Major city doubles its visitor tax to become one of highest amid overtourism concerns
Hotel guest tax rises from $5-$9 to $10-$17 per person, per night β while holiday rental prices also jump
Ashley J. DiMella By Ashley J. DiMella Fox News
Published March 6, 2026 10:07am EST
With warmer months on the way, it's time to think about summer travel. FOX Business correspondent Kelly Saberi reports.
As popular vacation destinations continue their crackdown on overtourism, one major city has recently raised its traveler tax β making it one of the highest in Europe.
The city of Barcelona, Spain, has nearly doubled its hotel guest tax, from $5-$9 to $10-$17 per person, per night β while holiday rentals rose from 12.5 euros per night, up from $7.24 to a maximum of $14.49, Reuters reported.
The change follows overcrowding concerns from local residents due to the high number of visitors and a shortage of affordable housing for native Spaniards.
Barcelona citizens held a large protest last summer, even spraying tourists with water guns, as Fox News Digital previously reported.
Demonstrators marched with signs saying, "One more tourist, one less resident," and "Tourist Go Home." The demonstrators are demanding a reworking of their local economy.
https://www.foxnews.com/travel/major-city-doubles-visitor-tax-become-one-highest-amid-overtourism-concerns