Poles will pay extra taxation for the vacation trip

Holidays in Spain can be more costly than ever. Barcelona plans to double the tourism tax, which means additional costs for tourists from Poland and throughout Europe. Changes that will come into force in the coming years can make overnight accommodation in the capital of Catalonia 1 of the most costly in Europe.

Barcelona raises the tourist taxation – that's settled!

From 2026 tourists visiting Barcelona will pay up to 15 Euro (about PLN 62) tourist taxation for accommodation. This. twice as much as it is now.. Most people will be paid to choose five star hotelsbut increases will besides affect short word rents, specified as Airbnbwhere the fee will increase to 12.5 euros (approx. 52 zł) per night.

For comparison, even a fewer years ago the tourist fee in Barcelona was just EUR 1.25. Since then, it has gradually grown, and now it has to scope a evidence level. If you're planning a vacation in Spain, 2025 year may be the last minute for a cheaper stay.

Why does Barcelona rise the fee?

The decision to increase the tourism taxation drastically is due to respective reasons:

• Record number of tourists “Barcelona has been facing the alleged “overtourism” for years, that is, an excessive tourist traffic that makes life hard for the inhabitants.
• Problem with housing availability – part of the taxation resources are intended to be utilized to build premises for the most deprived. It is estimated that this could be even 25% of tourist toll revenues.
• Pursuing “more exclusive” tourism – the city authorities openly admit that higher fees are to attract more “conscious” tourists and reduce the number of those who choose inexpensive accommodation and “mass tourism”.

Poles pay more for vacations than others?

Spain has been 1 of the favourite vacation destinations of Poles for years. W Over 1.2 million Poles visited her in 2023and Barcelona was 1 of the most popular cities.

With an average stay of 5-7 nights, the additional cost of tourism taxation may even be 90-100 zł per person. For a household of four, that means additional expenditure of 400 PLN.

For comparison:

• Berlin – 5% of the accommodation value
• Paris – from 1 to 5 euros per night
• Rome – from 3 to 7 euros per night
• Vienna – 3.2% of the value of the accommodation

Barcelona will become 1 of the most costly cities in Europe in terms of tourism fees.

The hoteliers are protesting, but will that change anything?

Tax increases have sparked a sharp reaction from the hotel industry. Representatives of the tourism sector stress that:

• Barcelona is already 1 of the most costly tourist citiesAnd fresh charges can scare off any tourists.
• Tourism revenues are crucial to the local economy – reducing the number of visitors can affect restaurants, shops and tourist attractions.
• Unfair competition from another cities – Paris, Rome or Lisbon can attract tourists who quit Barcelona due to rising costs.

Despite these arguments, City authorities do not intend to quit on increases. The left-wing group Comens, which pushes changes, argues that those paying for accommodation EUR 400-500 will not be charged an additional EUR 7-15.

Is it worth planning a vacation in Barcelona?

If you plan to visit Barcelona and don't want to overpay, The best time to leave is 2025. Since 2026 prices can become unacceptable for many tourists.

But if fresh taxes do not deter you, remember that:

• Barcelona is 1 of the most beautiful cities in Europe, with the unique architecture of Gaudí, beautiful beaches and excellent cuisine.
• Other Spanish cities can be an alternative, e.g. Valencia or Malaga, where tourist charges are importantly lower.
• Booking of accommodation in advance can aid avoid any increases.

Summary – Barcelona or another directions?

• Tourist taxation in Barcelona will increase to EUR 15 per night in 2026 – is the highest fee in Europe.
• The increase will hit tourists from Poland mostwho frequently choose longer stays.
• The hoteliers are protesting, but the changes seem determined “Barcelona’s authorities are committed to reducing budget tourism.
• Other cities in Spain or popular destinations specified as Italy, Croatia or Turkey can be an alternative.

Will the taxation increase deter tourists? Or will Barcelona stay 1 of the most popular cities in Europe despite the higher costs?

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