Spain's Six Drink Rule Explained

Spain has introduced new regulations limiting the consumption of alcohol at certain all-inclusive resorts in the Balearic Islands, particularly targeting areas known for excessive drunk and disorderly behaviour.

If you like a tipple, don't worry, no-one is asking you to go tee-total whilst on holiday. However, your definition of "all inclusive" may be subject to change at hotels in 4 Balearic resorts.

Here’s what you need to know about the new "six-drink rule":

Limit on Alcoholic Drinks:

• Guests at all-inclusive hotels in specific resorts in Majorca and Ibiza are limited to six alcoholic drinks per day.
  Specifically in:
  - Playa de Palma, Majorca
  - El Arenal, Majorca
  - Magaluf, Majorca
  - West End of San Antonio, Ibiza
• These drinks are distributed evenly, with three at lunch and three at dinner.
• Any additional drinks must be purchased separately​.

Additional Restrictions:

• Beyond the drink limit, the sale of alcohol in shops is banned between 9:30 PM and 8 AM.

• Activities promoting heavy drinking, such as pub crawls and happy hours, are also prohibited. Advertising for party boats is restricted, and new licenses for such excursions will not be issued​.

• There will also be new no-drinking zones implemented in the resorts, so keep your cocktails firmly within the bar's terrace!

These measures are part of a broader effort to promote more responsible tourism and reduce the negative impacts associated with alcohol-fueled tourism in these popular destinations. However, it's important to note that these rules do not apply to other regions such as the Canary Islands and Menorca, or even other Balearic resorts like Alcudia, where no such alcohol restrictions are in place​​. There's a possibility that the restrictions may only last a few years too, with plans to review in 2028.