After a very busy travel year in 2023, it’s important to stay in the know on the latest travel news if you plan to continue sightseeing in 2024. One facet of travel you might have never considered before is a little thing called a tourist tax. So what really is a tourist tax and who will it affect in 2024? Read on to find out.
What is a tourist tax?
A tourist tax is a visitor fee for entering certain cities. The government charge can sometimes go unnoticed, as it can be indirectly included with airfare or accommodation stays.
Why does a tourist tax exist?
The idea of a tourist tax is to combat overtourism which can be damaging to cities via pollution, damages, etc.
What do cities use a tourist tax for?
Funds that come from a tourist tax generate revenue to typically improve the city’s tourism industry, be it through infrastructure or services.
Which cities are implementing a tourist tax in 2024?
Barcelona (increasing current tourist tax), Valencia, Bali (beginning in February), Olhão (recently introduced), and Venice have all already implemented a tourist tax or will begin to require one, be it officially introduced or through a pilot run.
Which countries already charge a tourist tax?
Austria, Belgium, Bhutan, Bulgaria, Caribbean Islands, Coratia, Greece, Czech Republic, France, USA, The Netherlands, and Switzerland are among some countries who already have a tourist tax in place.
Which cities currently have the highest tourist tax?
The tourist tax in Amsterdam is one of the highest in the world. In 2024, the city will increase their tourist tax for overnight visitors from 7% to 12.5%. Honolulu also makes the rankings with a 10.25% transient accommodations tax, in addition to a 3% surcharge.