**British Travellers Warned: France to Enforce Strict New Vaping Ban from July**
British holidaymakers preparing to escape to European beaches this summer are being urged to familiarise themselves with the latest rules on vaping, as a string of popular holiday destinations gear up to enforce stringent new restrictions. France, in particular, is set to introduce a new law from 1 July 2025 which will prohibit vaping outdoors in many public spaces—including parks, beaches, and sports grounds—where it is currently allowed in the UK.
Recent research from Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) estimates that nearly 5.6 million people in Great Britain are vapers, with nearly 90% using e-cigarettes in an attempt to quit smoking or already having given up cigarettes. As vaping remains a legal and popular smoking cessation tool in the UK, many are at risk of unwittingly breaking laws abroad that carry severe penalties.
For those travelling to France, ignorance of the new rules could prove costly. The legislation, extending previous smoking bans, will outlaw both smoking and vaping in outdoor areas frequented by young people, such as playgrounds, school grounds, and bus shelters, alongside public beaches. Tourists and locals alike caught flouting the law face on-the-spot fines of up to €135 (circa £115)—a change that could easily catch out the unprepared.
And France is not alone. Across southern Europe, other beloved hotspots have also tightened restrictions on vaping and smoking tobacco in public in recent years. In Spain, local laws frequently equate vaping with traditional smoking, and the list of smoke-free zones continues to expand. In 2024, Spain’s medical authorities introduced further measures to protect public spaces, which explicitly include restaurant terraces and a growing number of beaches.
Amongst the Spanish beaches most affected are the likes of L’Albir in Alicante, Benidorm’s Levante and Poniente, as well as several coastal spots in Barcelona and Valencia. The fines for breaking these regulations can reach a substantial €2,000 (£1,700), underscoring the seriousness with which authorities now treat public vaping.
Meanwhile, Greece has joined the movement towards tougher regulations. Late in 2024, the country’s officials moved to ban vaping as well as smoking in a raft of outdoor spaces, such as beaches and parks, punishable by penalties of up to €500 (£420). Italy has adopted a patchwork approach, with individual local councils introducing their own policies. For instance, Bibione led the way in 2019 by prohibiting smoking on its beaches, a trend that has since spread to other resorts and major cities such as Milan, where vaping in crowded outdoor areas can result in fines ranging from €40 (£33) to €240 (£200).
Portugal, too, has adopted restrictions, though these can vary from region to region, so it is essential for visitors to consult local guidelines prior to departure. A lack of knowledge about these diverse laws could easily result in unwanted financial penalties or more serious issues.
Travel experts and vaping industry insiders are keen to stress the importance of research before jetting off. Dan Marchant, director of a leading UK vaping retailer, has advised would-be travellers to consult holiday providers or official foreign office sources to understand the specific regulations for their destination. “Rules change rapidly,” he explained, “and many countries not only limit where you can vape, but also how devices and refills can be imported.”
Marchant further recommends that, where vaping is permitted, individuals should remain considerate of others, particularly in areas popular with families and children. Additionally, air travellers are reminded that e-cigarettes and their batteries must always be carried in hand luggage, not checked bags, to comply with safety regulations in flight.
In summary, as new regulations sweep across European holiday spots, British tourists are strongly advised to check the latest local laws before packing their bags and chargers. A quick look at official sites or a message to the local tourist board could save a great deal of inconvenience—and money—during a long-awaited getaway.
As continental countries ramp up their efforts to create cleaner, smoke-free environments in public spaces, the responsibility lies with tourists to ensure their habits abroad align with local expectations. Failure to do so could see a relaxing holiday marred by unintended brushes with the law.