lanzarote tourist tax

A complete guide to the Tourist Tax in Spain: What it is, who must pay it and what are the consequences of non-compliance.

• Post author By Valery Saavedra
• Post date 08/08/2023
• No Comments on A complete guide to the Tourist Tax in Spain: What it is, who must pay it and what are the consequences of non-compliance.

What is the Tourist Tax in Spain?

The Tourist Tax in Spain is a tax applied in certain tourist destinations, with the main purpose of financing conservation and sustainability projects . It is characterised by the fact that it is an economic contribution that visitors make during their stay, aimed at maintaining and protecting the natural and cultural environment of the place.

The money collected through the Tourist Tax is directly invested in actions that promote environmental conservation and sustainability. This can range from the protection of natural areas, to projects to improve energy efficiency or promote the use of renewable energies.

Tourist Tax plays a crucial role in promoting responsible tourism . By paying it, travellers contribute to the care and preservation of the natural and cultural resources of the destination they visit. It raises awareness of the environmental impact of tourism and encourages visitors to adopt more environmentally friendly behaviour.

Where is the Tourist Tax paid in Spain?

The tourist tax, also known as ecotax , is applied in several regions of Spain. However, two prominent tourist destinations where this tax is levied are Catalonia and the Balearic Islands .

In Catalonia , the implementation of the tourist tax became effective from 2012. Visitors must pay a fee that varies depending on the category of accommodation and location. It ranges from 0.60 euros to 3.50 euros per night and person.

On the other hand, in the Balearic Islands , the Tourist Tax was introduced in 2016. Here, the amount to be paid depends on the season (high or low) and the type of accommodation, ranging from 0.25 euros to 2 euros per night and person in high season.

As for how this tax is paid, in both regions it is generally collected at the end of the stay, being the responsibility of the establishment to collect it and its subsequent declaration to the tax authorities.

It is important to bear in mind that each Spanish autonomous community has its own rules and rates with regard to the Tourist Tax, so it is always advisable to find out more before travelling.

Thus, although both Autonomous Communities (Catalonia and Balearic Islands) charge a tourist tax, there are significant differences in terms of how much and how it is paid . At Chekin, we are well-aware that calculating tourist taxes is a complex and tedious process. There are many parameters involved that vary between regions and countries. But don’t worry, our software calculates them automatically for you .

What VAT is levied on the tourist tax?

The Tourist Tax , also known as ecotax, is subject to a value added tax (VAT) in Spain. This tax has a tax rate of 10% . This means that 10% of the total amount of the tourist tax goes to VAT .

It is important to note that this VAT is not added to the amount of the Tourist Tax, but is included in the final amount paid by the tourist. For example, if the Tourist Tax is 2 euros per night in an accommodation, the VAT would be 0.20 euros.

This percentage of VAT on the Tourist Tax is fixed and does not vary according to factors such as the type of accommodation or the season. In fact, it is applied uniformly to all transactions related to the tourist tax.

Payment of VAT is compulsory and non-compliance may lead to penalties. As with the Tourist Tax itself, it is the responsibility of the accommodation owner to collect this VAT and remit it to the tax administration.

Which cities have a tourist tax?

In Spain , several cities and regions have implemented the tourist tax to finance sustainability and conservation projects. In Catalonia, the cities of Barcelona, Girona, Tarragona and Lleida apply this tax to visitors. Each city has its own charging system and rates vary depending on the type of accommodation and the season. You can find our legal guide for Catalonia to make sure your property meets all requirements such as Tourist Taxes.

The Balearic Islands have also adopted the ecotax . In this case, Palma de Mallorca, Ibiza and Menorca are destinations where this tax is charged to tourists. As in Catalonia, the rates may depend on the type of accommodation and the season.

It is important to note that the money collected through the tourist tax is used to finance projects that seek to preserve the environment and promote more sustainable tourism in these regions. In the following section, we will focus on who is obliged to pay this tax.

How can I automate the Tourist Tax collection process?

To facilitate the collection of the ecotax, there are tools that allow you to automate this process . One of these is Chekin , a digital platform that allows you to manage guest registration and payments, including the collection of ecotax. This tool is especially useful if you manage multiple properties or if you don’t live close to your holiday properties to be able to do it remotely.

With Chekin , you can:

• Automate the Tourist Tax calculation based on guest data and local regulations.
• Ask your guests to pay the tourist tax during online check-in.
• Manage your collections and collect the tourist tax in an automated way thanks to Chekin .

Adopting this technological solution can save you time and avoid errors in the calculation and collection of the ecotax . Remember, it is not only about complying with your tax obligations, but also about contributing to sustainable tourism.

Who has to pay the Tourist Tax in Spain?

The payment of the Tourist Tax in Spain is an obligation for all tourists over 16 years of age who stay in tourist establishments, from hotels to tourist flats, campsites and cruises. Even those who stay overnight in their private boat in the waters of the Balearic Islands are subject to this tax.

There are specific categories of individuals and entities that are obliged to pay. Owners of tourist establishments are responsible for collecting the Tourist Tax from their guests and transferring it to the government.

However, there are some exceptions as to who is exempt from paying the Tourist Tax. For example, persons with a recognised disability of 33% or more and their companions, children under the age of 16, people travelling for work purposes, or those in urgent or emergency situations are exempt from payment.

There are also specific situations where the Tourist Tax is not required. If an individual stays for a long period (more than 20 consecutive days) in the same establishment, the days from the 20th day onwards are exempt from payment.

Thus, it is important to be aware of the rules and regulations regarding the payment of the ecotax to avoid any inconvenience during your stay. Tourist Taxes by Chekin calculates the tourist rates for any place in the world, automatically meeting the official requirements of your country or region.

How much is the Tourist Tax? Amount at each site and exceptions

The ecotax, also known as tourist tax , varies depending on the location and type of accommodation. In Catalonia, for example, the amount can range from €0.60 to €3.50 per person per night, while in the Balearic Islands the amount can be as much as €2 per night.

There are certain exceptions to this general rule:

• Children under the age of 16 are exempt from this fee.
• In the Balearic Islands, during the low season (November to April), a 50% discount applies.
• Long term accommodation: if the stay exceeds 12 days, a 50% discount will be applied from the 13th day onwards.

These amounts serve as a reference to understand how much the Tourist Tax could be. However, it is crucial to consult updated local rates to get an accurate figure and to be aware of any changes in exceptions or discounts.

What happens if I do not pay the Tourist Tax?

Failure to pay the Tourist Tax can lead to severe legal consequences . It is important to understand that this tax is not optional, but a legal duty for certain tourists and accommodation establishments.

Penalties or fines vary depending on the location and the seriousness of the infraction. For example, in the Balearic Islands, the fine can be up to 400,000 euros for tour operators who do not charge the Tourist Tax. In Catalonia, fines can be equally high for those who evade this tax. Moreover, repeated non-compliance can lead to additional restrictions and possible legal action. One notable case is that of a hotel in Mallorca that was forced to close for five days for non-payment of the Tourist Tax.

