With travel rebounding post-pandemic, popular destinations combat over tourism with tourist taxes. These levies have been implemented in some places in 2022 and continued in 2023. Such taxes, often included in tickets or hotel charges, are now widespread for travellers.

Barcelona's Tourist Tax to Experience Increment in 2023

The municipal government has revealed plans to raise the tourist tax in the city over the course of the next two years. This decision comes after a longstanding system of charging tourists both a regional tourist tax and an additional city-wide surcharge, in effect since 2012.

• First Increment on April 1, 2023

Commencing from April 1, 2023, Barcelona's municipal authorities have initiated the first phase of the tax increase by elevating the municipal fee from its previous rate. This fee is applicable to all visitors staying in officially designated tourist accommodations within the city.

• Second Increment Planned for April 1, 2024

In the following year, on April 1, 2024, the city plans to implement a second incremental adjustment to the tourist tax. At that time, the fee will further increase for eligible visitors staying in designated tourist accommodations.

• Tax Allocations Geared Towards City Infrastructure Enhancement

The revenue from the tourist tax adjustment in Barcelona is designated for infrastructure development and maintenance. It will fund projects such as road improvements, public bus service enhancements, and escalator maintenance to enhance the city's accessibility and overall infrastructure.

Valencia's Upcoming Tourist Tax in 2024

The city of Valencia has recently unveiled its plans to implement a tourist tax, affecting travellers who stay in various types of accommodations within the region. This tax will apply to a range of lodging options, including hotels, hostels, apartments, and campsites.

• Commencement in Late 2023 or Early 2024

Valencia's tourist tax is scheduled to be put into effect towards the conclusion of 2023 or in the early months of 2024. During this period, all visitors staying in the specified types of accommodations will be subject to the tax.

• Variable Charges Based on Accommodation Type

Travellers will be required to contribute to the tax, by paying a required amount each night of their stay. The specific amount payable depends on the type of accommodation they have selected, and this tax will be applicable for a maximum of seven consecutive nights.

• Funding Sustainable Tourism Development

According to regional authorities, the revenue generated through this tourist tax will be allocated to support the sustainable growth and development of Valencia's tourism sector. The funds collected will play a vital role in enhancing the region's tourism offerings while ensuring responsible and sustainable practices in the industry.

Olhão, Portugal Introduces Tourist Tax in 2023

Olhão, a picturesque fishing town located in Portugal and a popular tourist destination, has initiated the implementation of a tourist tax. Visitors to this charming town will be required to pay a required nightly fee during the period spanning from April to October.

• Seasonal Variations: Reduced Rate from November to March

In a bid to accommodate variations in tourism flows, Olhão has established a reduced tourist tax for visitors staying between the months of November and March. This seasonal adjustment aims to provide flexibility for tourists and local businesses.

• Exemptions for Children and a Capped Limit

Notably, the tourist tax in Olhão will not be applicable to children under the age of 16. Furthermore, the tax is capped at a maximum of five nights per trip, thus ensuring that extended stays remain economically viable for travellers.

• Enhancing the Local Environment

The revenue generated from this tourist tax is earmarked for efforts aimed at minimising the impact of tourism on Olhão's environment. Local authorities intend to use the funds to enhance cleanliness and security in this scenic town, thereby contributing to a more sustainable and enjoyable experience for both tourists and residents.

• Precedents in the Algarve Region

In the Algarve region, Faro and Vila Real de Santo António had already instituted their tourist taxes, aligning with the aim of local development and sustainability.

Thailand's Introduction of Tourist Fee in 2023

Thailand has announced the implementation of a tourist fee, amounting to 300 Baht. Originally scheduled to be enforced by the end of 2022, this initiative experienced delays due to uncertainties surrounding its execution.

• Postponement to September 2023 Following Airline Concerns

In response to concerns raised by airlines and the need for further clarity in the implementation process, the launch of the tourist fee has been postponed from the initial June target to September 2023. This delay is aimed at ensuring a smoother and more well-defined execution of the fee.

• Utilising the Fee for Tourist Welfare

The governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand explained that a portion of the collected fee will be dedicated to looking after the well-being of tourists. This provision is crucial, especially during instances when health insurance fails to provide adequate coverage for visitors, ensuring their safety and medical assistance if required.

• Financing the Enhancement of Tourist Attractions

Additionally, the revenue generated from the tourist fee will play a pivotal role in funding the development and improvement of key tourist attractions within Thailand. Iconic sites such as the Grand Palace in Bangkok will benefit from these investments, contributing to a more enriching and enjoyable experience for visitors exploring the country.

