The tourist tax in Spain 2025 affects millions of visitors staying in hotels, hostels, and other accommodations across popular cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Ibiza. Introduced to support local tourism infrastructure and preserve cultural sites, the tax varies by city, type of accommodation, and season.
Understanding these taxes is essential for budget-conscious travelers, as rates differ between mainland cities and islands. This guide will cover city-specific fees, exemptions, traveler tips, tables for easy comparison, and FAQs, making it your one-stop resource for planning a trip to Spain.
1. Barcelona Tourist Tax
Barcelona is one of Spain’s most visited cities, famous for Gaudí architecture, beaches, and vibrant nightlife.
- Rate (2025): €2.50 per person, per night for 2–3-star hotels, €3.50 for 4-star, €4.50 for 5-star hotels
- Max Nights Charged: 7 nights
- Exemptions: Children under 16, residents, long-term stays, students
- Maximum Cost: €31.50 per adult (5-star hotel, 7 nights)
| Hotel Category | Rate per Night | Max Nights | Exemptions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2–3 Star | €2.50 | 7 | Children <16, residents |
| 4 Star | €3.50 | 7 | Children <16, residents |
| 5 Star | €4.50 | 7 | Children <16, residents |
Traveler Tip: Book early in advance; some hotels include the tourist tax in the total price, while others charge separately at check-in.
2. Madrid Tourist Tax
Madrid, the capital city, has implemented a tourist tax for overnight stays in hotels, hostels, and short-term rentals.
- Rate (2025): €2 per person, per night (applies to 2–5 star hotels)
- Max Nights Charged: 7 nights
- Exemptions: Children under 16, medical stays, long-term students
| Hotel Category | Rate per Night | Max Nights | Exemptions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2–3 Star | €2.00 | 7 | Children <16, medical stays |
| 4–5 Star | €3.00 | 7 | Children <16, long-term students |
Traveler Tip: Madrid’s tax is relatively low compared to Barcelona. Consider staying in Chamartín or Chamberí districts to enjoy central access without high hotel prices.
3. Ibiza Tourist Tax
Ibiza applies a higher tax, especially in peak season, to fund island maintenance and sustainable tourism initiatives.
- Rate (2025): €2.20 per person/night (low season), €3.00 (high season)
- Max Nights Charged: 7 nights
- Exemptions: Children under 16, long-term stays, cruise passengers
| Season | Rate per Night | Max Nights | Exemptions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low (Nov–Apr) | €2.20 | 7 | Children <16 |
| High (May–Oct) | €3.00 | 7 | Children <16 |
Traveler Tip: Visiting in shoulder seasons (May–June or September–October) saves money while still enjoying good weather and lively events.
4. Other Cities & Regions with Tourist Taxes
While Barcelona, Madrid, and Ibiza are the most popular, other cities in Spain have tourist taxes:
| City | Rate per Night | Max Nights | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Valencia | €1.00–€2.00 | 7 | Applies to hotels >3 stars |
| Seville | €1.00–€2.50 | 7 | Seasonal variation |
| Mallorca | €2.20–€3.00 | 7 | Children <16 exempt |
| Granada | €1.50 | 7 | Applies to 4–5 star hotels |
Traveler Tip: For budget travelers, smaller towns like Valencia or Granada offer lower taxes and fewer crowds, while still providing rich cultural experiences.
5. Practical Tips for Spain Tourist Tax
- Check booking details: Some platforms include the tax in the total, others add it at check-in.
- Travel off-peak: Avoid high season (June–August) for lower taxes, especially in Ibiza.
- Children exemptions: Most cities exempt children under 16, so families can save.
- Consider nearby towns: Staying slightly outside city centers can reduce both accommodation cost and tax.
6. Latest News & Updates (2024–2025)
- Barcelona: Tax revenue increased in 2024 due to higher tourism post-COVID.
- Madrid: Considering slight increases for luxury hotels in 2025.
- Ibiza: Implemented stricter regulations for short-term rentals and Airbnb to ensure proper tax collection.
- Mallorca & Balearic Islands: Sustainable tourism initiatives funded by tourist taxes continue to expand.
7. FAQs: Tourist Tax in Spain 2025
Q1. What is the tourist tax in Spain?
A fee per night charged to travelers staying in hotels, hostels, or short-term rentals.
Q2. Who is exempt from Spain’s tourist tax?
Children under 16, residents, long-term students, and some medical or cruise passengers.
Q3. How much will I pay in Barcelona for a week?
Depending on hotel category, between €17.50 (2–3 star) and €31.50 (5-star).
Q4. Does Madrid charge the same as Barcelona?
No, Madrid’s tax is lower, usually €2–3 per night.
Q5. Can I avoid paying in Ibiza?
Only by staying outside main tourist zones or during low season for short-term rentals.
8. Conclusion
The tourist tax in Spain 2025 ensures cities can maintain public services and cultural sites while managing tourism sustainably. Travelers to Barcelona, Madrid, and Ibiza should plan for this additional cost, especially during peak season. By knowing the rates, exemptions, and smart tips, you can budget effectively and enjoy Spain stress-free.