European Beach Etiquette

As a travel advisor specializing in Europe, I like to advocate for cultural sensitivity. One thing that can be hard for Americans to get used to in Europe is their sense of propriety when it comes to beachwear. Here are some tips.

Generally speaking, Europeans wear business casual attire at work and in restaurants, swimsuits at the beach and athletic clothes at the gym (although occasionally you will see very smart, matching athletic clothes on the street).

Europeans Don’t Wear Beachwear Off the Beach

It is not appropriate to walk around beach towns or Mediterranean cities in a bathing suit. Off the beach, Europeans don’t wear shorts, swimsuits, bikinis or swim trunks and don’t appreciate tourists who do this. Although it is usually acceptable to go topless at the beach (regardless of gender), Europeans completely cover up once they step off the sand. Even European men don’t walk around beach towns shirtless.

Some places in Europe have actually banned the practice of walking around town in bathing suits and impose fines (Sorrento, Barcelona, Majorca, Hvar and others).

Europeans also do not wear flip flops off the beach. You won’t see Europeans wearing shorts or flip flops in a restaurant or on the street.

Wearing swimsuits and beachwear off the beach can cause discomfort and unease for locals in Europe and can even be seen as a sign of disrespect. You are guests and respecting local customs is appreciated.

A sign in Hvar, a Mediterranean island in Croatia

What to Wear at the Beach in Europe

It is usually acceptable for both men and women to go topless at the beach in Europe, but not all people do so don't feel pressured to join in. The custom also varies and is less common the more tourists there are. It is disrespectful for either men or women to walk off the beach without a shirt on, even on streets adjacent to or near beaches, or in restaurants on or near the beach.

Cover ups or clothes should be worn until you get to your towel or chair. Once there, you can strip down to your swimsuit. You should put your clothes or cover up back on before leaving the beach.

Other Tips About European Beaches

There are plenty of free beaches where you can set up your own towel or umbrella, and there are a lot of beach clubs.

Beach clubs generally charge a flat rate for the day (sometimes with a discount if you go in the afternoon). You can specify if you want a sun bed, lounge chair and/or umbrella, and the staff assigns you a spot.

Some beach clubs — especially in Italy and Greece — provide showers and changing rooms, as well as public bathrooms, where you can change into a swimsuit. Free beaches don’t always have facilities.

If you’re headed to a popular beach club, you should book a spot in advance. Because of their surge in popularity and increased travel to Europe, I now take care of this for clients, especially in France and Italy.

If you want to eat at a beach club restaurant, definitely book in advance. Some beach clubs are known for their food while the more simple ones typically serve at least drinks, sandwiches and ice cream.

In Italy, it’s perfectly acceptable (and quite common) to take your own food and drinks to the beach. In Greece, locals are more likely to take iced coffee and maybe a snack.

What are your experiences at European beaches? Any other tips for culturally sensitive travel in Europe? Send me a message! I’d love to hear.

—Daria Dimitroff, updated May 2025

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