Catalonia has raised its tourist tax

The Parliament of Catalonia has approved a raise of the tourist tax, with the new rates set to take effect on 1 April 2026. The move was backed by the Socialists (PSC), the left-wing ERC party and Comuns, while Junts, the PP and the far-right Vox voted against.

The increase will apply across Catalonia. Until 31 March 2027, the tax will be set at €4.50 per night, after which it will rise to €6.

From 1 April, Barcelona will charge €7 per night in tourist tax for a five-star hotel stay. In addition, the city council will have the right to raise the municipal surcharge from €4 to €8. Other cities will also be allowed to introduce their own additional levy — up to €4 — and to charge more depending on the area where the accommodation is located and the season.

Under the law, 25% of the tax revenue will be allocated to building housing, while the remaining 75% will go to the Tourism Development Fund. The authorities say the rise is needed to redirect tourism income towards social goals and tackling the shortage of affordable housing, as well as to manage tourist pressure in the region’s most popular cities.