Barcelona has seen significant growth in tourism in recent years. One much-discussed tool to cover costs is the tourism tax, known locally as “tasa turística.” The municipality of Barcelona recently announced that the municipal tourism tax will rise from €3.25 per night to €4 per night. This additional increase comes on top of the regional Catalan tourism tax, meaning the maximum amount per night in five-star hotels could rise to €7.50 per night. Current prices are listed at the bottom of this article.
From 1 April 2024, an additional fee of €3.25 per night will be charged in Barcelona, regardless of accommodation, including cruise passengers. This amount is in addition to the general rate set by the Regional Government for the whole of Catalonia.
In October 2023 Municipal government However, he announced that the surcharge for cruise passengers with short stays (less than 12 hours) and tourist apartments will be increased from 3.25 to 4 euros.
But it is now known that this increase will be taken into account in all tourist accommodation, including hotels between four and five stars, the rest of the facilities and establishments and cruise passengers with long stays (more than 12 hours).
the Local Authority He announced that increasing the tourist tax would increase the city’s revenues from 95 million euros to 115 million euros. This amount includes both the municipal surcharge and the Tourist Accommodation Tax (IEETS).
The crucial question regarding the increase in the tourism tax is how the additional income will be spent. According to the municipality, the revenues from this tourism tax will be used to:
- City services such as cleanliness, safety, and public transportation.
- Areas with high tourist crowds (EGA – Espais de Gran Afluència).
- Improving the infrastructure for exhibitions and events.
This spending reflects the city’s intention to invest the additional income directly in improving the quality of life for both residents and visitors, and in strengthening Barcelona’s position as a business destination.
Tourist tax in Catalonia
Catalonia was one of the first regions in Spain to introduce a tourist tax, followed by the Balearic Islands. The “tasa turística” was introduced in 2012 as a measure to manage the impact of mass tourism and generate additional income for the maintenance and improvement of tourism infrastructure.
The tourism tax in Catalonia sparked controversy when it was imposed, as opponents feared its negative impact on tourism. However, in the years since its imposition, it has become clear that the tax has not had a significant negative impact on the number of visitors. On the other hand, it contributed to financing important infrastructure and cultural projects in the region. This shows that the tourism tax has ultimately yielded positive results for Catalonia.
Although the tourism tax is levied throughout Catalonia, there are important differences in rates and their implementation between different parts of the region. Barcelona, as the largest city and a major tourist attraction, has generally higher rates than other regions of Catalonia such as the Costa Brava and Costa Dorada.
Current tourist taxes
The following prices currently apply (2024) in Barcelona:
In the rest of Catalonia the following rates currently apply (2024):
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