Tourists could face surprise fines in Europe over flip-flops

Flip-flop fans in Spain, Italy and other parts of Europe are being warned that wearing flip-flops in the wrong place could lead to unexpected fines. 

European authorities have stepped up seasonal safety campaigns ahead of what hopes to be another busy holiday season. Some social media posts often claim flip-flops are “illegal” across southern Europe, but this isn’t the reality. In most cases, tourists are not fined for the footwear itself, but officials do believe it creates a safety risk.

In Spain, drivers can face fines of up to €200 if police decide their footwear affects safe control of the vehicle. Over in Italy, tourists hiking the famous Cinque Terre coastal trails have been warned they could receive penalties ranging from €50 to as much as a huge €2,500 for wearing flip-flops or unsuitable shoes on steep routes.

Spain’s DGT clarifies the driving rule

Spain’s Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) has repeatedly clarified that there is no specific national law banning flip-flops while driving. However, officers can still issue penalties under road safety regulations requiring drivers to maintain full control of their vehicle at all times. Traffic police may intervene if footwear appears to interfere with pedal control, reduce freedom of movement, slip beneath pedals, or affect reaction times. That means loose sandals, flip-flops, high heels and even driving barefoot could potentially become an issue if dangerous driving is observed or an accident occurs.

This warning is extra relevant for tourists hiring cars in the busier areas over the summer. 

Italy’s hiking fines are very real

Italy has taken a tougher approach, particularly in Cinque Terre National Park on the Ligurian coast. Authorities introduced the rules after repeated mountain rescue incidents involving tourists attempting steep cliffside trails in beach footwear. The warning is that open shoes such as flip-flops and sandals are unsuitable for the terrain and can result in substantial fines.

Cinque Terre’s hiking routes connect five beautiful villages and attract huge numbers of visitors every summer, mostly cruise passengers and day-trippers with many tourists who underestimate the difficulty of the trails because of the area’s beach-town image.

Why authorities are concerned

Safety experts say the issue is stability and control. Driving with loose footwear means they can slip off while braking, become trapped beneath pedals, or reduce precision during emergency manoeuvres. With the hikers, flip-flops increase the risk of slips on rocky terrain, twisted ankles, falls near steep edges, and emergency rescue situations.

Online travel forums prove that many tourists remain confused about how strictly the rules are enforced. Some Reddit users visiting Cinque Terre this year reported seeing checks on hiking trails, while others said enforcement appeared inconsistent.

What you should know for this summer

Tourists travelling to and through Europe are advised to keep proper driving shoes in the car, wear suitable trainers or hiking shoes on mountain trails, and check local safety guidance before visiting protected tourist areas.

Don’t spoil your holiday and get caught with a fine over something as simple as a flip flop.