Discover 25 Countries Where Tourists Must Pay Extra Fees and Taxes

Planning a trip abroad? Don’t get surprised by unexpected charges! Tourist taxes are becoming increasingly common around the world. While it might seem like an inconvenience, these taxes contribute to maintaining tourism infrastructure and preserving natural resources in popular destinations.

Let’s delve into the countries where you’ll pay a little extra to explore.

Tourist Taxes Around the World

This guide breaks down tourist taxes by country, explaining where they apply, how much they cost, and how to factor them into your travel budget. From Europe’s sky-high rates to Asia’s flat fees, we’ve got you covered.

Discover how to minimize the impact of tourist taxes and unlock the best destinations for budget-conscious travellers.

1. Austria

Visitors to this scenic European nation pay a nightly accommodation tax that varies by province. Expect an additional 3.2% on your hotel bill in popular cities like Vienna and Salzburg.

2. Belgium

Brussels levies a tourist tax that depends on the size and rating of your hotel, reaching up to €7.50 (US$8.17) per night. Rates differ across Belgian cities, so it pays to research before booking.

3. Bhutan

The “Land of the Thunder Dragon” lives up to its name with a substantial US$100 daily tourist tax. It is worth mentioning here that the fee was earlier $200, which was reduced to $100 in 2023. This fee funds sustainable development projects and helps preserve Bhutan’s breathtaking environment.

4. Bulgaria

Depending on the municipality you visit, expect a tourist tax between 0.20 lev to 3 lev (US$0.11 to $1.67) per night. Consider staying in smaller towns or coastal villages for potentially lower taxes.

5. Caribbean Islands

A tourist tax is a standard feature in most Caribbean paradises, with prices varying by island. Some islands include it in the advertised hotel rate, while others charge it upon check-in. Be sure to inquire beforehand.

6. Croatia

Relaxing on the stunning Croatian coast comes with a variable tourist tax depending on the season and location. It generally sits around €1.33 (US$1.45) per night, but research your specific destination for exact figures.

7. Czech Republic

While Prague might have a tourist tax of around CZK50 (US$1.97) per night, explore beyond the capital city for a more budget-friendly experience. Smaller towns and villages in the Czech Republic often have lower or no tourist taxes.

8. France

Cities like Paris and Nice levy a “taxe de séjour” added to your hotel bill to maintain tourism infrastructure. Consider staying in charming French towns outside major hubs to potentially avoid this tax.

9. Germany

In German cities like Frankfurt, Hamburg, and Berlin, a combination of “culture tax” and “bed tax” adds around 5% to your hotel bill.

10. Greece

The amount you pay depends on the size and standard of your accommodation in Greece. Expect to pay around €4 (US$4.36) per night, but this can vary. Consider staying in smaller Greek islands for potentially lower taxes.

11. Hungary

Budapest, Hungary’s vibrant capital, charges an additional 4% nightly tax on your room rate. Consider alternative accommodation options like hostels or guesthouses, which typically have lower taxes compared to luxury hotels.

12. Iceland

To manage the surge in tourist arrivals, Iceland reinstated a US$4.36 per night tourist tax in January 2024. This fee helps preserve Iceland’s pristine natural beauty.

13. Indonesia

Entering Bali in February 2024 comes with a US$9.59 entry fee on top of any accommodation taxes.

14. Italy

Tourist tax varies across Italy. In Rome, it ranges from €3 to €7 (US$3.40 to $7.94) per night, and Venice even charges day-trippers €5 ($5.40) during peak season!

15. Japan

International visitors pay a 1,000 yen (US$9.25) departure tax when leaving Japan. To minimize the impact, some airlines might include this tax in the ticket price. Be sure to check with your carrier beforehand.

16. Malaysia

A flat tourist tax of US$4.35 applies to each night of your stay in Malaysia. This makes budgeting a bit easier as the tax remains consistent throughout the country.

17. Netherlands

Amsterdam boasts one of Europe’s highest tourist taxes, with a hefty 12.5% overnight levy. Cruise ship visitors face an additional €14 (US$15.26) per day.

18. New Zealand

The International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) costs US$23.94 for travellers visiting New Zealand, helping to conserve the country’s stunning natural beauty.

19. Portugal

This budget-friendly destination offers a low €2 (US$2.18) per night tourist tax applicable to those over 13, in cities like Lisbon and Porto.

20. Romania

Bucharest charges 1% of your hotel room rate, with additional city and rescue taxes in specific locations. While there might be some additional taxes in certain areas, Romania offers a budget-friendly travel experience overall.

21. Slovenia

Tourist tax depends on location and hotel rating in Slovenia. Larger cities and resorts like Ljubljana and Bled have a higher levy, around €3 (US$3.40) per night.

22. Spain

Several Spanish cities, including Barcelona, have recently increased their tourist tax to €4 (US$4.54) per night. While some cities have increased their tourist tax, Spain remains a popular choice for travellers seeking a taste of European culture and history.

23. Switzerland

Similar to other European destinations, Switzerland’s tourist tax varies by location. A common rate is 2.50 Swiss francs (US$2.50) per night

24. Thailand

Since April 2022, a 300 baht (US$8.44) tourist tax has been added to flight tickets for international visitors to Thailand. Factor in the flight tax when budgeting for your Thai adventure.

25. USA

Several US states, like California and Texas, have occupancy taxes levied when booking accommodation. Houston holds the record for the highest hotel tax in the country at 17%. Research the specific occupancy tax rates for the US state and city you plan to visit.

Tips to Minimize Tourist Taxes

1. Seek Out Smaller Towns and Villages: Tourist taxes often concentrate in major cities and popular tourist hubs. Explore charming towns and villages outside the usual tourist trail. They might offer a more authentic experience and potentially lower or nonexistent tourist taxes.

2. Consider Alternative Accommodations: While luxury hotels often include hefty tourist taxes, explore alternative options like hostels, guesthouses, or vacation rentals. These accommodations might have lower taxes or be exempt altogether.

3. Time Your Trip Strategically: Some destinations have variable tourist taxes depending on the season. If flexibility allows, consider travelling during shoulder seasons (spring and fall) when tourist taxes tend to be lower.

4. Embrace Day Trips: If a city charges a hefty tourist tax for overnight stays, consider exploring it as a day trip from a nearby town with lower taxes. This allows you to experience the city’s highlights without incurring the nightly tax burden.

Conclusion

In conclusion, exploring the world is undoubtedly an enriching experience, but it’s essential to be aware of the additional fees and taxes that may accompany your travels. From bustling cities to serene landscapes, these 25 countries each have their own unique charges for tourists. By understanding these costs upfront, you can better prepare for your adventures and ensure a smoother journey ahead.