Many holidaymakers who travel to sunny destinations like Spain often enjoy dining outdoors, basking in the sun while indulging in a refreshing beer and tapas. However, this summer brings new restrictions that may impact this experience, especially for Brits with upcoming trips in May 2026.
The recent amendment to the National Labour Agreement for the Hospitality Sector (ALEH) requires bars and restaurants to close their terrace areas during extreme weather conditions to protect workers’ health. When Spain issues orange or red weather alerts due to high temperatures, businesses with outdoor terraces must either limit or halt outdoor operations but can continue serving customers indoors. Additionally, these establishments must have adequate cooling systems indoors or adjust staff working hours to mitigate the heat’s effects.
Travelers heading to Spain or its islands in May may find their dining options affected by these regulations due to the anticipated return of El Niño, a weather pattern that raises temperatures and often triggers red weather alerts across Spain. While the forecast is still being assessed, reports from the World Meteorological Organization suggest a potentially intense event this year, with exceptionally hot weather expected between May and July.
Businesses failing to comply with the new regulations, such as requiring staff to work outdoors during a red alert, could face fines exceeding €50,000 (approximately £43,000) from the country’s Labor and Social Security Inspectorate.
Apart from changes in outdoor dining, travelers landing at Spanish and other EU airports now must utilize the EU Entry/Exit System (EES), causing delays at some busier airports. Various Spanish cities, including Vigo and Barcelona, are implementing measures like tourist taxes and cruise ship redirection to manage overtourism and overcrowding.
Furthermore, Spain has existing rules for British tourists to follow, including restrictions on vaping and smoking in public areas, regulations on driving footwear, and prohibitions on going shirtless in certain beach resorts.