Traveling has become more expensive over the years, and in many places, visitors are expected to pay more than just their airfare and hotel costs.
Tourist taxes are becoming a common tool for governments to manage large crowds, protect local communities, and generate additional revenue.
Some cities charge visitors a small daily fee, while others impose taxes on hotels and short-term rentals.
In some cases, the money helps preserve historic sites, maintain infrastructure, or support local services.
Challenges for locals
Edinburgh will soon join the list of cities implementing a tourist tax. Starting in mid-2026, the Scottish capital will require visitors to pay a 5% accommodation fee, according to Dagens.dk.
This charge will apply to tourists staying in hotels, hostels, bed-and-breakfasts, and rental apartments. The tax is expected to bring in between 400 and 444 million kroner annually by 2028 or 2029.
The decision to introduce this tax comes after years of discussions. Edinburgh is one of the most visited cities in the United Kingdom, attracting millions of tourists each year.
While tourism is beneficial for the economy, it also creates challenges for locals.
Rising visitor numbers have contributed to higher living costs and increased pressure on public services.
Many residents have expressed concerns that tourism makes housing unaffordable and overcrowds the city.
Unlike some other cities, Edinburgh’s tax will not apply to all tourists equally. Visitors who stay more than five nights at the same location will be exempt.
The tax will be collected by hotels and rental providers, who will then pass the funds to local authorities.
Similar measures have been introduced in other European cities, including Venice and Barcelona.
In Venice, a €5 entrance fee was implemented for day-trippers in an effort to manage overcrowding. Barcelona charges visitors a per-night fee on accommodations, with the amount depending on the type of lodging.