It is crucial to understand the importance of compliance with the Tourist tax , also known as ecotax, not only to avoid legal sanctions, but also to contribute to the sustainable development of tourist regions.

When is Tourist Tax levied?

The specific time at which the Tourist Tax is charged may vary depending on the location. Generally, this fee is charged at check-in or upon arrival at the accommodation. However, in some cases, it may be included in the total price when booking.

In relation to tax administration, the collection and management of the Tourist Tax is carried out by the relevant local authorities. These funds are then transferred to the treasury and earmarked for conservation and sustainable projects.

The funds raised through the ecotax play a crucial role in financing sustainable and conservation projects. These projects can address a variety of issues important to the local community, such as the conservation of protected natural areas, improvements to tourism infrastructure or environmental education programmes.

How much is the tourist tax in Catalonia?

The tourist tax in Catalonia varies depending on the type of accommodation and the season. For a 5-star hotel, the rate is 3.50 euros per night during the high season. In the case of tourist flats, you pay 2.25 euros per night all year round.

It is important to note that this amount collected is used to finance projects linked to sustainable tourism in Catalonia . These can range from the preservation and improvement of natural and cultural spaces to initiatives to promote responsible tourism.

This tourism tax model seeks to balance the impact of tourism with the benefits it brings to the region. It ensures that each visitor contributes directly to maintaining and enhancing the unique and attractive features of Catalonia that have led to its choice as a destination.

How much tourist tax do you pay in the Balearics?

If you plan to visit the beautiful Balearic Islands, it is important to be aware of the tourist tax you will have to pay. The specific amount varies according to the season and type of accommodation. In high season (May to October), five-star hotels and four-star superior accommodation charge a daily rate of €4.00 per person, while holiday homes charge €2.00. During the low season, these rates are halved.

It is worth mentioning that these funds raised are used to promote sustainable tourism and protect the unique natural and cultural heritage of the Balearics. Thus, by paying this fee, you are directly contributing to the conservation of these paradisiacal Spanish destinations.

Who pays the Tourist Tax in Catalonia?

In Catalonia, the tourist tax is the responsibility of visitors over the age of 16. This obligation falls mainly on tourists staying in any type of tourist accommodation establishment, which includes hotels, tourist flats, rural houses, campsites and cruise ships.

It is important to note that there are some exceptions to consider. For example, people staying in tourist accommodation establishments located within the Ebro Delta Natural Park are not subject to this tax.

In addition, guests who prove that they are undergoing medical treatment during their stay are also not obliged to pay it. These details are crucial to understand who is exempt from paying the tourist tax in Catalonia.

Who pays the Tourist Tax in the Balearics?

In the Balearic Islands, the ecotax is a liability that falls mainly on tourists. In general, anyone staying in a registered accommodation establishment, such as hotels, tourist flats and similar places of accommodation, is obliged to pay this tax.

Visitors of all ages are subject to the tax, although there are certain exceptions. For example, Balearic residents staying in a tourist establishment on the islands are not obliged to pay the eco-tax. In addition, children under the age of 16 are also exempt from payment.

In summary, it is essential to understand who is obliged to pay the ecotax in the Balearics to avoid misunderstandings and to ensure compliance with this sustainability-oriented measure.

Privacy Overview

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Before Header

• CONVENTION BUREAU
• EUROPEAN SPORTS DESTINATION
• FILM COMMISSION
• SUPERYACHT DESTINATION
• TASTING LANZAROTE

Turismo Lanzarote

Practical Information

Below you will find useful information to enable you to avoid unpleasant surprises and to enjoy your stay in lanzarote to the maximum:, before coming, arriving on the island.

• Necessary documentation: to travel to the Canary Islands, the only documentation you need to carry with you is your National ID document or passport, if you are a citizen of a country in the European Union.
• Brexit: You may need to do extra things before you travel to the UE from the UK. Check UK’s travel advice for the latest information.
• Medical attention : it is advisable to take out travel insurance that includes medical attention. That way you will be free to attend your assigned doctor if the need arises.
• Luggage: with an annual average temperature of 22º and practically 300 days of sunshine, it is advisable to bring comfortable light clothing and a jumper or a jacket for nighttime, in addition to beach clothing and sun cream.
• When to visit: given that the prevailing climate throughout the year in Lanzarote is sunny and without rain, there is no specific tourist season. This means that you can enjoy a vacation at any time of the year. High season is focused on the summer period and other holiday times, such as Christmas and Easter.
• Hiring a car: to hire a car you will need a current driving licence. In the case of using your own vehicle, you will also need to have all your vehicle documentation in order, as well as car insurance.
• Time zone: Lanzarote, like the rest of the islands in the Canary archipelago, uses Greenwich Meridian Time (GMT) throughout the year, except from April to October, when it changes to GMT+1. The Canary Islands are one hour behind the rest of the Iberian peninsula throughout the year.
• Currency: Euro
• Public holidays: Public holidays in the Autonomous Region of the Canaries: 1st January (New Year), 7th January (Epiphany), Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, 1st May (Labour Day), 30th May (Day of the Canaries), 15th August (Ascension Day), 1st November (All Saint’s Day) and 6th December (Day of the Constitution), 8th December (Immaculate Conception) and 25th December (Christmas). Public holiday on the island: 15th September (Nuestra Señora de los Dolores) Local public holidays: Arrecife: Carnival Tuesday and 25th August (San Ginés) San Bartolomé: Carnival Tuesday and 24th June (San Juan) Haría: Carnival Tuesday and 24th June (San Juan) Yaiza: 7th July (San Marcial) and 8th September (Nuestra Sra. de los Remedios) Teguise: Carnival Tuesday and 16th July (Nuestra Sra. del Carmen) Tinajo: Carnival Tuesday y and 16th August (San Roque) Tías: 2nd February (Nuestra Sra. de Calendaría) and Carnival Tuesday
• Accessible tourism: Isla De Los Volcanes Home Help Service  www.sadiv.es
• Calling your home country: Depending on the country, you must dial the following codes before the telephone number:

Germany: +49           Austria: +43 Belgium: +32            Bulgaria: +359 Canada: +1                Denmark: +45 Slovenia: +386         USA: +1 Estonia: +372           Finland: +358 France: +33              Hungary: +36 Ireland: +353           Italy: +39 Latvia: +371              Lithuania: +370 Luxembourg: +352  Norway: +47 Netherlands: +31     Poland: +48 Portugal: +351          United Kingdom: +44 Czech Rep.: +420     Slovakia: +421 Sweden: +46             Switzerland: +41