Venice to Introduce Day Tourist Fee in 2024

The city of Venice has emphasised that the tourist fee is not primarily intended to generate revenue. The proceeds from the fee will be directed towards services aimed at benefiting the local residents, such as essential maintenance, cleaning initiatives, and programs to reduce the living costs for Venice's inhabitants.

Additional Points

• The tourist fee is expected to help reduce tourism in Venice. Overtourism is a major problem in the city, and it has led to environmental damage, overcrowding, and increased costs of living for residents.

• The fee is also seen as a way to ensure that tourists contribute to the cost of maintaining and protecting the city. Venice is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it requires significant investment to preserve its unique heritage.

• The tourist fee is a controversial measure, but it has been supported by many Venetians. They believe that the fee is necessary to protect their city and way of life.

Introduction of Tourist Visa by the EU in 2024

Originally, the implementation of this visa scheme was intended for November 2023. However, the process has faced delays, primarily associated with the EU's new Entry/Exit System (EES). 

The EES is a digital system that will track the entry and exit of non-EU citizens into and out of the Schengen zone. It is still under development, and the EU needs to ensure that it is fully operational before implementing the tourist visa system.

Additional Points

• The EU tourist visa will be valid for 90 days within a 180-day period.
• Travellers will be able to apply for the visa online or at a local EU embassy or consulate.
• The EU has stated that the tourist visa is intended to improve security and reduce illegal immigration. However, some critics have argued that the visa will discourage tourism and harm the EU economy.

Tourist Fees in Various Countries

Numerous countries have established tourist fees, each serving distinct purposes. These fees are implemented for a range of reasons, including the management of tourist numbers to combat over tourism and as a form of sustainability tax to support tourism infrastructure and preserve natural resources.

Austria

Austria implements an overnight accommodation tax, with varying rates by province, such as 3.02 percent per person in cities like Vienna and Salzburg, calculated based on the hotel bill. Referred to as Tourismusgesetz and Beherbergungs Beiträge, these charges aim to support the maintenance of tourism facilities and the preservation of natural resources, enhancing the visitor experience.

Tourist Tax in Belgium

Belgium enforces a tourist tax per night, depending on the length of stay, applicable to various accommodations. This tax can be integrated into hotel room rates or presented separately, varying among hotels. Belgian cities like Antwerp and Bruges have fixed per-room rates, whereas Brussels calculates the tax based on hotel size and rating, resulting in varied charges for visitors based on their chosen lodgings.

Bhutan's Unique Tourist Fee

Bhutan imposes a relatively high daily tourist fee per person during the high season, with a reduced fee in the low season, setting it apart from many other countries. Notably, this fee provides comprehensive coverage, including accommodation, transportation, guided services, meals, and entrance fees to attractions, offering visitors an all-inclusive experience to enrich their exploration of Bhutan.

Bulgaria's Tourist Fee

In Bulgaria, a modest tourist fee is specific to overnight stays, typically not exceeding around €1.50, varying by region and hotel classification. Numerous Caribbean islands, including Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, the Bahamas, and more, impose tourist taxes.

Croatia's Summer Tourist Tax Increase in 2019

In 2019, Croatia implemented an increase in its tourist tax. However, this heightened rate is exclusively applicable during the peak summer season. During this period, visitors are required to pay approximately 10 kuna per person for each night of their stay.

Tourist Fee in the Czech Republic: Prague Exclusive

In the Czech Republic, the obligation to pay a tourist fee is limited to visitors of the capital city, Prague. This fee is notably modest per person, per night, and can be applied for up to 60 nights. Importantly, the tax is not imposed on individuals under the age of 18, making it an affordable and straightforward requirement for travellers to Prague.

France's Tourist Tax: "Taxe de Séjour"

In France, the "taxe de séjour" or tourist tax is typically included in hotel bills per person per night, varying by location. The Paris region has gained approval to increase its tourist tax by up to 200 percent starting in January 2024, impacting the cost for visitors staying in various accommodations, including hotels and Airbnbs.

Germany's "Culture Tax" and "Bed Tax"

Several German cities, such as Frankfurt, Hamburg, and Berlin, levy a "culture tax" (kulturförderabgabe) and a "bed tax" (bettensteuer) of approximately 5 percent on the hotel bill, contributing to cultural and tourism endeavours in these cities.

Greece's Tourist Tax: Star Ratings and Room Counts

Greece's tourist tax varies based on factors like the hotel's star rating or the number of rooms rented. The tax was initiated by the Greek Ministry of Tourism to aid in reducing national debt and promoting fiscal sustainability and development in the country.

Tourist Fees in Hungary: Budapest Exclusive

Hungary's tourist fees are exclusively applicable to visitors in its capital city, Budapest.

In Budapest, travellers are obligated to pay an additional fee amounting to 4 percent of the cost of their room for each night of their stay. This fee is designed to support tourism-related infrastructure and services within the city.

