When vacationing in sunny destinations like Spain, many travelers delight in dining outdoors during lunch or dinner, basking in the sun while relishing a refreshing beer and tapas.
However, this summer, new regulations could disrupt the experience of enjoying al fresco meals, particularly for British travelers with upcoming trips in May 2026.
A recent adjustment to the National Labour Agreement for the Hospitality Sector (ALEH), which safeguards workers like waitstaff, stipulates that during severe weather conditions, bars and restaurants must close their outdoor terrace areas for health and safety reasons.
As reported by the Majorca Daily News, when Spain issues orange or red weather alerts due to high temperatures, establishments with outdoor seating will be compelled to scale back or halt outdoor operations but can continue serving customers indoors. They must also ensure adequate cooling systems indoors or adjust staff schedules to mitigate heat-related risks.
Travelers from the UK planning trips to Spain or its islands in May may encounter limitations in their dining options due to these new directives. The impending return of El Niño, a weather phenomenon causing elevated temperatures globally every few years, is anticipated next month, potentially triggering red weather alerts throughout Spain.
While the forecast is still being assessed, information from the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) indicates a possibility of a ‘severe event’ this year, leading to particularly hot weather from May to July.
Businesses failing to adhere to the new regulations, such as requiring staff to work outdoors during a red alert, could face fines exceeding €50,000 (approximately £43,000) imposed by the country’s Labor and Social Security Inspectorate.
The changes for British tourists this summer extend beyond limited outdoor dining. Travelers arriving at Spanish and other EU airports will now have to utilize the EU Entry/Exit System (EES), reportedly causing delays at some of the busier airports.
Several Spanish cities, like Vigo, are introducing tourist taxes to manage the impact of overtourism, while Barcelona is redirecting cruise ships to a