Montenegro and Croatia tighten swimwear bans in tourist parks and historic centers

In the coastal town of Herceg Novi, Montenegro, municipal police erected information boards on 16 July in the Titova Villa park. The signs, citing the local ordinance on communal order, forbid walking or lingering in swimwear or without proper clothing on public green spaces, and ban activities such as sun‑bathing, setting up beach furniture, grilling or laying on the grass. Police warned tourists that the new rules, in place for the summer season, will be enforced with fines.

A similar effort is underway in Zadar, Croatia, where new warning signs have been posted at the entrances to the historic old town. The signs remind visitors of a four‑year‑old regulation that penalises “inappropriate dressing” – specifically entering the city centre in swimwear. Fines are set at €132 for violations, with comparable penalties in Split (€150) and higher rates in Hvar (€500‑€600). Local residents argue the measures are needed for public decency, especially in front of children.

Both municipalities aim to regulate tourist attire in public areas to preserve local standards and protect green or historic spaces from misuse.