Lisbon approves increase in tourist tax

The tourist tax will rise from two to four euros per night per person in Lisbon’s tourist accommodation establishments. This update also includes arrivals by sea, with the fee increasing from one to two euros per cruise passenger.

The proposal to include a tourist tax in camping sites was considered but ultimately not approved.

The office of Carlos Moedas, the Mayor of Lisbon, stated that the revenue generated from the Municipal Tourist Tax is intended to improve the quality of life for Lisbon’s residents.

How are other regions of the country responding?

In 2024, several regions of Portugal are implementing or adjusting their tourist taxes. Below are some examples of where these taxes are already in place.

Porto, for instance, is considering an increase in its tourist tax, currently set at two euros per night. Other cities like Vila Nova de Gaia and Figueira da Foz also plan to raise their taxes, charging 2.5 euros throughout the year.

In Madeira, the tourist tax will be applied starting in the second half of 2024. The revenue will be used for environmental sustainability, tourism promotion, and the preservation of green spaces.

In the Algarve, cities like Faro and Olhão already apply the tourist tax, with rates of 1.5 euros per night in Faro and 2 euros in Olhão. Recently, Portimão also joined this practice, along with Vila Real de Santo António.

Additionally, Sintra and Cascais already charge 2 euros per guest in all tourist establishments. Sintra limiting the charge to three nights and Cascais to seven consecutive nights.

These changes reflect an ongoing effort to manage the impact of tourism and to fund the preservation and promotion of Portugal’s tourist regions.

Source: Publituris