UK tourists heading to France and other European destinations are urged to check local rules and restrictions when it comes to beaches and other public areasFrance will ban smoking on beaches from July 1France will ban smoking on beaches from July 1(Image: Getty Images)

British holidaymakers heading to France this summer are warned of a new ban affecting the country’s beaches, coming into force on July 1.

Smoking in outdoor areas will be banned in areas frequented by children including beaches, parks, schools, bus stops, and sports venues.

Those found violating these laws could face fines of up to €135 (£115). According to the BBC, outdoor terraces of bars and restaurants will be exempt from the ban.

Children, health and family minister Catherine Vautrin said in an interview in Ouest-France daily that regular police would enforce the ban but added that she was a believer in ‘self-regulation’.

Greece has a ban on smoking on beaches Greece has a ban on smoking on beaches (Image: Getty Images)

Dan Marchant, Director of Vape Club, warns holidaymakers that they should be mindful of smoking and vaping restrictions across popular European beaches.

It comes as data from Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) shows there are around 5.6 million vapers in Great Britain, with 90 per cent of these trying to quit smoking.

He said: “As vaping regulations continue to change, it’s important for travellers to stay up to date with the local laws to avoid any unexpected fines or more serious consequences. Always check local legislation before you travel.

“This can be done through the foreign office website or the customs department of the country you’re visiting. Some countries have strict rules not only about where you can vape, but also whether you can bring your vaping device into the country at all.

“It’s worth doing a bit of research ahead of time to avoid issues at the border or during your stay.

“In some destinations, buying vaping supplies may be difficult and possibly even illegal. If it is allowed, bring what you need – but we would advise you to double-check import limits. If you are travelling to a vaping-friendly destination by plane, remember to pack your batteries and vaping devices in your carry-on luggage. This ensures they remain in a pressure-controlled environment, as they’re not allowed in checked baggage.”

France isn’t the only country enforcing strict smoking laws. Here are more destinations with smoking and vaping rules tourists need to be aware of.

Spain

Spain has been particularly proactive in expanding its smoke-free zones, and in many cases, vaping is treated the same as smoking. In 2024, the Spanish Medical Association announced new anti-smoking measures that also target vaping in public places such as beaches and restaurant terraces.

Some of the popular beaches in Spain where vaping bans are now enforced include L’Albir Beach in Alicante, Levante and Poniente Beaches in Benidorm, Barceloneta, Nova Icaria, and Bogatell in Barcelona, and Malvarrosa Beach in Valencia. Those found to be breaking the law can face fines up to €2,000, equivalent to £1,700.

Greece

In December 2024, EU Health Ministers approved stricter anti-smoking measures in Greece, including a ban on vaping in outdoor spaces like beaches. If caught, fines can reach up to €500, equivalent to £420.

Italy

In Italy, laws differ by municipality. Bibione in Veneto introduced a beach smoking ban in 2019, which was later adopted by other coastal towns. Larger cities like Milan have implemented bans on vaping in crowded outdoor areas, with fines ranging from €40 (£33) to €240 (£200) for violators.

Portugal

Portugal has implemented vaping restrictions on beaches, but the rules can differ by region, so travellers should check local regulations before visiting.

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