• Airport: Airport tax: usually your ticket will include airport tax. César Manrique Lanzarote airport: located 6km from the capital, between Arrecife and Puerto del Carmen. It is in the municipality of San Bartolomé and is divided into 2 terminals: T1 is for flights to the peninsula (with daily flights from several airline companies, such as Air Europa, Iberia and EasyJet) and for flights to the rest of the world. T2 is for scheduled inter-island flights (Binter Canarias and Canaryfly).
• Travel agencies: In Lanzarote there is a whole network of receiving agencies through which you can access all the services you will need at your destination, such as transfers, excursions, etc…
• Opening hours The opening hours for leisure and commercial activities, banking and restaurants vary according to the numbers and needs of tourists. The exact information related to each offer can be found in the menu corresponding to the appropriate section of this web portal.
• What should I do if I have a problem in an establishment? If you have a problem with any establishment (restaurant, hotel ,etc.), request the corresponding complaints form to explain the reasons for your complaint and you can be sure this will reach the relevant bodies.
• Transport During your visit to the island you can use the Guaguas bus service, which connects the capital to the different towns, as well as the taxi service. There are also boats and ferries that connect Lanzarote with La Graciosa and with the other islands in the Canary archipelago.
• About traffic regulations The maximum speed limit on highways is 90 km/h and in urban areas it is 60 km/h, unless otherwise indicated. There are traffic regulations that control and penalise not wearing a seatbelt, driving under the influence of alcohol and the use of mobile phones without a hands-free system. If you are involved in a serious accident, call 112. If you are not injured, exchange the necessary details with the other drivers involved in the accident. Car hire agencies must have taken out insurance for the driver and the vehicle, and must also have a number for vehicle breakdown.
• Health Hospital:  you can consult all the information  here . Insurance: if you have private insurance, you must contact your insurance agency to request a transfer card. If you attend any of the public hospitals or clinics, remember that you will need to present your Social Security card. Sun protection: the hottest and sunniest months are July, August and September, with an average of 12 hours of sun per day and daytime temperatures of between 27º and 29º. During these months you should avoid sunbathing at midday and use a high protection sun cream. Medicines: do not forget to bring with you any medication that you need to take. Local pharmacies stock all the main brands of analgesics and other common medications. There are pharmacies in all tourist areas and there is always one on duty.
• Does the island have safe drinking water? Tap water comes from desalination plants and is perfectly drinkable. However, if you do not like the taste of the water, you will find a large variety of bottled water in any shop.

Before Footer

KEEP ME INFORMED ABOUT WHAT HAPPENS IN LANZAROTE

TURISMO LANZAROTE

• Lanzarote Convention Bureau
• Lanzarote European Sports Destination
• Lanzarote Film Commission
• Lanzarote Superyacht Destination
• Tasting Lanzarote

DISCOVER LANZAROTE

• The Lanzarote Effect
• Arts and culture
• Gastronomy and wines
• Sustainanility

PLAN YOUR TRIP

• Tourist information offices
• Practical information
• Connections by air
• Getting around
• Accommodation

WHAT TO SEE

• Events Calendar
• Leisure and free time
• Food and drinks
• Wellness & Spa
• The Hidden Corners of Lanzarote
• CACT Lanzarote
• Beaches and natural pools
• La Graciosa Island

A walk through the 'Magic Villages' of Lanzarote Just like in Mexico, Lanzarote also boasts magical villages that tell the story of a mythical island where human beings live in a friendly coexistence with the elements: sea, wind, land, volcano... These are unique places that have preserved their original architecture, traditions, history and culture. Would [...]

Utilizamos cookies de terceros para analizar y personalizar su navegación. Aquellas que son analíticas o de rendimiento puede aceptarlas o configurarlas aquí:

Tourist tax in Corfu

Prices in barcelona, tourist tax in turkey. climate fee, tourist tax in the azores.

• Dominican Republic
• Canary Islands
• United Arab Emirates
• Where to go?

Benqu News & Blog WordPress Theme

Makuszyńskiego 99B, 42-208 Częstochowa

Tourist tax in Lanzarote

• BY Simon Machniewski

Currently, no additional tourist tax is charged to tourists in Lanzarote. However, there are reports of the possibility of introducing a tourist tax – such solutions have already been implemented in Barcelona and the Balearic Islands, among others, in 2016.

The tourist tax, also known as a climate tax, is paid for a stay at a tourist destination. Most often, the tax is collected at the reception of the lodging establishment, upon check-in. It is not included in the price of accommodation, but is a separate charge. In Spain, the tourist tax ranges from 1 to 4 euros, depending on the standard of the hotel. Such taxes are also collected in Greece, among other countries.

Look also: Tourist tax in Gran Canaria

How much is the tourist tax in Lanzarote?

Tourists staying in Lanzarote, however, are exempt from additional fees. The Canary Islands, unlike the Balearic Islands, do not charge tourist taxes. There is also little indication that this is about to change, so when planning a vacation to Lanzarote, you don’t need to include tourist tax in your expenses yet.

Prices in Gran Canaria

Tourist tax in menorca.

• Simon Machniewski

About Author

Traveler and owner of a small marketing agency.

You may also like

Gran Canaria – what’s worth seeing? Best places to visit. Top attractions

Winter in Gran Canaria

Tourist Tax in Lanzarote: What You Need to Know

Is there a tourist tax in lanzarote.

As a frequent traveler and lover of all things Lanzarote, I have always been curious about the existence of a tourist tax in this beautiful island. After thorough and to locals, I excited to share findings with you.

Understanding the Tourist Tax

Before we delve into whether there is a tourist tax in Lanzarote, it`s important to understand what a tourist tax is and how it affects travelers. A tourist tax, known as bed tax or tax, is a imposed on by governments. This tax is added the of such hotels, properties, and campsites.

The Current Situation in Lanzarote

As of my most recent visit to Lanzarote, there is no official tourist tax in place. This that visitors the are not to any fees on of their costs. This is news for looking to the beaches, landscapes, and culture of Lanzarote without to about an financial.

Local Perspectives

During my with locals, I that have discussions about a tourist tax in Lanzarote the past. However, to the heavy on as a source of income, has been to the of an cost for. Additionally, there are concerns about the potential impact of a tourist tax on the island`s competitiveness as a tourist destination.

Comparative Analysis

To provide a broader perspective, let`s take a look at some popular tourist destinations that do have a tourist tax in place:

Seeing varying of tourist taxes in popular can us the tax-free of Lanzarote even more.

As stands, there is no tourist tax in Lanzarote, making an and destination for. The of a tourist tax allows to all that the has to without any financial.

While important to about potential in policies, for we can in the of Lanzarote without the of a tourist tax.

Legal Contract: The Existence of Tourist Tax in Lanzarote

This contract is into on this between the parties, with the of the existence of a tourist tax in Lanzarote, in with the and legal governing the industry.

IN WHEREOF, the hereto have this as of the first above written.

Top 10 Legal Questions About Tourist Tax in Lanzarote

© 2024 EmCan Media - Hosted By canaryfone

• The new 'tax free' system in the Canaries will...

