ENPalma’s Latest Tourist Warning: Buy Smart or Pay the Price
As summer arrives in Palma de Mallorca, so do new rules that might surprise even seasoned visitors. Starting May 24, 2025, anyone caught buying from unauthorized street vendors in public spaces — including beaches, plazas, and promenades — can now be fined up to €750.
This city ordinance isn’t just targeting sellers anymore. Now, tourists who buy that €5 pair of sunglasses or mojito on the beach are just as responsible — and potentially just as fined.
⚠️ Why This Law Exists – And What It Means for You
This is part of a larger push by Palma’s city government to clean up public spaces, reduce unfair competition, and protect local businesses. Officials point out that these street sellers often operate without licenses, don’t follow food safety laws, and aren’t paying taxes.
More importantly? The city says that tourists are unintentionally fueling the problem by buying from them. The logic is simple: no demand, no illegal supply. And while officials say they’ll start with “soft enforcement” in the first weeks, the fines are now technically active.
Not sure where to shop legally instead? Check out our full guide to shopping in Palma’s boutiques and markets.
👮 Where You’re Most Likely to Get Fined
Expect increased enforcement — including plainclothes officers — in these high-traffic areas:
- 📍 Playa de Palma
- 📍 Parc de la Mar
- 📍 Passeig del Born
- 📍 La Seu Cathedral surroundings
These are popular for both visitors and street vendors — which makes them the city’s focus for patrols. If someone is selling you drinks from a cooler, jewelry from a blanket, or food from a crate: walk away.
💶 That Mojito on the Beach? It Could Cost You €750
It might seem harmless — a cold beer or slice of watermelon handed to you while sunbathing. But under the new rules, it’s now a fineable offence. 🍉🍻
Palma’s leaders say they aren’t trying to “ruin anyone’s holiday,” but they are asking for more mindful tourism. If you’re looking for delicious Mallorcan food or authentic products, skip the blanket-sellers and explore our guides to:
🍷 Wine bars in Palma
🧺 Local markets
🌊 Beachfront restaurants & bars
🌱 Our Take: Support Palma the Right Way
At Palma Weekly, we love the spontaneous charm of this city — but we also support the people working hard to make it liveable year-round. That means respecting local laws, spending your euros where they make a difference, and keeping the beaches clean and safe. 🌍
So if someone tries to sell you something on the street or sand, just smile and say, “No, gracias.” Then head to one of Palma’s incredible neighborhood cafés or licensed food trucks instead.
✨ Final Thoughts
This new rule may sound strict, but it’s really about protecting the city’s culture, economy, and future. Buying from unlicensed sellers might feel like a bargain in the moment, but now it comes with a cost — both legally and ethically.
So shop smart. Be curious. Ask where your goods come from. And enjoy Palma knowing you’re doing it the right way. 💛
Planning a visit? Don’t miss our insider guides to:
📍 Best neighborhoods in Palma
🛏️ Where to stay
🌅 Things to do
