European city to BAN sale of late night booze after ‘unacceptable’ drunk tourists
ONE popular city in Croatia is preparing to ban the sale of alcohol after 8PM this summer.
The reason for the ban is to stop rowdy tourists from disturbing locals after exhibiting bad, drunken behaviour.
The mayor of Split, Tomislav Šuta, announced this week that a strict ban of the sale of alcohol at shops in the city centre could be put in place as soon as this summer.
A proposal has been submitted to the Trade and Hospitality Act, to regulate the working hours for the sale of alcohol at shops and liquor stores within the city.
The mayor said: “We are moving towards limiting nighttime work in accordance with the new law, with the aim of introducing order.
“The City of Split will participate in the discussion and public consultation so that we can reach a decision that is important for our residents by consensus.”
There’s a high concentration of clubs, bars, and shops that are open all night in the city centre.
According to the mayor, the late night openings result in “situations” that “impair the safety and quality of life of tenants”.
He continued to say that the that scenes of drunken tourists in the heart of the city are unacceptable.
The mayor then added that extending the rules to other parts of Split has not been “ruled out” either.
The restrictions will apply to grocery and liquor shops between the hours of 8PM and 6AM, but not to clubs and restaurants.
So visitors can still enjoy drinks in licensed venues after 8PM.
Split is popular with Brits and is known for its high concentration of bars and clubs – it’s even been said to have some of the most diverse nightlife in Croatia.
Some of the most popular spots for drinking are around the Diocletian’s Palace and the Riva seafront promenade.
There are already bans on tourists drinking in public spaces within 100 metres of schools, kindergartens, and in the historic city centre – which can result in a fine of up to €300 (£261).
Other bans in Split that affect tourists include the ban on walking shirtless or in swimwear in places other than the beach.
If found sleeping in public places like parks and squares, there’s an on-the-spot fine between €150–€300 (£130 – £261).
There are other bans in Croatia in place. On Hvar, which is one of the country’s most famous “party islands”, there is a noise restriction.
During the summer, noise must be limited to 85 decibels – which is the equivalent of a food blender, a noisy restaurant or the cinema.
The hope is to make Hvar less of a party island and more attractive as a tourist destination for families.
Similarly, one of Europe’s prettiest cities is set to ban restaurants and bars from having outdoor tables.
For travelling this summer, here’s everything you need to know before you travel in 2026.