The new 'tax free' system in the Canaries will be complicated and expensive for tourists

• Canarian Weekly

The new 'tax-free' system that has been approved by the Canary Islands Government that will allow tourists from third countries (including the UK since Brexit) to get a refund of the IGIC on their purchases whilst on holiday from February 23 rd , is fraught with deadlines and a minimum spend.

As detailed in the Official Gazette of the Canary Islands (BOC) last Wednesday, which includes the provisions and characteristics of the new system (approved on December 29th), travellers must be entitled to a refund of the IGIC equal to or greater than 40 euros to qualify for the system.

This amount forces tourists to spend a minimum of between 380 euros, when the items are subject to a 15% IGIC, and 816 if it is items subject to 7%, which are the majority in the Canaries, on one or more purchases. All items must have been bought on the same trip and within 90 days for those staying in the islands the maximum amount of time allowed.

The limit to the amount is another novelty of the 'tax-free' system that the Government has opted for compared to the system that exists at the national level and in the main cities and destinations of the world, in which there is no minimum amount to be able to benefit from the refund. The Canarian system has also chosen to leave out the large 'tax-free' operators who return the money on the fly in exchange for a small refund.

Tourists and retailers are not happy with this new system, which will be managed by the Tax Agency of the Canary Islands, claiming it is too complicated for travellers who will only be able to make claims in a three hour ‘window’ before they leave the islands, via interactive terminals that will be installed in ports and airports, will get charged by banks for the transfers to their accounts, meaning they don’t receive the full amount, and it will take up to six months to get it.

DIVA model in mainland Spain: The way it works in mainland Spain called DIVA, which is similar to that of the rest of the world, allows you to make the return with the large operators on the go, which means you have the money at the moment of your purchase, and more than likely spend it on more shopping whilst on holiday. In the Canary Islands, the traveller will receive the money when he is already back in his country which does not help to generate more economic activity.

Below 40 euros is not worth it: The director of the Canary Islands Tax Agency, Raquel Peligero, justifies the fact that a minimum amount has been set so that travellers can take advantage of the new 'tax free' system, saying that for low-quantity purchases "it is not worth processing a refund due to management costs. Setting a minimum is normal as we can’t start returning amounts of 50 cents or a couple of euros.”

“There must be a minimum because everything has a management cost and there is a moment when it is not worth it. It is usual”, concludes Peligero, for whom it does not make sense to return less than the cost involved in carrying out the process.

The 40 kiosks that have been acquired and that will be installed in the ports and airports of the islands, will be located before passenger controls. "It was studied whether to place them inside or outside and it was concluded that it was better to make it easier for staff to access," says Peligero, who points out that passenger service offices are going to be installed in the terminals.

Controls will also be tightened to prevent foreign residents on the islands from going to the airports to manage the return of the purchases they make when they do not comply with the requirement to leave the Canary Islands.

30-year-old man dies by drowning at a Playa Pirata beach

Shield Your Forex Wealth from Multicurrency Pitfalls

The Canaries lead economic growth in Spain with a 3.6% increase this year

7 arrested caught smuggling 1,700 kilos of hashish into Tenerife

Five seafront restaurants closed after operating without licenses for 50 years

Man hides dead mother's body for six months in his home in Tenerife

Sewage spill forces the closure of Playa Blanca beach

The husband of Laura Gastón, found dead in the sea, still missing in Tenerife

Low-cost flights to the Canary Islands have increased by over 30%

VIDEO: Wanted paedophile arrested in the south of Tenerife

Beach Vacations in Spain: Finding the Best Spots for Sun and Sea

Man drops dead in a shopping centre in the south of Tenerife

Clear and sunny in the south and cloudier in the north of the islands this Friday

Ministers address the problem of population growth in the Canary Islands

Identity revealed of dead woman found floating in the sea in Tenerife

Man arrested for threatening to kill his ex-wife in the south of Tenerife

'Salvar La Tejita' urges the Cabildo to cancel the Motor Circuit and buy the La Tejita plot

The LIVVO Volcan Lanzarote Hotel wins prestigious award

Activists end hunger strike in Tenerife after 20 days

Cabildo approves initial 4.5 million euros for 78 residential properties in Tenerife

Tenerife Gran Canaria Lanzarote Fuerteventura La Palma La Gomera El Hierro

• La Graciosa
• Fuerteventura
• Gran Canaria
• Means of Transport
• Natural Parks
• Theme Parks
• Aquatic and Theme Parks
• Hotels in Tenerife
• Hotels in Gran Canaria
• Hoteles de Fuerteventura
• Hotels in Lanzarote
• Hotels in La Palma
• Hotels in La Gomera
• Hotels in El Hierro
• Apartaments
• Canary Islands
• Prepare your holidays
• What to see
• Canary Food and Drinks
• Privacy and Policy

Taxes and tips in the Canary Islands

Discover how much you should give in tips and how much taxes will you pay in the canary islands..

Likewise other regions in Spain, in the Canary Islands everyone should pay taxes for what its buying.

Taxes in the Canary islands:

Also known as I.G.I.C. (Indirect General Canary Taxes) is generally 7% in restaurants, hotels, shops (excluding clothes and shoes which is 3%) and in car rental and jewelry which is 13,5%.

Should I tip in the Canary Islands?

Tips are not mandatory as every establishment in Spain includes the service price. Tipping is usual in bars, restaurants, hotels and taxis depending on the client’s generosity.

Find out more information you need to know before your trip to the Canary Islands :

• Accommodation
• Communication
• Festivities
• Smoking and Drinking
• How to dress
• Health Assistance
• The Canary Islands Flag
• Tips and Taxes
• Disabled Facilities

Flight Offers:

Compare flight offers and book in advance to save some money.

Book now your Hotel or Apartment:

• Hotels in Arona
• Hotels in Costa Adeje
• Accommodation in Los Cristianos
• Accommodation in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
• Hotels in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
• Hotels in Maspalomas
• Accommodation in Playa del Inglés
• Hotels in Corralejo
• Apartaments in Costa Teguise
• Hotels in Valle Gran Rey

Find the largest offer in car rental for your holidays:

Tourism tax rates in Spain

Last updated 15 February 2021 | Rates reviewed for all destinations listed. Changes include:

• Catalonia regional tax rate increase
• Barcelona Surcharge delayed from January 2021 until June 2021
• Update on destinations considering

A tourism tax (tasa turística) only applies in Catalonia and the Balearic Islands.

The following destinations are considering but unknown if or when a tax will be implemented (as of 15 February 2021) .

• San Sebastián  – Potentially proposed between €1 and €5 per person per night depending on star rating of accommodation. Decision postponed to a future date .
• Segovia  – Potentially proposed €1 or €2 per person per night
• Seville  – Potentially proposed €1 or €2 per person per night

The tourist tax (taxa turística) is decided by the regional government (Generalitat de Catalunya) using the flat rate per person, per night by accommodation type and star rating and a day tax is levied on cruise ship passengers.

