Porto Cracks Down on Public Drinking with New Alcohol Restrictions

New regulations regarding alcohol consumption have been implemented in Porto, Portugal, a popular holiday destination. These changes, which came into effect on Wednesday, aim to reduce public drinking within the city. A designated "containment zone" has been established in Porto, encompassing the entire downtown area, including the nightlife hub of Rua de Galeria de Paris.

Within this zone, the sale of alcohol is prohibited in various establishments between 9 am and 8 pm. This includes supermarkets, convenience stores, wine sellers, and souvenir shops. However, patrons can still purchase alcoholic beverages during these hours at nightclubs, cafes, bars, and restaurants.

The new rules are intended to address the "bottellon" culture, a practice where people gather in public spaces to drink alcohol, rather than visiting bars or restaurants. This custom, originating in Spain, has gained popularity in Portugal, leading to concerns about disruptive behavior. Authorities in Porto have expressed worries about the negative impact of these gatherings on public order and urban security. Violations of the new regulations could result in immediate closure of the offending establishments.

These stricter measures are part of a broader trend in the region. Similar restrictions have been introduced in Majorca, Spain, and British tourists are now warned about potential fines for public drinking and anti-social behavior. The Spanish authorities are actively working to curb rowdy behavior associated with alcohol consumption.