A popular Spanish port city has become the latest destination to introduce a tourist tax, charging visitors up to €2 (£1.70) per night. The local government in Vigo, a key stop for cruises in northwestern Spain, has approved the new levy, which will apply to both overnight guests and cruise passengers.
Phased Implementation
The tax will not affect tourists this summer, as it is scheduled to take effect in October 2026 and will be rolled out in stages. Until 1 July 2027, the charge will only apply to the first two nights of a stay. After that date, the tax will cover a maximum of five nights per stay.
Charges for Cruise Passengers
Cruise passengers docking at Vigo's ports will not be charged immediately, but the nightly tax will come into force on 1 July 2027.
Accommodation-Based Rates
The amount charged depends on the type of accommodation. Guests at five-star hotels will pay the maximum rate of €2 (£1.70) per night. Those staying in three- and four-star hotels will be charged €1.60 (£1.40) per night. Two- and one-star accommodation, as well as pensioners and cruise ship passengers, will pay €1.20 (£1) per night. The lowest rate, €0.80 (70p), applies to hostels, tourist camps, rural accommodation, tourist apartments, and houses.
Exemptions
The tax will not apply to residents of Vigo. Other visitors may seek exemptions for reasons such as medical visits, participation in athletic events, or stays in social housing. Young people, individuals with certain disabilities, and those on subsidised social programme stays are also exempt.
Broader Context
Vigo joins a growing list of Spanish tourist destinations with similar taxes. Catalonia, including Barcelona, and the Balearic Islands already have such levies. Barcelona now has one of the highest tourist taxes in Europe, with visitors paying both a regional and city tax. Since 1 April, these combined charges range from €10 to €15 (£9–£13) per person per night, depending on accommodation.