The regional government has also approved Barcelona City Council to implement a Surcharge in addition to the regional tourist tax, set to be implemented on 1 June 2021. The law allows the Surcharge amount to vary up to €4 depending on the location of the accommodation, but  Barcelona City Council have agreed  the following fixed amounts:

2021 – €0.75 per person per night 2022 & 2023 – €1 per person per night 2024 – €1.25 per person per night

N.B. in the case of early booking of the accommodation, the applicable rate is the one in force at the time of making the reservation provided that the amount of the reservation and the tax is paid at this time.

* 1-3 stars:  €1 regional tax + €0.75 surcharge * 4 stars:  €1.70 regional tax + €0.75 surcharge * 5 stars:  €3.50 regional tax + €0.75 surcharge

How the tax revenue is used

The regional tax revenue is collected by the regional government (Generalitat de Catalunya) with a proportion of the revenue redistributed to local governments to be used for tourism promotion and develop tourism-related infrastructure and services. In November 2019 the Ajuntament de Barcelona announced €4.22 million of this revenue to be used to fund 7 projects in the city.

Revenue from The Surcharge is to be fully retained and managed by Barcelona City Council. The revenue is intended for similar purposes as the regional tax.

Balearic Islands (Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, Formentera)

The tourist tax (impost del turisme sostenible) is known as the eco or sustainable tax and is decided by the local government (municipality). The tax applies to visitors staying in commercial accommodation and cruise ship passengers. In low season (1 st November to 30 th April), the tax is reduced by 75%.

A webpage has been published to show which specific projects related to sustainability are funded by the tax.

Disclaimer: While best efforts have been made to verify the accuracy of the information, the information displayed should be used as guidance only.

This content is exclusive to ETOA members

Login here to access it now.

Forgot your password?

Not a member yet?

The ETOA membership opens invaluable networking opportunities to your business, allows you to gain access to critical insights and information and contributes to the campaign for a better regulatory environment in Europe.

• Connect with the global travel trade
• Stay informed of insights, regulations and changes
• Be supported in shaping the tourism landscape

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Arts & Culture
• Time Out Market
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

These are all the destinations you’ll need to pay extra to visit this year

More and more popular travel destinations are introducing tourist taxes to tackle problems caused by overtourism – here’s what you’ll have to pay

This year, international travel is forecast to bounce back to the highest levels since 2019 – and while that’s great news for the tourism industry in general, many cities, attractions and entire regions are suffering under the weight of overtourism .

The potential for damage to historic sites, unhinged tourist behaviour  and the simple issue of overcrowding are all common consequences of overtourism. That’s why a growing list of popular travel destinations have introduced a tourist tax, with the hopes of controlling visitor numbers and improving local infrastructure to better cater to higher visitor capacity. 

Many countries and cities introduced a tourist tax in 2023, and many more are due to launch theirs in 2024. Tourist taxes aren’t a new thing – you’ve probably paid one before, tied in with the cost of a plane ticket or the taxes you pay at a hotel. 

However, more destinations than ever before are creating this fee for tourists, and many places have increased the cost of existing ones. Here’s a full list of all the destinations charging a tourist tax in 2024, including all the recently introduced and upcoming tourist taxes you need to know about. 

Austria charges visitors a nightly accommodation tax which differs depending on province. In Vienna or Salzburg , you could pay 3.02 percent per person on top of the hotel bill. 

Belgium , like Austria, has a nightly fee. Some hotels include it in the rate of the room and add it separately to your bill, so read it carefully.

The rate in Brussels is charged per room, and varies depending on the size and rating of your hotel, but is usually around €7.50. Antwerp also charges per room. 

Bhutan has always been known for its steep tourist taxes and charges. In 2022, the Himalayan kingdom  tripled the amount it charged visitors in tax  to a minimum of  $200 per day , but that amount has since been lowered. In 2024, the daily fee for the majority of visitors is  $ 100,  and that is due to continue until August 31, 2027. 

Bulgaria applies a fee to overnight stays, but it reaches a maximum of only €1.50. 

Caribbean Islands

The following Caribbean Islands charge a tourist tax, ranging from between €13 to €45: Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, the Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, Bonaire, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, Dominica, the Dominican Republic , Grenada, Haiti, Jamaica, Montserrat, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Maarten, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, and the US Virgin Islands. 

The tax tends to be tied into the cost of a hotel or a departure fee. 

Croatia only charges its visitors a fee of 10 kuna (€1.33) per night during peak season. 

Czechia (also known as Czech Republic)

Czechia only applies a fee to those travelling to Prague . It doesn’t apply to those under the age of 18, and is less than €1 per person, per night. 

France ’s ‘taxe de séjour’ varies depending on city, and tends to be added to your hotel bill. It varies from €0.20 to €4 per person, per night. 

Earlier this month, Paris announced it would be increasing its fee by up to 200 percent for those staying in hotels, Airbnbs, and campsites, but that it plans to put the funds towards improving the city’s services and infrastructure. 

READ MORE: The cost of visiting Paris will soar this summer – here’s why

Germany charges visitors a ‘culture tax’ (kulturförderabgabe) and a ‘bed tax’ (bettensteuer) in certain cities, including Frankfurt , Hamburg and Berlin , which tends to be around five percent of your hotel bill. 

Greece ’s tourist tax is based on numbers. Specifically, how many stars a hotel has, and the number of rooms you’re renting. The fee was introduced by the Greek Ministry of tourism to help pay off the country’s debt, and can be anything from €4 per room.

Hungary charges visitors four percent of the price of their room, but only in Budapest . 

Iceland is introducing a tourist tax to protect its ‘unspoilt nature’ this year, which will cost between  €4 to €7 per night. It comes after annual tourist numbers reached an estimated 2.3 million per year. 

In Indonesia , the only destination which charges a tourist tax is Bali , and the fee is set to increase this February  to $10 (£7.70, €8.90, IDR 150,000) – but is a one-time entry fee, not a nightly tax. It apparently goes towards protecting the island’s ‘environment and culture.’

Much like in France, Italy ’s tourist tax varies depending on your location. Rome ’s fee is usually between €3 to €7 per night, but some smaller Italian towns charge more. 

Venice finally announced in September that its tourist tax, a €5 (£4.30, $5.40) fee which will be applicable on various days during high season, will launch in 2024. It only applies to day-trippers rather than those staying overnight, though.

Japan has a departure tax of around 1,000 yen (€8). 

Malaysia has a flat-rate tax which it applies to each night you stay, of around €4 a night. 

New Zealand

New Zealand ’s tax comes in the from of an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy of around €21 which much be paid upon arrival, but that does not apply to people from Australia. 

Netherlands

The Netherlands has both a land and water tax. Amsterdam is set to increase its fee  by 12.5 percent in 2024, making it the highest tourist tax in the European Union. 

