While taxes and fees on travel are nothing new, many destinations are increasingly implementing or increasing “tourist taxes” to generate revenue and manage the impact of tourism. These fees can be added to hotel bills, visa applications, or even airfare, making it important for travelers to be aware of them and factor them into their budgets.
New Entry Fees
- United Kingdom: Starting in January 2025, travelers from visa-exempt countries, including the US, Canada, and Australia, will need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) at a cost of £10 (about $10.40 USD).
- European Union: The EU is also planning to introduce a similar system called ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) in 2025, with an application fee of 7 euros (about $7.28 USD).
Local Tourist Taxes in Europe
Many European destinations already have tourist taxes in place, and more are being considered. Here are some notable examples:
- Spain: Tourist taxes are common throughout Spain, with varying fees depending on the location and type of accommodation. Barcelona, for instance, has both a city tax and an accommodation tax, while cruise passengers may also face entry fees.
- Portugal: Over 25 municipalities in Portugal have implemented tourist taxes, including Lisbon and Madeira.
- Italy: Venice charges a fee for daytime visitors during peak season, and Rome has a tourist tax that varies by accommodation type.
- Greece: Greece will increase its visitor fee in 2025, with higher rates during peak season. Cruise passengers may also face additional charges depending on their destination.
- Netherlands: Amsterdam has a tourist tax based on overnight rates and a separate fee for cruise ship passengers.
- Iceland: A small fee is added to hotel bills and campsite stays, with a higher fee for cruise ship passengers.
Tourist Taxes Around the World
Tourist taxes are not limited to Europe. Many other destinations have implemented similar fees, including:
- Bali, Indonesia: A new tourist tax of around $10 per person was introduced in 2024.
- Maldives: The “Green Tax” will increase to $12 per day in 2025.
- Thailand: A one-time fee is charged for travelers arriving by air, land, or water.
- Buenos Aires, Argentina: Hotels charge a nightly fee for foreign tourists.
- Quintana Roo, Mexico: Popular tourist destinations in Mexico, such as Cancun and Tulum, have a one-time entry fee in addition to hotel taxes.
Planning for Tourist Taxes
As tourist taxes become more prevalent, it’s essential for travelers to be aware of these fees and factor them into their travel budgets. Researching potential tourist taxes at your destination can help avoid surprises and ensure a smoother travel experience.