Tourist Taxes in Indonesia: Exclusive to Bali

Indonesia enforces tourist taxes exclusively on Bali, for international visitors, implemented in 2019. The tax revenue supports programs dedicated to preserving the environment and Balinese culture, aligning with Bali's focus on sustainable tourism and cultural heritage conservation.

Italy's Varied Tourist Taxes

Italy's tourist taxes differ by location, and Rome's rates per night, depending on the room type. Smaller Italian cities may also levy higher tourist tax rates, highlighting regional variations in this taxation practice. Venice was considering introducing its own tax in the summer of 2022.

Japan's Departure Tax

Japan has implemented a departure tax for visitors leaving the country. Travellers departing from Japan are required to pay a fee of 1,000 yen.

According to the official tourism website, this relatively modest departure tax plays a significant role in contributing to the country's economy, underscoring its importance in supporting various economic aspects related to tourism in Japan.

Malaysia's Flat-Rate Tourist Tax

In Malaysia, the tourist tax is uniformly applied as a flat rate, calculated for each night you spend in the country.

This fee is relatively modest. This simple and consistent approach makes it an accessible and straightforward requirement for visitors staying in Malaysia.

New Zealand's International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL)

New Zealand has established the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL), which is a mandatory requirement for many tourists, individuals on working holidays, and certain students and workers upon their arrival in the country. However, it's important to note that individuals from Australia are exempt from this levy. 

The IVL serves as a means to contribute to conservation and tourism efforts within New Zealand and supports various initiatives aimed at preserving the country's natural environment and enhancing the tourism experience for visitors. 

Amsterdam's Current Tax Rate

In the city of Amsterdam, the existing tourist tax, locally known as "toeristenbelasting," presently stands at 7 percent of the hotel room's cost. This tax applies to both land-based and waterborne tourists visiting the city.

Starting in 2024, this tax rate is set to see a significant rise, increasing to 12.5 percent. As a result, it will become the highest tourist tax rate in Europe. This heightened tax will be applicable to a broad spectrum of visitors, including those arriving by cruise and those opting for overnight stays, aligning with the Netherlands' financial objectives for the tourism sector.

Tourist Taxes in Portugal

Portugal enforces a modest tourist tax, which is levied on a per-person, per-night basis. This tax is only applicable to guests aged 13 and over. The typical fee currently applies in 13 out of Portugal's 308 municipalities, including prominent cities such as Porto, Lisbon, and Faro. Travellers are required to pay this tax during the first seven days of their stay.

Slovenia's tourist tax varies depending on the specific location and the rating of the hotel. In larger cities and popular resort towns such as Ljubljana and Bled, this tax tends to be slightly higher.

Tourist Tax in Switzerland

Switzerland implements a tourist tax with varying rates contingent on the specific location you are visiting. This tax is calculated on a per-person, per-night basis. Travellers should be aware that quotes for accommodation typically do not encompass the tourist tax; instead, it is itemised as a separate charge for clarity. It is worth noting that this tax is only applicable to stays lasting less than 40 days.

FAQS

What is the tourist tax situation in Barcelona for 2023 and 2024?

In 2023, Barcelona increased its municipal tourist fee , and another increase is planned for 2024, with the fee rising on April 1, 2024.

When will Valencia introduce a tourist tax, and who will be affected?

Valencia will introduce a tourist tax by the end of 2023 or early 2024, affecting travellers staying in all types of accommodations in the region. Visitors will pay depending on the chosen accommodation.

What is the tourist tax situation in Olhão, Portugal, in 2023?

Olhão, Portugal, started charging tourists a higher amount per night between April and October in 2023, reducing it to a lower price between November and March. The tax doesn't apply to children under 16.

What are the tourist taxes in Thailand for 2023 and 2024?

Thailand planned to introduce a tourist fee of 300 Baht by the end of 2022 but faced delays. It's now expected to be implemented in September 2023, aiming to support tourist welfare and development of tourist attractions.

What is the tourist tax situation in Venice in 2024?

Venice will begin charging tourists in 2024, with a 30-day trial period over spring and summer weekends. The exact dates are yet to be confirmed. The revenue from this tax will be used to support services for residents and enhance the local environment.

When does tourist tax apply in Austria, and how does it vary by location?

Austria imposes an overnight accommodation tax that varies by location. In Vienna and Salzburg, an additional 3.02 percent of the hotel bill per person is charged. The tax supports tourism and local infrastructure.

What are the tourist tax regulations in Valencia, Spain for 2024?

Valencia will introduce a tourist tax for travellers staying in various accommodations by the end of 2023 or early 2024. The tax amount ranges depending on the type of accommodation, for a maximum of seven nights.