logo
#

Latest news with #EpidaurusTheatre

Greece holiday warning as tourists face huge fines for wearing common item
Greece holiday warning as tourists face huge fines for wearing common item

Daily Mirror

timea day ago

  • Daily Mirror

Greece holiday warning as tourists face huge fines for wearing common item

Greece has put in place strict rules to preserve its ancient heritage and breathtaking landscapes, meaning holidaymakers jetting off should be aware of the laws Holidaymakers heading to the sun-drenched beaches of Greece should be aware of local laws that could result in hefty fines. Greek authorities are taking a firm stance on preserving their ancient heritage, imposing bans on removing pebbles and wearing high heels at historic sites. In an effort to protect its landscapes and cultural treasures, Greece has gradually introduced strict regulations. The Greeks take great care of their ancient stones, banning the wearing of high heels at historical attractions to prevent potential damage. As British families head to airports for their eagerly awaited holidays to destinations including Greece, Spain and Italy, they should be aware of the unusual rules in place. ‌ Since 2009, visitors to iconic Athens landmarks such as the Acropolis and the Epidaurus Theatre have been required to leave their stilettos behind, according to findings by Parkdean Resorts. ‌ While many travellers like to keep up their style while on holiday, the Greek Government introduced this law to prevent visitors from wearing shoes that could damage historical attractions. Those found wearing potentially damaging shoes at ancient sites could face a fine of up to €900 (£771), reports the Express. Greece has also introduced other regulations to limit the risks posed to its heritage and land. Tourists tempted to take pebbles as souvenirs from picturesque spots like Lalaria Beach in Skiathos might find themselves out of pocket by as much as £771. Spain is cracking down on tourism's toll with a series of eccentric rules, especially in Barcelona, where holidaygoers caught in beachwear away from sandy shores might be forking out between £86 and £171. Majorca is not far behind, with new penalties designed to deter "undesirable" behaviour along its popular coastlines. Even Benidorm is getting tough on fun in the sun, as sandcastle builders on Levante beach could end up shelling out as much as £129 if they lack a permit. The fines don't stop there - smoking, kipping or using soap products on Benidorm's beaches could hit tourists' wallets even harder.

Brits in Greece warned of strict dress code with £771 fines for rule-breakers
Brits in Greece warned of strict dress code with £771 fines for rule-breakers

Daily Mirror

time10-06-2025

  • Daily Mirror

Brits in Greece warned of strict dress code with £771 fines for rule-breakers

Brits planning Greece summer holidays may want to double check the dress code rules before packing their bag - or risk being turned away at major hotspots Brits heading on Greece holidays this summer may want to double check their suitcase, due to a strict dress code rule that applies at some of the country's biggest hotspots. That's because there are certain types of footwear that have been banned at plenty of attractions so you could risk being turned away if you're out and about sightseeing - or even face a fine of around 900 euros (£771). ‌ Since 2009, high heels have been a no-go at the country's ancient monuments as part of preservation efforts, including huge tourist hotspots like the Acropolis in Athens. In fact, a statement on the iconic landmark's website explains: "Most types of shoes are allowed at the Acropolis, except for high heels that have been forbidden in 2009 at all of Greece's ancient monuments. The ban was put in in place due to the damage that the sharp soles were adding to Greece's ancient sites." ‌ While most people will don the likes of trainers or other comfortable shoes for a day of sightseeing, if you are someone who braves heels, it's worth noting that you won't be allowed to enter the attraction unless you have a change of shoes with you. As for the fines, these tend to be aimed at those who actively flout the rules - for example if someone changed back into heels once they'd entered the monuments. Travel insiders at insurance firm recently reminded Brits of the rules, adding: "In Greece, wearing high heels is prohibited at certain historic sites, including famous attractions like the Acropolis and the Epidaurus Theatre. This rule helps protect delicate surfaces from erosion and cracking. Sitting on ancient monuments is also discouraged out of respect for preservation efforts." It's not the only dress code rule that Brits need to be aware of this summer. For those planning holidays to the likes of Spain and Italy, you may want to pack an extra beach cover up. That's because certain holiday hotspots have rules in place that ban tourists from wearing swimwear away from the beach, with fines of up to €500 for rule-breakers. In Sorrento, Italy, for example the ban has been in place since 2022. The mayor at the time explained the crackdown came because too many tourists were walking around the town in bikinis or topless, and causing unease with locals. They added at the time: "The continuation of this situation, as well as causing discomfort and unease in the resident population and among visitors, could lead to a negative judgment on the quality of life in our town, with consequences for its image and for tourism." Of course if you're staying in a beachfront hotel or beach club and walking back in your swimwear from the shore to your room or cabana, you won't be fined while you're on property. The rules are to deter people who were leaving public beaches and then heading to restaurants or wandering around the shops without a cover-up.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store