Europe has long been viewed as a budget-friendly alternative to long-haul destinations for British travellers. However, this summer, those jetting off to European hotspots may need to brace for significantly higher expenses. From attractions charging tourists more than locals to pricing scams on hotels and taxis, a short trip across the English Channel can quickly add up. With airfares rising globally due to the Iran conflict, affording even a brief European getaway is becoming increasingly challenging. Below are the key factors that could cost British holidaymakers hundreds of euros extra.
Two-Tier Entry Fees
Major tourist attractions, including the Louvre in Paris and the Trevi Fountain in Rome, have quietly introduced differential or dual pricing for foreign and non-EU visitors, according to consumer watchdog Which? The organisation reports that such increased fees are becoming commonplace, extending to hiking routes and some private beaches. The Louvre, one of Paris's most visited sites, raised its entry fee from €22 (£19.08) to €32 (£27.75) for Britons and other non-EEA nationals last year. This means British visitors pay €10 (£8.70) more than EU tourists to see masterpieces like Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa. When booking tickets online, British tourists must now state their country of origin and provide ID if purchasing at the museum. The Louvre attracts approximately 8.7 million visitors annually. Similarly, the Palace of Versailles now charges Britons around €35 (£30) more than French and EEA citizens, while Sainte-Chapelle costs €22 (£19) for Britons compared to €16 (£13.90) for EEA tourists.
Pricing Scams Targeting Brits
British tourists are often easy targets for pricing scams abroad. Research by Compare the Market, reported by the Majorca Daily Bulletin, reveals common tricks and average losses. Overpriced taxi rides top the list, with 32% of Brits admitting to being overcharged, losing an average of £16.59. Street sellers inflate prices for 20% of tourists, costing around £17.39. Restaurant overcharging affects 18% of travellers, with an average loss of £22.58. In Paris, an undercover investigation by Le Parisien found that American tourists were charged significantly more than French diners. In one case, a French diner paid €6.50 (£5.60) for a Coke and received free water, while an American was charged €9.50 (£8.24) for a medium Coke, €6 (£5.20) for water, and an extra €6 for undisclosed garlic bread. Although the report focused on Americans, it highlights the risk for all international visitors.
Surging Airfares
The ongoing Iran war and closure of the Strait of Hormuz have impacted jet fuel prices, leading to higher airfares. Willie Walsh, director general of the International Air Transport Association, told the BBC that airlines cannot continue absorbing these costs, making higher ticket prices inevitable. While he downplayed the risk of widespread cancellations, he warned that insufficient alternative fuel supplies could cause shortages during the peak summer period.
New ETIAS Entry Fee
Scheduled for introduction in late 2026, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will require British passport holders to pay €7 (£6) for entry to 30 European countries for short stays. This fee applies to travellers aged 18 to 70 and allows stays of up to 90 days within 180 days. The ETIAS is valid for three years or until passport expiry. Upon arrival, Britons will provide fingerprints and have their photograph taken, similar to US entry procedures.
