A travel expert has urged holidaymakers to think twice before taking a dip in France, warning that a little-known swimming rule continues to catch many British tourists off guard.
With more than 6,000 public swimming pools across the country, France remains a popular destination for UK travellers, with an estimated 9 to 13 million Brits visiting each year. From romantic breaks in Paris to sun-soaked stays along the glamorous French Riviera, the country’s culture, cuisine and scenery hold undeniable appeal. However, according to travel expert Simon Hood, one strict health regulation could disrupt holiday plans for unsuspecting visitors.
Simon, executive director of John Mason International, says many British tourists are unaware of France’s long-standing rules around men’s swimwear at public pools. In most municipal swimming facilities, men are required to wear tight-fitting swimwear, such as Speedos or similarly fitted shorts. Those who fail to comply risk being denied entry or even asked to leave the pool entirely.
The regulation is believed to date back as far as 1903 and is enforced through local pool rules, known as règlement intérieur. Oversight comes from local authorities or the ARS, France’s regional health agencies. Loose-fitting swim shorts, popular among British holidaymakers, are typically banned in public pools in major cities including Paris, Lyon and Marseille.
Simon explained that while the rule may seem outdated or surprising, it is still taken seriously. “It might feel unusual to British visitors, but ignoring the regulation can result in being asked to leave the pool altogether. Some facilities do sell compliant swimwear on-site, but you could end up paying between €10 and €20, which is an avoidable expense if you plan ahead,” he said.
While many assume the rule is purely traditional, Simon notes it is rooted in hygiene concerns. Historically, it was common in France for people to walk around outdoors in their swimwear before heading to the pool, particularly in summer. This raised concerns about dirt and bacteria being brought into the water. Tight-fitting swimwear is seen as cleaner because it is typically worn only for swimming.
Holiday park operator Eurocamp also highlights the rule on its website, reassuring travellers that the restrictions usually apply only to pools, not beaches. The company explains that loose or baggy shorts are often prohibited due to hygiene issues, but rules can vary between locations.
Eurocamp adds that tighter swimwear tends to dry faster and absorb less water, reducing the risk of bacteria buildup. For those uncomfortable with traditional Speedos, fitted swimming shorts or “jammers” that sit above the knee are often acceptable alternatives.
There is little indication that the regulation will change anytime soon. In 2022, an attempt by Grenoble’s local authority to relax the rule was blocked by the French government.
Simon advises travellers to do their research before departure. “These rules exist for a reason. If tight swimwear isn’t for you, consider alternative pools or skip swimming altogether. Speedos might not be fashionable, but missing out on a pool day could be far worse.”
