8 Travel Destinations That Could Fine You for Bad Behaviour

Travelling to new destinations is always an exciting experience. However, it comes with the responsibility of respecting local customs and laws. Many popular tourist hotspots have introduced hefty fines for behaviours that may be considered acceptable elsewhere. Here are some popular travel destinations that could fine you for bad behaviour, and in severe cases, even land you in jail.

Also read: 7 Bizarre Travel Rules You Need to Know Before Going to These Places

1. Bali, Indonesia – disrespecting sacred sites

Bali is famous for its stunning temples and vibrant cultural heritage. However, disrespecting these sacred sites can result in serious consequences. Tourists have been fined for wearing inappropriate clothing at religious sites, climbing on temple structures, and making offensive gestures. Additionally, taking disrespectful photos at holy places by posing provocatively is also not allowed.

• Other Consequences: Possible deportation for serious offences

2. Dubrovnik, Croatia – eating and drinking in historic areas

Dubrovnik is a UNESCO-listed Old Town with strict measures to preserve its cultural heritage. Tourists caught eating or drinking on historic steps can face fines. Leaving food waste behind, causing obstruction in public spaces, or ignoring designated areas for food consumption are also considered offences.

As part of the ongoing Respect the City campaign, tourists are given rules and guidelines on acceptable behaviour. These include minimizing noise pollution by carrying suitcases instead of wheeling them and maintaining clean and tidy public spaces. Policemen actively patrol to issue such warnings to unruly tourists.

• Fine: If classified as a public order disturbance, fines can go up to 4,000 euros (S$5629).

3. Spain – wearing swimwear outside beach areas

Spain, particularly cities like Barcelona and Mallorca, has cracked down on tourists wearing swimwear outside designated beach areas. Walking shirtless or in a bikini on public streets is considered disrespectful and could result in a fine. The law also extends to wearing inappropriate attire in city centres and around cultural landmarks.

• Fine: Up to 500 euros (S$704)

4. Dubai, UAE – public displays of affection

Dubai is known for its strict laws governing public behaviour. Holding hands is generally acceptable, but kissing or hugging in public—even between married couples—can lead to severe fines. Engaging in lewd behaviour, inappropriate gestures, or excessive public affection can also potentially lead to legal consequences.

• Fine: Up to AED 50,000 (S$18,445)
• Other Consequences: Possible jail time or deportation

5. Venice, Italy – sitting on historic steps and swimming in canals

Venice has taken measures to protect its fragile infrastructure. Sitting on historic bridges or steps in prohibited areas can get you fined. It is also forbidden to take a swim in the canals. Additionally, feeding pigeons in Piazza San Marco and engaging in disruptive tourist behaviour can also result in fines.

• Fine for sitting on the Spanish steps: Up to 400 euros (S$563)
• Fine for swimming in canals: Up to 500 euros (S$703)

6. Amsterdam, Netherlands – public urination and disorderly conduct

Amsterdam has long been a favourite for partygoers, but authorities are cracking down on bad behaviour. Hefty fines will be handed out for public disturbances such as public urination and excessive drunkenness. Additionally, consuming alcohol outside designated areas, vandalizing property, or disturbing residents can also result in penalties.

• Fine for public urination, noise pollution or littering: 150 euros (S$211)

7. Rome, Italy – damaging landmarks and eating near fountains

Rome’s world-famous historical sites have steep fines to punish vandals. Penalties will be handed out to tourists who carve their initials into the Colosseum or climb on ancient ruins. Apart from vandalism, other illegal acts punishable with fines include eating near historic fountains or washing feet in public water sources.

• Fine for vandalizing landmarks: Up to 60,000 euros (S$84,407)
• Fine for eating near fountains: Up to 450 euros (S$563)

Also read: The Iconic Trevi Fountain in Rome Reopens After Renovations with New Rules for Visitors

8. Thailand – vaping and littering on beaches

Thailand has banned e-cigarettes. Tourists caught vaping could face serious fines or even jail time. Other fines for bad behaviour include but are not limited to littering on protected beaches, such as those in Phuket, or smoking in non-smoking zones.

• Fine for vaping: Up to THB 30,000 (S$1208)
• Fine for littering on beaches: Up to THB 500 (S$20)

Travel Smart, Avoid Fines

Also read: 8 New Japan Travel Tips in 2025 You Need to Know

Before you travel, take time to research local laws and customs. What may seem harmless in your home country could be a serious offence elsewhere. By respecting local cultures and regulations, you can ensure a hassle-free trip without any unexpected fines ruining your vacation!