Lisbon Doubles Tourist Tax: What Visitors Need to Know

The capital of Portugal, Lisbon, is raising its tourist tax by two times.

A popular tourist spot in Lisbon is the Belem Tower / Flickr

According to The Portugal News, Lisbon is raising its tourist tax from 2 euros per night to 4 euros, the first increase in 2019 for five years.

The mayor of Lisbon, Carlos Moedas, stated that the city council decided to raise the tourist tax to improve the city’s development and the quality of life for Lisbon citizens. He further mentioned that tourism quality will naturally improve as the city develops.

Then, Moedas said, “The Lisbon City Council has already approved the increase in tourist tax.” He also mentioned, “After 30 days of negotiation, the tourist tax will finally be increased”.

The tourist tax collecting method remains the same as directly conducted at the hotel check-in on-site. Regardless of the hotel’s grade, the tax is charged based on the number of nights of stay.

Another famous tourist spot in Lisbon is the St. George Castle / Flickr

Lisbon introduced a tourist tax policy in 2016 to support the city’s development for 1 euro per night; in 2019, the tax was increased to 2 euros.

Lisbon is a coastal city in the west of Portugal known for its mild climate and beautiful natural scenery. It attracts many tourists yearly, and some famous tourist spots include the Belem Tower and the St. George Castle.