Spain set to introduce three drinker per evening limit for UK tourists

The new rules mean that guests who are staying in all-inclusive hotels have a limit of six drinks per day. But the drinks must also be spaced throughout the day - three in the day and three in the evening

All-inclusive resorts in Spain are cracking down on excessive drinking with a new "six-drink rule". Holidaymakers will now be limited to just six alcoholic beverages per day, split between three for lunch and three for dinner.

Christian Wolf, the CEO of CW Real Estate Ibiza, has weighed in on the matter. "Although binge drinking may be common practice in many countries, people in Spain like to take their time with drinking," he explained. He also pointed out that while tourists often arrive in Spain ready to let loose, they might not realise that binge drinking isn't as widely accepted.

Wolf commented on the potential benefits of the restriction: "It's important to enjoy yourself, but drinking to excess can lead to public disturbances, property damage, and strained relationships with the locals." He remains curious about the future impact of this policy, saying, "Time will tell if this rule will be effective, and if more establishments will enforce it or if it simply fizzles out.", reports Birmingham Live.

He further elaborated on the intention behind the rule: "This way they are not just drinking to get drunk, but to enjoy their time with their friends and family and have longevity throughout the night," The regulations, initially set in 2020, have been intensified in 2024 with additional measures such as restricted late-night alcohol sales in shops and increased control over boat parties.

Retailers selling alcohol are required to shut between 9.30pm and 8am. An ABTA spokesperson stated: "ABTA will continue to engage with the Balearic Islands Government, ABTA Members and other parties, to encourage clear communication and exchange of information, in order to ensure holidaymakers travelling to hotels in the designated areas enjoy a positive customer experience."

Those found guilty of drinking in a way that "disrupts coexistence, involves crowds or deteriorates the tranquility of the environment" could face fines ranging from €750 to €1,500 (£645 to £1,290).

It comes as a normally busy Spanish hotspot which is a favourite among tourists was said to be 'half empty' sparking fears for bar and restaurant owners. Magaluf is usually busy with holiday-makers at the beginning of June. But images taken at the end of May showed rows of sunbeds with no one occupying them on its beaches.

Bar operators in the Majorcan town also reported rows of empty tables outside its normally busy night spots. BirminghamLive reports people have recently marched through Palma, the capital of the island, calling for the government to introduce 'immediate measures' to tackle its housing emergency and overcrowding from tourists.