops selling alcohol must keep their doors closed between 9:30 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. So buying a takeaway beer before heading into the pub is no longer possible there.
… really not
There’s another reason why takeaway beers are a no-go on Ibiza and Mallorca: drinking alcohol in public is not allowed. You can drink on terraces, but walking from one place to another with a drink in your hand is out of the question. So finish it first before deciding to go into the club. Or pay a nighttime visit to the beach.
Finally, you’ll also be disappointed if you were planning to go on such a fun party cruise. These boats are not allowed to come within 1.85 kilometres of the coast of those places. Such vessels are also prohibited from picking up or dropping off passengers there.
Hefty fines
Are you ignoring the islands’ rules? Then you’ll have to dig deep into your pockets. Fines can easily range from €500 to €1,500. If the violation is really serious, the fine can even rise to around €3,000. Ouch. You could almost go on holiday again for that amount. Think you can get away with your actions? Approximately €16 million has been invested in security and inspections on the islands. That’ll make it difficult.
Also read:
- Book it: these European cities have the cheapest beers
- These are top chefs’ favourite Spanish ingredients
- Sobrasada: ‘spreadable’ chorizo from Mallorca
Source: Time Out, NU.nl
