Local officials in Catalonia have decided to raise the tourism tax substantially, meaning visitors to Barcelona will have to cough up more cash.
How much more tourists will have to pay depends on the type of accommodations they’ll be staying in. According to Reuters, earlier this month, Catalonia’s regional government approved doubling Barcelona’s nightly tourism tax on vacation rentals from €6.25 to €12.50. Beginning as soon as April 1, hotel guests will have to pay between €10 and €15 per night, with stays at higher-starred hotels taxed more. To compare, the current nightly tourist tax on hotel stays ranges from €5 to €7.50.
The source reported that Catalan authorities have received an increase in complaints from residents who believe overtourism and short-term vacation rentals are contributing to higher housing costs. Reuters also noted that, under the law approving the latest tourism tax increase, a quarter of the revenue will go towards addressing Barcelona’s housing crisis.
A major port city where cruises stop, the tourist tax for those visitors in Barcelona will remain €6 – for now.
What Else Is There To Know About Barcelona’s Increased Tourism Tax?
Barcelona’s official website states that the city sees “an estimated 30 million” tourists annually. The city has increased its tourist tax several times since it was introduced in 2012. With the forthcoming increase set to begin this April, the charge will be among the highest tourism taxes imposed by a European city.
As mentioned, Barcelona has been attempting to combat the negative impacts of overtourism for over a decade. Efforts have ramped up, including the city’s decision last year to move forward with banning short-term rentals by 2028.
Contextually, anti-tourist sentiments and protests have also risen throughout Spain. Naturally, Barcelona’s latest tourism tax increase raises more debate on the matter. The issue at the crux is whether the benefits to the local housing market outweigh the potential drop in tourism and revenue for local hospitality businesses.