Portugal has a low tourist tax of €2, which applies to all those over the age of 13. It’s only applicable on the first seven nights of your visit and applies in 13 Portuguese municipalities, including Faro, Lisbon and Porto.   

Olhão became the latest area to start charging the fee between April and October. Outside of this period, it gets reduced to €1 and is capped at five nights all year round. The money goes towards minimising the impact of tourism in the Algarve town. 

Slovenia also bases its tax on location and hotel rating. In larger cities and resorts, such as Ljubljana and Bled, the fee is higher, but still only around €3 per night. 

Spain 

Spain applies its Sustainable Tourism Tax to holiday accommodation in the Balearic Islands to each visitor over the age of sixteen. Tourists can be charged up to €4 per night during high season. 

Barcelona ’s city authorities announced they plan to increase the city’s tourist tax over the next two years – the fee is set to rise to €3.25 on April 1, 2024. The council said the money would go towards improving infrastructure and services. This is in addition to regional Catalan tax. 

Switzerland

Switzerland ’s tax varies depending on location, but the per person, per night cost is around €2.20. It tends to be specified as a separate amount on your accommodation bill. 

Thailand 

Thailand introduced a tourist tax to the price of flights in April 2022, in a similar effort to the Balinese aim of moving away from its rep as a ‘cheap’ holiday destination. The fee for all international visitors is 300 baht (£6.60, $9). 

The US has an ‘occupancy tax’ which applies across most of the country to travellers renting accommodation such as hotels, motels and inns. Houston is estimated to be the highest, where they charge you an extra 17 percent of your hotel bill. 

Hawaii  could be imposing a ‘green fee’ – initially set at $50 but since lowered to $25 – which would apply to every tourist over the age of 15. It still needs to be passed by lawmakers, but if approved, it wouldn’t be instated until 2025.

The European Union

Finally, the European Union is planning on introducing a tourist visa , due to start in 2024. The €7 application will have to be filled out by all non-Schengen visitors between the ages of 18 and 70, including Brits and Americans. 

READ MORE: Why sustainable tourism isn’t enough anymore

Stay in the loop: sign up to our   free Time Out Travel newsletter   for all the latest travel news. 

• Liv Kelly Contributing Writer

Share the story

An email you’ll actually love

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising

Time Out Worldwide

• All Time Out Locations
• North America
• South America
• South Pacific

• Playa Blanca Tourism
• Playa Blanca Hotels
• Playa Blanca Bed and Breakfast
• Playa Blanca Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Playa Blanca
• Playa Blanca Restaurants
• Things to Do in Playa Blanca
• Playa Blanca Travel Forum
• Playa Blanca Photos
• Playa Blanca Map
• All Playa Blanca Hotels
• Playa Blanca Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Playa Blanca
• Playa Blanca
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Tourist tax - Playa Blanca Forum

• Europe    
• Spain    
• Canary Islands    
• Lanzarote    
• Playa Blanca    

Tourist tax

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• Lanzarote forums
• Playa Blanca forum

Stayin at thb tropical island do you have to pay some sort of tourist tax my dad just come back from spain and had to pay it wen checked in so wondering is this every hotel thanks tina

Tourist Tax is not required for the Canaries (as yet) so you'll have nothing to pay to your hotel.

Thats good thanks x

That's not great Lanza. They will be wanting holidaymakers to pay for the harbour extension then

Sorry but I live here ...and see the budgets every year and the cuts imposed by central Govt.....and whole-heartedly agree with the imposition of a local touristic ´´tax´´...in fact simply a small contribution to improve services and environment for tourists to offset the rises in local taxes that we have to pay every year without seeing any of the benefits as most goes to the 3 main resorts. :(........imagine living in Bolton but having to pay for Blackpool´s services when you hardly go there ;(

I don`t mind paying the tax if the amount is reasonable and the money put to good use.

In Salou I paid 50 cents a night ------- 3.50 euros for a week ---- about £2. 75 or so.

Not really worth spoiling a holiday worrying about it.

Got to agree, though no-one really likes tax, looking at it like this:

"...in fact simply a small contribution to improve services and environment for tourists to offset the rises in local taxes that we have to pay every year without seeing any of the benefits as most goes to the 3 main resorts. :("

it's understandable. I don't wish to help ruin the things and places I want to visit. :)

It wouldn't bother us in the slightest. If the money helps towards the services we all use on holiday then I'm all for it. Resident tax payers shouldn't have to foot the bill for the increased strain we all put on those services.

• Scooters 10:52 am
• Where to stay 10:48 am
• Room type 5:51 am
• Villas Volcan (Ocean Dreams) May 03, 2024
• Hoopoe villas May 03, 2024
• Cesar manrique foundation May 02, 2024
• Books May 02, 2024
• Gyms in play blanca Lanzarote May 01, 2024
• Whats the name ... May 01, 2024
• Private Airport Transfer Apr 30, 2024
• Live Music Apr 28, 2024
• Supermarkets - Sunday Opening Apr 28, 2024
• Mosquito Apr 26, 2024
• Barcelo Playa Blanca or Barcelo Royal Level? Apr 26, 2024
• Lanzarote Waterpark 3 replies
• lanzasur splash resort! 16 replies
• playa blanca new waterpark? 146 replies
• Lanzasur splash resort-Playa blanca 69 replies
• Supermarkets in Playa Blanca 7 replies
• Lanzasur splash resort playa blanca 23 replies
• Kikoland 2 replies
• ferry to Corralejo 5 replies
• new waterpark for Paradise Island hotel 80 replies
• November in Playa Blanca 2 replies

Playa Blanca Hotels and Places to Stay

• Getting the Ferry to Fuerteventura
• Don't Buy JEWELLERY, ELECTRONICS OR CAMERAS in Lanzarote resorts
• Car Hirers Beware
• Medical Help in Playa Blanca

Canary Islands Tourist Tax

Currently, there is no Canary Islands Tourist Tax.

From time to time British newspapers get worked up and write articles suggesting the implementation of a Canary Islands tourist tax, similar to the one enacted in The Balearics in July 2016.

A tourist tax is an additional payment made once you get to your destination and is paid in local currency. It’s not included in the holiday cost, so for example, if you book a holiday to Mallorca, you will be billed separately at your hotel for an additional €2 per person, per night. It’s common to many destinations – you’ll pay a tourist tax in most of the US, German cities and all of Greece.

The idea behind that tax is that it ensures additional income for the destination to go towards the cost of providing services for tourists, and in some cases towards investment in environmental provisions.

The Canary Islands

There is currently no plan to introduce a Canary Islands Tourist Tax. One of the opposition parties has called for one to be introduced, specifically requesting that it be used for “environmental reasons.”

But it isn’t being discussed seriously currently, there isn’t a working party looking into the viability of it, and it doesn’t form part of the government’s manifesto.

