Countries and cities where going shirtless in public can get you fined

Going shirtless in public is perfectly acceptable in many countries, especially at beaches, swimming pools and parks. However, that doesn't mean it's allowed everywhere.

Several popular tourist destinations have public decency laws or local dress-code rules that prohibit people from walking shirtless in city streets, shopping areas, public transport hubs or historic centres.

In many cases, these are municipal rules rather than nationwide laws, meaning the restrictions apply only in specific cities or zones. If you're travelling abroad, it's worth checking the local regulations before stepping away from the beach.

SPAIN

Several Spanish cities have introduced rules against walking around shirtless or in swimwear away from beaches.

Places such as Barcelona, Palma and Mlaga can issue fines to people who ignore local dress codes in public streets.

FRANCE

Some seaside towns in France have adopted similar regulations. Tourist destinations including Les Sables d'Olonne, Arcachon and La Grande-Motte have local rules that allow authorities to fine people wearing only swimwear or going bare-chested in public areas away from the beach.

ITALY

Popular tourist cities such as Venice and Sorrento have introduced local rules that penalise visitors who walk through public streets wearing swimwear or with their upper body uncovered.

CROATIA

Cities including Dubrovnik, Split and Hvar have also enforced dress-code rules in tourist zones. Walking shirtless outside designated beach areas can result in penalties.

PORTUGAL

Some Portuguese municipalities, including Albufeira, have introduced regulations that restrict partial nudity and beachwear in public urban spaces as part of efforts to promote respectful behaviour in tourist areas.

JAPAN

Japan does not have a nationwide ban on going shirtless in public. However, broad public indecency laws mean that overly revealing behaviour in certain public settings may attract police attention or penalties depending on the circumstances and local enforcement.

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WHAT TRAVELLERS SHOULD KNOW

The key point is that these are mostly local public decency rules, not national bans. Beaches, pool areas and designated waterfronts usually have different standards from city centres or public transport.

Rules also vary between municipalities, so what is acceptable in one destination may lead to a fine in another. Before travelling, check local guidelines to avoid unexpected penalties.