Portuguese Cities still far from Europe’s Highest Tourist Taxes
While Amsterdam tops the list with a staggering 18.45€ per night, no Portuguese destination makes it into the Top 10, despite an increasing number of municipalities introducing or updating local tourist levies.
As tourist taxes gain momentum across Europe as a tool to manage over-tourism and support public services, Portuguese cities remain well below the continent’s top rates, according to a recent study by Holidu, based on Euromonitor’s “Top 100 City Destinations Ranking.”
With a 12.5% charge on the total booking cost, Amsterdam currently applies the highest tourist tax in Europe and the world. This policy is part of the Dutch capital’s broader strategy to balance tourism with local quality of life, fund urban maintenance, and ensure visitors contribute directly to the city’s upkeep and services.
Greece, Germany, and Italy Dominate the Top 10
Several Greek cities, including Athens, Rhodes, Heraklion, and Thessaloniki, share second place with a daily resilience fee of 8.17€. Formerly known as a “lodging tax,” this fee is now promoted as a climate resilience tax and varies by accommodation type and season, with reduced rates during off-peak months (November to March).
Berlin comes in sixth with a 7.5% accommodation tax starting January 2025, translating to around 7.38€ per night. Unlike previous rules, this new rate applies to all short stays, including business travel—a notable policy shift.
In Italy, multiple cities make the Top 10:
- Rome: Up to 10€ per night for 5-star hotels
- Florence: Up to 8€ per night for top-tier stays
- Milan: 7€ per night for 4 and 5-star hotels
- Bologna: New tiered system reaching 7€ per night, based on accommodation price
These increases reflect growing efforts by local governments to finance tourism infrastructure, prepare for large-scale events like the 2025 Jubilee Year, and preserve historic and cultural sites.
Portugal’s Tourist Taxes Remain Modest
In contrast, Portuguese cities maintain comparatively low rates. Currently, 41 municipalities across Portugal charge a tourist tax, with at least 10 more planning to implement one by 2025, according to Holidu.
The highest rates in Portugal are:
- Lisbon and Cascais: 4€ per night
- Porto: 3€ per night
- Vila Nova de Gaia: 2.50€ per night
Most other Portuguese municipalities charge between 1€ and 2€ per night, making the country one of the most affordable in Europe in terms of nightly tourist taxes.
Although Portugal’s tourist taxes are modest, the number of municipalities implementing them is steadily growing, signaling a nationwide move toward sustainable tourism funding. These taxes are typically reinvested in local tourism services, infrastructure upgrades, and cultural preservation, though they remain low enough to keep the country attractive to budget-conscious travelers.
As visitor numbers rise and overtourism becomes a concern in some areas, Portuguese cities may gradually revisit their strategies, potentially raising rates in key destinations or during peak seasons, in line with broader European trends.
Portugal Still a Budget-Friendly Destination
While cities like Amsterdam, Rome, and Berlin are raising tourist taxes to mitigate pressure on urban life and heritage, Portugal stands out for its affordability, even as it continues to strengthen local tourism policies.
For travelers seeking European culture, sunshine, and historic charm without hefty extra fees, Portugal remains one of the most welcoming—and cost-effective—choices in Europe.