Planning a trip to Lisbon in 2025? Along with your flights and accommodation, you’ll need to budget for the Lisbon tourist tax. This fee is charged to visitors staying overnight in the city and is used to support local infrastructure, cultural preservation, and tourism services.
The Lisbon tourist tax 2025 is not a hidden cost. Instead, it is a small contribution from travelers that helps the city manage its growing popularity as one of Europe’s top destinations.
What Is the Lisbon Tourist Tax?
The Lisbon tourist tax, also called a city tax, is a small daily fee charged to travelers staying in hotels, guesthouses, hostels, or Airbnbs.
It was introduced to support:
- Public services such as transport, security, and cleaning.
- Cultural sites and landmarks that attract millions of visitors.
- Sustainability projects to reduce the impact of mass tourism.
Lisbon Tourist Tax Rates in 2025
As of 2025, the standard rate in Lisbon is:
- €2 per person, per night
- Applied to a maximum of 7 consecutive nights
- Children under 13 years old are exempt
👉 This means the maximum you’ll pay is €14 per person per stay.
Example costs:
- A solo traveler staying 3 nights = €6 total
- A couple staying 5 nights = €20 total
- A family with two adults and two children (under 13) for 4 nights = €16 total
The tax is usually collected by your hotel, hostel, or Airbnb host when you check in or out.
Who Needs to Pay the Tourist Tax?
- International visitors staying in Lisbon overnight.
- Travelers on business trips or leisure holidays.
- Guests in hotels, hostels, guesthouses, and short-term rentals.
Portuguese residents, children under 13, and long-term stays beyond the 7-night cap are exempt.
Why Does Lisbon Charge a Tourist Tax?
Lisbon has become one of Europe’s most visited cities, welcoming millions of tourists each year. While this brings economic benefits, it also creates challenges such as crowded public areas, higher waste management costs, and wear on historic sites.
The Lisbon tourist tax 2025 helps the city:
- Protect and maintain cultural heritage
- Improve urban infrastructure
- Support sustainable tourism projects
- Keep the city enjoyable for both residents and visitors
In other words, the small contribution from tourists ensures Lisbon remains a world-class travel destination.
How to Pay the Lisbon Tourist Tax
Paying the tax is easy and usually automatic:
- At Your Hotel or Rental – Most accommodations add the fee separately from your nightly rate.
- Payment Methods – You can usually pay by cash or card.
- Receipt Provided – Hotels and hosts are required to provide proof of payment.
Tip: Always check whether the tax is included in your booking or charged at check-in.
Comparison: Lisbon vs Other European Cities
Lisbon’s tourist tax is considered affordable compared to other cities in Europe:
- Barcelona: €2.25 – €3.50 per night
- Paris: €0.25 – €5 per night, depending on accommodation type
- Rome: €3 – €7 per night
- Amsterdam: 7% of the room rate + €3 per night
This makes Lisbon’s €2 fee relatively low, ensuring the city remains an accessible and budget-friendly destination.
Exemptions and Special Rules
In 2025, the following exemptions apply:
- Children under 13 years old – No tax required.
- Stays beyond 7 nights – You only pay for the first 7 nights.
- Medical stays with proof – Visitors coming for healthcare may be exempt.
Conclusion
The Lisbon tourist tax 2025 is a small fee that plays a big role in maintaining the city’s charm and sustainability. While the amount is minor for travelers, it helps Lisbon manage tourism responsibly, ensuring the city remains clean, vibrant, and welcoming.
If you’re planning your trip, remember to budget €2 per person per night for up to 7 nights. It’s a small price to pay for supporting one of Europe’s most beautiful and historic capitals.