Catalonia, Spain, Increases Tourist Tax for Vacationers

Key Highlights

1. Catalonia has approved an increase in the tourist tax to a maximum of €15 per person per night.
2. 25% of the revenue from this tax will be allocated to affordable housing initiatives.
3. The hospitality sector in Barcelona opposes the measure, arguing that tourism already contributes significantly to the economy.

Catalonia to Double Tourist Tax, Reaching Up to €15 Per Night

The Catalan government has signed an agreement to raise the tourist tax, doubling it to €15 per person per night in some cases. The tax amount will vary depending on the type of accommodation, with five-star hotel guests currently paying €7.50, four-star hotel guests €5.70, and rental apartment guests €6.25.

This tax was first introduced in 2022, and the new increase aims to regulate tourism's impact on the region and fund housing policies.

25% of Tourist Tax Revenue to Support Affordable Housing

Under the agreement, at least 25% of the revenue generated from the tourist tax will be directed toward housing policies, benefiting vulnerable groups who struggle with housing affordability.

While Barcelona could see the tax reach the full €15 per night, other parts of Catalonia will have stricter conditions for increasing the tax. These conditions include specific surcharges that were previously exclusive to Barcelona.

Additionally, the agreement includes a doubling of the property transmission tax to 20% for individuals who own more than five apartments, as a way to further address housing issues.

Hospitality Sector Criticizes the Tax Hike

The decision has sparked opposition from Barcelona’s hospitality industry, with many arguing that the increased tax could deter tourists.

However, officials insist the tax is justified due to Catalonia’s popularity as a tourist destination. David Cid, Comuns Parliamentary Spokesperson, defended the measure, stating:

"A person paying €400–500 per night in a hotel can afford €7 more. We are seeing record numbers of tourists, and this tax will not impact the flow of visitors."

Despite this, the Barcelona Hotel Association strongly opposes the increase, calling it “fiscal asphyxiation” and emphasizing that tourism already contributes over €120 million annually to the local economy.