So you can relax for now, as there won’t be a Canary Islands tourist tax anytime soon.

We’ll keep this article updated if and when anything changes.

Stay up to date with Lanzarote news via our famous weekly newsletter .

More reading:

Lanzarote In Numbers

2023 – A Record Year For Tourism

Fred Olsen Express’ 50th Anniversary

Charity Corner – Great Walk For Parkinson’s

• Gran Canaria
• Fuerteventura
• Tenerife - Best Places to stay
• Gran Canaria - Top Places to stay
• Lanzarote - Best Accommodation
• Fuerteventura - Best Places to Stay
• La Gomera - Where to stay
• La Palma - Best Accommodation
• El Hierro - Best Areas To Stay
• Tenerife weather
• Gran Canaria weather
• Lanzarote weather
• Fuerteventura weather
• La Palma weather
• La Gomera weather
• Tenerife Events
• Gran Canaria Events
• Lanzarote Events
• Fuerteventura Events
• La Palma Events
• La Gomera Events
• El Hierro Events
• Tenerife Attractions
• Gran Canaria Attractions
• Lanzarote Attractions
• Fuerteventura Attractions
• Tenerife Tours
• Gran Canaria Tours
• Lanzarote Tours
• Fuerteventura Tours

IGIC tax in the Canary Islands - What is it?

Have you ever wondered what the 7% IGIC tax is on when you've got your restaurant check in the Canary Islands?

What is IGIC in the Canary Islands?

We get this question often, so here is the answer: IGIC stands for "Impuesto General Indirecto Canario," which translates to the General Indirect Canary Islands Tax.

IGIC is a value-added tax (VAT) or consumption tax that applies in the Canary Islands, an autonomous community of Spain. IGIC is the equivalent of VAT (IVA in Spanish) that is applied in other parts of Spain and the European Union, but it is lower than VAT usually is.

The IGIC tax rate can vary depending on the type of goods or services being taxed. 

• General Rate: The standard rate is 7%.
• Reduced Rate: A reduced rate of 3% is applied to certain specific goods and services
• Super-Reduced Rate: A super-reduced rate of 0% applies to a very limited number of essential items, such as certain medicines.

Note for visitors: the IGIC on your restaurant check is not service tax, it's simply the equivalent of VAT

As a tourist visiting the Canary Islands, you will most often see the IGIC tax on your restaurant check, in the amount of 7%. This 7% tax that you see on your bill is not a service tax added by the restaurant, as some visitors assume, but it is just the IGIC tax (the equivalent of VAT) and it is NOT OPTIONAL to pay. 

The IGIC tax applies to the entire Canary Islands archipelago , so you will see it under this name in Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro and La Gracios. 

Where are the Canary Islands located? Are they part of Europe or Africa?

Types of Fish in Tenerife and the Canary Islands

Largest Canary Island - Facts about Spain's Canary Islands archipelago

Algal bloom in Tenerife and the Canary Islands in general

VIDEO: Feel good music with a view of Maspalomas dunes

Are there sharks in the Canary Islands?

• Playa Blanca Tourism
• Playa Blanca Hotels
• Bed and Breakfast Playa Blanca
• Playa Blanca Holiday Rentals
• Flights to Playa Blanca
• Playa Blanca Restaurants
• Playa Blanca Attractions
• Playa Blanca Travel Forum
• Playa Blanca Photos
• Playa Blanca Map
• All Playa Blanca Hotels
• Playa Blanca Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Playa Blanca
• Playa Blanca
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Holiday Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travellers' Choice
• Help Centre

Is there a Tourist Tax in Lanzarote? - Playa Blanca Forum

• Europe    
• Spain    
• Canary Islands    
• Lanzarote    
• Playa Blanca    

Is there a Tourist Tax in Lanzarote?

• United Kingdom Forums
• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Holiday Rentals
• Lanzarote forums
• Playa Blanca forum

I've paid Catalan tourist tax a few times. We are also going to Ibiza this year and been informed Balearic Tourist Tax of €2.2 per adult per night comes into effect from July this year.

Just wondering if Canaries already have it or planning on have it seeing as starting up in Balearic Islands.

No...there is no tourist tax payable in the Canaries......yet ;(

Thanks, always just thought there was Catalan Tourist Tax but when heard of Balearic starting from 1st July made think to double check.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

• Scooters 15:52
• Where to stay 15:48
• Room type 10:51
• Villas Volcan (Ocean Dreams) 03 May 2024
• Hoopoe villas 03 May 2024
• Cesar manrique foundation 02 May 2024
• Books 02 May 2024
• Gyms in play blanca Lanzarote 01 May 2024
• Whats the name ... 01 May 2024
• Private Airport Transfer 30 April 2024
• Live Music 28 April 2024
• Supermarkets - Sunday Opening 28 April 2024
• Mosquito 26 April 2024
• Barcelo Playa Blanca or Barcelo Royal Level? 26 April 2024
• Lanzasur splash resort-Playa blanca 69 replies
• Beware Sunmaster Holiday Bookings- Timanfaya Palace 111 replies
• new waterpark for Paradise Island hotel 80 replies
• Recommended Lanzarote Airport Transfers 24 replies
• Dream place Gran Castillo 6 replies
• playa blanca new waterpark? 146 replies
• H10 Rubicon Palace-Privilege upgrade 12 replies
• Flamingo Beach Resort - Angel Rivero's e-mail address! 16 replies
• Naturist Beach @ Papagayo 12 replies
• Dreamplace Gran Castillo, Lanzarote 37 replies

Playa Blanca Hotels and Places to Stay

• Getting the Ferry to Fuerteventura
• Don't Buy JEWELLERY, ELECTRONICS OR CAMERAS in Lanzarote resorts
• Car Hirers Beware
• Medical Help in Playa Blanca

News | World

Brits set to be hit by tourist tax in Tenerife from next year after protests on Spanish island

British tourists will have to contend with a new kind of tax being introduced in Tenerife on the back of mass protests about the number of visitors .

Visitors to the Spanish island will need to pay a currently undisclosed figure as part of plans to curb overtourism, reports the Sun . 

Tens of thousands were involved in rallies last weekend that were seen on Tenerife and on other Canary islands of Lanzarote and Gran Canaria. 

Protests also involved a hunger strike, wrote the Mail . 

A spokesman for protest platform Canarias Se Agota told the media: “Today, April 20, marks the 10th day of the hunger strike.

“Today we cannot forget these people who are putting their lives at risk for our Earth.

“Their determination inspires, their bravery moves us, their sacrifice reminds us that this struggle is everyone's and for everyone.”

The new tax will come in on New Year’s Day 2025. 

It is understood that it will not be applied to tourists upon accessing the island but instead the charge will be made for visits to natural spots and beauty sites. 

This includes visits to the volcano Mount Teide and hamlets such as Masca while islanders will also be charged.

