Tourist taxes in France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Croatia, Greece, Slovenia, Hungary, Czech Republic, Germany, Austria, Belgium, Netherlands, and Switzerland astonish travelers across Europe.

Reports suggest Chancellor Rachel Reeves is considering implementing a new tourist tax in the UK to bolster public finances. While the concept may be novel domestically, tourist taxes are a longstanding feature across Europe, with many travelers already familiar with such fees.

As UK tourists prepare for European adventures in 2025, they face an increasing array of charges, from accommodation levies to upcoming EU entry regulations. Let’s dive into the countries applying these taxes and explore the broader financial implications for travelers.

Tourist Taxes Across Europe

France

France levies a “taxe de séjour,” applicable to hotels, campsites, and holiday accommodations. Rates are determined locally and range from €0.20 to €4.20 per person, per day.

Italy

Tourist taxes vary widely across Italy’s regions. Fees are generally €1–€5 per day, but certain cities like Rome charge up to €7. Florence reduces fees for B&B stays, and Venice has introduced an additional €5 entry fee for peak times.

Spain

Spain’s tourist taxes are concentrated in Catalonia and the Balearic Islands. Rates vary by season and accommodation type, with Barcelona charging up to €4 per night for five-star hotels. In contrast, Mogán in Gran Canaria charges a modest €0.15 daily.

Portugal

Portugal applies a tax of €1–€2 per person, per night, depending on location and season. Children are exempt, and charges are capped after seven nights.

Croatia

Tourist taxes in Croatia average €1 per day, though rates depend on location and season, with discounts available for younger visitors.

Greece

Greece’s “climate tax” starts at €1.50 per night and can reach €15 during peak seasons. Cruise passengers arriving in popular destinations like Santorini face a €20 port fee.

Slovenia

A combined “tourist tax” and “promotional tax” equates to roughly €3 per day.

Hungary

Budapest adds a 4% surcharge to nightly accommodation costs.

Czech Republic

Prague charges CZK 50 (about £1.60) per night for up to 10 nights. Longer stays incur lower fees.

Germany

Tourist taxes in Berlin, Frankfurt, and Hamburg average 5% of accommodation costs, while Munich exempts travelers from such charges.

Austria

Austria applies a “Beherbergungsbeiträge,” a levy of 3.2% on accommodation costs, including hotels and campsites.

Belgium

In cities like Antwerp and Bruges, tourist taxes are flat fees, while Brussels adjusts rates based on accommodation size and rating.

Netherlands

Amsterdam enforces one of Europe’s highest tourist taxes, at 12.5% of the nightly rate, excluding VAT.

Switzerland

Swiss charges range from CHF 2–CHF 7 per night, varying by region and accommodation type.

Upcoming EU Entry Rules for UK Travelers

Entry/Exit System (EES)

The EU’s forthcoming Entry/Exit System (EES) will require UK travelers to the Schengen area to register biometric data like fingerprints and photos upon arrival. This system, expected to launch in 2025, will eliminate manual passport stamping and streamline border controls.

European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS)

Set to debut later in 2025, the ETIAS visa waiver system will require UK nationals to apply for travel authorization before entering Schengen countries. Visitors will submit personal details, trip information, and pay a €7 fee.

Backlash Against Tourism in Europe

European cities have witnessed growing protests against overtourism. In the Canary Islands, residents blame visitors for escalating housing costs. Lisbon has debated banning tourists from residential blocks, while Venice’s new entry fees aim to control surging crowds.

As the tourism industry booms, cities across the continent face pressure to balance economic benefits with the needs of local communities.

Financial Considerations for Travelers

Minimum Funds Requirement

Schengen zone countries can deny entry to travelers unable to demonstrate sufficient funds. Spain, for instance, has a “£97 a day rule,” while France requires proof of £55 per day.

Other Documentation

Non-EU visitors may also need to present return tickets and accommodation details at border controls.

Navigating Europe’s Tourist Tax Landscape in 2025

For UK travelers, 2025 heralds a shift in European travel, marked by new fees, stricter entry protocols, and evolving attitudes toward tourism. Staying informed about costs and requirements will ensure smoother adventures and help mitigate unexpected expenses.

The post France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Greece, Slovenia, Hungary, Czech Republic, Germany, Austria, Netherlands, Switzerland And More Travelers Must Pay Astonishing Tourist Taxes In Europe appeared first on Travel And Tour World.