Barcelona Joins Venice, Amsterdam, Kyoto, Hawaii, and Santorini in Raising Tourism Taxes in 2026: What Travelers Need to Know

From Europe to the Pacific, a growing number of popular destinations are introducing or increasing tourism taxes in 2026 to tackle overtourism, environmental strain, and infrastructure costs.

Barcelona, Venice, Amsterdam, Kyoto, Hawaii, and Greece are leading the shift toward sustainable tourism financing.

Why Are These Taxes Being Introduced?

The primary goal is to protect local environments and heritage.
Tourism growth has brought overcrowding, rising costs, and ecological degradation.
These new taxes aim to fund sustainability projects, transportation improvements, and cultural preservation.

Barcelona: Up to €8 by 2029

Barcelona will raise its municipal tourism surcharge from €4 to €5 per night in January 2026, with incremental increases to €8 by 2029.
The funds will support infrastructure renewal and environmental initiatives.
Children under 16 are exempt.

Venice: Entry Fee for Day-Trippers

Starting April 2026, Venice will charge €5–€10 for day visitors during peak hours (April–July).
The online fee system, processed via QR code, aims to reduce overcrowding and fund preservation efforts.
Overnight guests are exempt.

Amsterdam: Higher Taxes and Cruise Fees

Amsterdam will maintain its 12.5% tourist tax, but with a national VAT increase from 9% to 21%, the total effective tax will reach 33.5%.
Cruise passengers will pay a new €14.50 day tax starting in 2026.
The revenue will fund city services and manage visitor flow.

[h2]Kyoto: Tiered Accommodation Tax