Rosa Dávila, the first female president of Tenerife, said: “We must analyse the exceptionalities that can be applied in a territory as fragile and limited as ours. What is clear is that Tenerife cannot be a theme park.

"Those who visit us have to value and respect our natural and cultural wealth, our resources, and they have to be clear about the rules for their preservation.

"In addition, there have to be limits to prevent tourism from overflowing."

Pet Shop Boys’ Neil Tennant recalls ‘worst moment’ of his life at Glastonbury

British man fighting for his life after shark attack off Caribbean Island

Beachcomber, 13, finds ‘holy grail’ Lego octopus washed ashore from 1997 spill

Join the AXA Startup Angel webinar for tips to win £25,000

NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Bad news for Brits – Tenerife is slapping holidaymakers with new tourist tax

Share this with

Holidaymakers in Tenerife will soon have to pay a new eco tax when visiting famous nature spots on the island.

It comes after tens of thousands of people hit the streets in Tenerife last week to protest against tourism on the island, with UK tourists among the targets of anger.

Now officials have confirmed a new tax on holidaymakers, charged when they visit protected sites like Mount Teide volcano and some other rural parks.

The island council said on Friday that the new tax will kick in from January 1, 2025.

It did not rule out the possibility of adding more sites to the list, El Diario reports.

The island council Cabildo Tenerife said the new charge was necessary to safeguard the protected areas and to help control visitor numbers.

But the exact level of the tax will need parliament’s approval and a study into the proposal is ongoing, the council said.

The tax will apply to visitors at the Teide National Park, Anaga Rural Park and the Teno Park, including the historical Masca village, according to El Diario.

Canary Island protests

Messages in English left on walls and benches in and around Palm Mar during the protests in the southern part of the island included ‘My misery your paradise’ and ‘Average salary in Canary Islands is 1,200 euros’.

In an apparent UK backlash, a response left in English on a wall next to a ‘Tourists go home’ message said: ‘F**k off, we pay your wages.’

Chanting and whistling, protesters waved placards emblazoned with slogans reading ‘The Canary Islands are not up for sale!’ and ‘Respect my home’.

The Spanish islands off the coast of North Africa are an ever-popular destination among Brits hoping to escape the cold on the mainland.

One demonstrator said: ‘It’s not a message against the tourist, but against a tourism model that doesn’t benefit this land and needs to be changed.’

Protests also took place in the other islands in the archipelago, including Lanzarote and Gran Canaria, with support demos scheduled for the Spanish mainland in cities like Malaga and Madrid as well as London and Berlin.

The Canary Islands protests were organised under the slogan ‘Canarias Tiene Un Limite’ which in English translates as ‘The Canary Islands have a limit.”

The backdrop to the demos is an ongoing hunger strike six men and women began on April 11 outside a church in the northern Tenerife town of La Laguna.

Speaking ahead of the start of today’s demonstrations, a spokesman for protest platform Canarias Se Agota, which the hunger strikers are affiliated to, said: ‘Today, April 20, marks the 10th day of the hunger strike.

‘Today we cannot forget these people who are putting their lives at risk for our Earth.

‘Their determination inspires, their bravery moves us, their sacrifice reminds us that this struggle is everyone’s and for everyone.

‘We are writing a new chapter in the history of our islands, a chapter marked by the unwavering perseverance of those who bravely defend our home.

‘Today the Canary Islands will scream and fight, and tomorrow it will continue to do so.’

Protest groups including Canarias Se Agota, which in English translates literally as ‘The Canary Islands are Exhausted’, want the authorities to paralyse two tourist projects including one which involves the construction of a five-star hotel by one of Tenerife’s last virgin beaches.

They are also seeking a commitment from regional politicians to change the tourist model and protect islands like Tenerife from the worst excesses of mass tourism, including sea pollution, traffic gridlock and lack of cheap affordable housing linked to the pushing-up of property prices because of Airbnb-style holiday lets.

Other demands include the protection of natural spaces, a tourist tax and better working conditions for hotel cleaners, who joined today’s protest in Santa Cruz as they insisted to local press: ‘We are not slaves.’

The archipelago of 2.2 million people was visited by nearly 14 million foreign tourists in 2023, up 13% from the previous year, according to official data.

Authorities in the islands are concerned about the impact on locals.

A draft law expected to pass this year toughening the rules on short lets follows complaints from residents priced out of the housing market.

Canary Islands president Fernando Clavijo said on Friday he felt ‘proud’ that the region was a leading Spanish tourist destination, but acknowledged that more controls were needed as the sector continues to grow.

‘We can’t keep looking away. Otherwise, hotels will continue to open without any control,’ he told a press conference. 

In the Gran Canaria capital Las Palmas, marchers carried banners in Spanish which said: ‘It’s not phobia, it’s love for my land.’

A woman protestor held up another which said: ‘Fourteen million tourists a year but 36 per cent of Canarians at risk of poverty.’

One of the other banners exhibited by protestors said: ‘The Canary Islands government is an estate agency.’

Another said: ‘With so much Airbnb where are we going to live?’

Paula Rincon told local press: ‘It pains me that Canarians cannot afford to live in their own neighbourhoods.’

Insisting the current tourism model led to ‘more people paying lower prices and badly-built hotels that destroyed beaches and protected areas’ she added: ‘I don’t know why we aspire to so many numbers when this doesn’t filter down to the rest of the population.

‘The current system doesn’t benefit us, it impoverishes us.’

The protests in the Canary Islands are mostly taking place away from the main tourist areas, which in Tenerife and Gran Canaria are in the south of the islands.

Some British holidaymakers have shown their support for the issues raised by the islanders but others have accused them of biting the hand that feeds them.

The Canary Islands’ tourism minister Jessica de Leon urged British holidaymakers not to cancel their holidays ahead of today’s demos.

Canary Islands regional president Fernando Clavijo initially admitted he was worried tourists might be put off coming to the area, before softening his message last week and describing the April 20 protests as an opportunity to ‘revise’ the current tourism model.

Jorge Marichal, president of regional hotel association ASHOTEL, has claimed tourists were ringing establishments to ask whether it was safe to come.

He has also insisted ‘non-regulated’ holiday lets are a big problem and the reason there is less control than there should be on the numbers of tourists in places like Tenerife.

Protest platform Canarias Se Agota has insisted it has nothing to do with the graffiti that has appeared in parts of Tenerife over recent weeks – and has accused regional politicians of blaming them of tourism-phobia as part of a ‘dirty tricks’ campaign.

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at [email protected] .

For more stories like this, check our news page .

MORE : Plane’s emergency exit slide falls off mid-air

MORE : Brits are flocking to ‘divine’ UK town that feels isolated from the rest of the world

MORE : Martin Lewis shares savvy shopping hack that could save you £30 on your Zara haul

Sign Up for News Updates

Get your need-to-know latest news, feel-good stories, analysis and more.

Privacy Policy

Get us in your feed