New Tourist Taxes: Travelling to Europe to Become More Expensive in 2024

Planning a European adventure in 2024? Be prepared for new and increased tourist taxes in popular destinations like Paris, Amsterdam, Venice, and more. These levies are being introduced for diverse reasons, including the need to recover losses incurred during the COVID-19 pandemic and to generate additional income.

This article delves into the specific changes for popular destinations, allowing you to plan your European adventure with awareness and budget-savvy finesse.

Tourist Taxes in Popular European Destinations in 2024

1. Paris, France

A 200% Surge in Tourist Tax

Starting January 2024, tourists visiting Paris will encounter a substantial increase of nearly 200% in the tourist tax for hotel stays.

This decision has been approved by policymakers, aiming to address the economic repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic and enhance revenue streams. Consequently, visitors to the French capital in 2024 can anticipate a nightly fee for a double room at a premier hotel exceeding €11.

2. Amsterdam, Netherlands

A 12.5% Tax on Hotel Room Prices

Amsterdam, known for its picturesque canals, has opted to raise its tourist tax to 12.5% of the hotel room price. This tax applies to both cruise passengers and overnight visitors. As a result of this change, it is estimated that the tax for cruise-ship passengers will escalate from €8 to €11 per visitor, a daily charge.

3. Venice, Italy

Introducing a Daily Fee for Visitors

Venice is set to implement a daily fee for visitors, launching a pilot program during spring and summer weekends in 2024. This initiative is driven by the aim to manage the environmental impact of tourism and generate additional revenue for the city.

4. Valencia, Barcelona, and Madrid, Spain

Varied Tax Rates for Accommodation Stays

Valencia is gearing up to introduce a tourist tax in early 2024 for accommodation stays, ranging from €0.50 to €2 per night based on the type of lodging and duration. In Barcelona, the tourist tax, introduced in 2018, is set to increase from €3.25 to €3.70 in April 2024.

Similarly, Madrid is also contemplating a new tourist tax, although official confirmation for the new taxes is still pending.

5. United Kingdom

Introduction of Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)

In 2024, the United Kingdom is set to introduce the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). Visitors from the US, Australia, Canada, and Europe will be required to obtain permission to travel to British territories.

To acquire the ETA travellers will need to pay a fee of  £10 (€11.66), it is important to note that Failure to possess an ETA may result in fines.

6. Olhao, Faro, and Figueira da Foz, Portugal

Varied Tourist Taxes in Olhao, Faro, and Figueira da Foz

Popular tourist destination Olhao in Portugal will implement a €2 charge for visitors staying overnight between April and October, while off-peak visitors (November to March) will pay only half the price, i.e., €1 per night.

Faro imposes a tourist tax of €1.50 per person during the summer season (March to October), applicable for a maximum of seven nights, with exemptions for children under 12.

Figueira da Foz is set to introduce a municipal tourist tax, the cost of which will depend on the number of nights spent and the season of the visit. Overnight stays from October to March will cost €1.50 per night, while visits between April and September will incur a fee of €2 per night.

Planning Strategies for Cost-Conscious Travellers

As with any additional expense, consider these tips to navigate the evolving landscape:

• Plan your travel dates strategically: Opt for shoulder seasons to avoid peak pricing and potentially lower tourist taxes in some destinations.
• Research accommodation options: Boutique hotels and vacation rentals may offer competitive rates compared to high-end hotels with hefty added taxes.
• Utilize public transportation: Explore cities by tram, bus, or bicycle to save on expensive taxi fares.
• Take advantage of free activities: Immerse yourself in the local culture by partaking in free walking tours, visiting museums with complimentary days, or picnicking in beautiful parks.

With careful planning and awareness, you can still enjoy the magic of Europe in 2024, even with the introduction of new and amended tourist taxes.

Embrace the local charm, explore hidden gems, and savour the unique experiences each destination offers, and remember, sometimes a little extra planning can go a long way in ensuring a budget-friendly and unforgettable European adventure.