Walking Shirtless in France? Tourists Face €150 Fines in Coastal Towns

New Dress Code Rules for Visitors in France

According to УНІАН — Туризм: French resort towns are cracking down on tourists who walk through city streets without wearing a shirt or appropriate top. Offenders-including men with bare chests and women in bikinis-can be fined up to €150. These restrictions are being introduced at the municipal level by local authorities.

The southern coastal town of Narbonne has already enacted a ban that will remain in effect through the end of September. Violators there face fines of up to €150, with police monitoring compliance. Mayor Bertrand Malquier reported that 15 people have already been penalized under the new rules. He emphasized the decision aims to

“preserve public tranquility, respect for the environment, and the attractiveness of the city center during the summer season”

.

Other Cities Tighten Regulations

In the seaside town of Deauville, located on the Côte Fleurie, the fine for similar violations has been raised from €17 to €150. Arcachon and Les Sables-d'Olonne, both on France's Atlantic coast, are also enforcing fines of up to €150. Officials in Narbonne note that

“certain types of clothing suitable for beaches and swimming areas are not necessarily appropriate on streets, squares, or in historic districts of the city”

.

Mayor Malquier added: “First and foremost, this is not about banning tourists or restricting personal freedom. Narbonne is a welcoming Mediterranean city. This decision is simply based on common sense and respect for public space. We have a beautiful beach where people can dress as they please, but when you enter the city center, we believe a minimum standard of clothing should be reasonable.”

These new regulations, which prohibit beach attire in urban areas, encourage visitors to adopt a more suitable style of dress while strolling through town. The measures may shift tourist behavior and help improve the overall appearance and atmosphere of these destinations-key factors for local economies that rely on tourism. However, how travelers react to these restrictions remains to be seen, as their loyalty to the region could be affected by the stricter rules.