Traveling in 2026? Expect These Tourist Taxes

If international adventures in 2026 are on the horizon for you—whether it's a visit to bustling London, romantic Paris, or a serene Mediterranean cruise—there's a fresh expense you'll want to factor in: tourist taxes. Globally, governments have ramped-up these fees to enhance infrastructure, preserve treasured landmarks, and control tourist influx, with several notable adjustments slated for 2026.

For American tourists, understanding these changes can help prevent any unexpected expenses. Here’s an overview of the most impactful tourist taxes in 2026 that U.S. travelers should anticipate, starting with London.

London & Beyond: New Charges on Overnight Stays

England is progressing towards a tourist tax on accommodations. With the proposed English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill, mayors may soon have the authority to implement overnight visitor levies. This is especially relevant in non-metropolitan areas, aimed at fostering local growth.

Mayor Sadiq Khan supports a "modest" visitor levy in London, similar to charges in Paris and New York. According to Condé Nast Traveller, the tax could be around 5% of the nightly stay cost.

  • Affected Travelers: Those staying in London hotels, B&Bs, and short-term rentals.

  • What Funds: Local projects and tourism infrastructure.

  • Timeline: Expected initiations are around 2026 pending local decrees.

For London-bound clients, budget for a small nightly charge on top of VAT and service fees.

Edinburgh: Leading UK’s Visitor Levy Introduction

Edinburgh is set to pioneer the UK’s formal visitor levy, taking effect in early 2026 as highlighted by The Independent. With a 5% levy on early stay nights, similar to cities across Europe, the levy is seen as London's tax prototype.

  • A stay at a £200/night hotel may include a £10 nightly tax.

  • Charges will be clearly listed on invoices.

For trip plans to Scotland, knowledge of these fees can help accurately compare accommodations.

Venice: Day-Trip Charges

Venice will strategically implement day-trip charges to manage peak-tourism periods in 2026, targeting cruise visitors and other day travelers.

Virtual AI
If you’re ready to get a handle on your tax situation, reach out and we’ll guide you through each step.
Let’s Sort This Out

Details reported by industry news indicate a fee from April 18 to July 27, 2026, with varying charges based on booking timing.

  • Applicability: Day visitors not lodging overnight.

  • Process: Enhanced pre-booking at reduced rates or higher fees for same-day arrivals.

Clients should verify cruise or rail trip documents for Venice insights to avoid unexpected costs.

France: ETIAS Fees & More

For non-EU tourists like Americans, 2026 brings additional costs in France, including a new €20 ETIAS requirement and increased entry fees to major attractions. The longstanding Taxe de Séjour also applies, adding expenses for longer stays.

  • The €20 ETIAS fee will accompany other travel costs.

  • Museum entry fees for non-EU guests will rise significantly, with iconic venues charging €25–€30.

Spain: Barcelona & Balearic Updates

Barcelona and the Balearics are at the forefront of Spain’s tourist tax evolution, with new municipal levies starting 2026 and existing regional taxes.

  • Barcelona will introduce a €5 nightly surcharge in 2026, escalating to €8 by 2029.

  • The seasonal Balearic “sustainable tourism” tax varies by season.

Mexico: Adjusted Cruise Taxes

Mexico’s Federal Cruise Ship Passenger Tax will rise from $5 in 2025 to $10 in 2026, impacting travel package pricing, accompanied by state tourism fees in key destinations.

  • Quintana Roo charges about 283 MXN per foreign visitor.

  • Baja California Sur maintains a state tax of around 470 MXN.

These taxes represent a "new normal" in international travel costs for 2026. Let us help you plan with foresight to minimize unexpected fees. For further detail and tailored guidance, our team is here to assist with financial insights and travel advice.

Virtual AI
If you’re ready to get a handle on your tax situation, reach out and we’ll guide you through each step.
Let’s Sort This Out
Share this article...

Want tax & accounting tips and insights?

Sign up for our newsletter.

I confirm this is a service inquiry and not an advertising message or solicitation. By clicking “Submit”, I acknowledge and agree to the creation of an account and to the and .