The tourist tax in France 2025 applies to travelers staying overnight in hotels, hostels, vacation rentals, and guesthouses. Cities like Paris, Lyon, Nice, and Marseille use this tax to maintain infrastructure, preserve historic landmarks, and support tourism-related services.
Whether you’re exploring the Eiffel Tower in Paris, historic districts in Lyon, or the beaches of Nice, knowing the tax rates and exemptions is essential for budget planning. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of city-specific fees, tables, traveler tips, latest news, and FAQs, making your trip to France stress-free.
1. Paris Tourist Tax 2025
City Overview
Paris is one of the world’s most visited cities, attracting tourists for its museums, historic monuments, gastronomy, and cultural events. The city’s tourist tax contributes to the maintenance of these attractions.
Tax Rates & Rules
- Rate:
- €0.90 per night – 1-star hotels
- €1.80 – 2-star hotels
- €2.25 – 3-star hotels
- €4.00 – 4-star hotels
- €5.00 – 5-star hotels
- Max Nights Charged: 14 nights
- Exemptions: Children under 18, residents, medical stays, long-term students
| Hotel Category | Rate per Night | Max Nights | Exemptions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Star | €0.90 | 14 | Children <18, residents |
| 2 Star | €1.80 | 14 | Children <18, residents |
| 3 Star | €2.25 | 14 | Children <18, residents |
| 4 Star | €4.00 | 14 | Children <18, residents |
| 5 Star | €5.00 | 14 | Children <18, residents |
Traveler Tips
- Stay slightly outside the city center (Montreuil, Saint-Denis) to save on accommodation and tax.
- Check if your booking includes the tax to avoid surprises at check-in.
- Family trips save money as children under 18 are exempt.
2. Lyon Tourist Tax 2025
City Overview
Lyon is famous for its culinary scene, Renaissance architecture, and historic districts. The tourist tax helps maintain public spaces and heritage sites.
Tax Rates & Rules
- Rate: €1.00–€4.00 per person/night depending on hotel category
- Max Nights Charged: 7 nights
- Exemptions: Children under 18, residents, long-term students
| Hotel Category | Rate per Night | Max Nights | Exemptions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1–2 Star | €1.00 | 7 | Children <18, residents |
| 3 Star | €2.00 | 7 | Children <18 |
| 4 Star | €3.00 | 7 | Children <18 |
| 5 Star | €4.00 | 7 | Children <18 |
Traveler Tips
- Stay in districts like Part-Dieu or Perrache for lower prices while remaining close to attractions.
- Off-season visits (March–May or Sept–Nov) reduce costs and avoid crowds.
3. Nice Tourist Tax 2025
City Overview
Nice, on the French Riviera, attracts tourists for its beaches, Promenade des Anglais, and sunny climate. The tax funds city maintenance and sustainable tourism initiatives.
Tax Rates & Rules
- Rate: €0.90–€5.00 per night based on hotel category
- Max Nights Charged: 7 nights
- Exemptions: Children under 18, long-term residents, medical stays
| Hotel Category | Rate per Night | Max Nights | Exemptions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Star | €0.90 | 7 | Children <18 |
| 2 Star | €1.50 | 7 | Children <18 |
| 3 Star | €2.00 | 7 | Children <18 |
| 4 Star | €3.50 | 7 | Children <18 |
| 5 Star | €5.00 | 7 | Children <18 |
Traveler Tips
- Consider staying in nearby towns like Villefranche-sur-Mer or Antibes to save on accommodation and tax.
- Shoulder season (May–June, Sept–Oct) offers lower rates and pleasant weather.
4. Marseille & Other French Cities
| City | Rate per Night | Max Nights | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marseille | €0.90–€4.00 | 7 | Hotels & B&Bs |
| Bordeaux | €1.00–€3.50 | 7 | Seasonal variation |
| Strasbourg | €1.00–€3.00 | 7 | Applies to all hotel categories |
| Toulouse | €1.00–€3.50 | 7 | Children <18 exempt |
Traveler Tips
- Smaller cities or suburbs often have lower rates, e.g., Saint-Émilion near Bordeaux.
- Booking early often secures better rates and tax-included accommodations.
5. Practical Tips for France Tourist Tax
- Confirm tax inclusion before booking your hotel.
- Travel in spring or autumn to save on both accommodation and tax.
- Children under 18 are usually exempt; plan family stays accordingly.
- Consider staying outside major cities while maintaining easy transport access.
6. Latest News & Updates (2024–2025)
- Paris: Tourist tax revenue increased post-COVID due to record tourist arrivals.
- Nice & French Riviera: Airbnb and short-term rentals strictly regulated to ensure tax collection.
- Lyon: Minor incremental hikes planned for luxury hotels in 2025.
- Bordeaux & Marseille: Digital systems introduced to make payment easier.
7. FAQs: Tourist Tax in France 2025
Q1. Who pays France’s tourist tax?
All adult visitors staying overnight in hotels, hostels, or short-term rentals.
Q2. Are children exempt?
Yes, usually under 18 in most cities.
Q3. How much will I pay in Paris for a week?
Between €6.30 (1-star) and €70 (5-star, 14 nights).
Q4. Is the tax included in bookings?
Sometimes yes, sometimes no. Confirm at booking.
Q5. Can I avoid paying in major cities?
Only by staying in nearby towns or suburbs outside city limits.
8. Conclusion
The tourist tax in France 2025 is a small but important fee that supports city infrastructure, heritage preservation, and sustainable tourism. By understanding rates in Paris, Lyon, Nice, Marseille, and other cities, travelers can plan budgets effectively, save money, and enjoy their trip. Off-season travel and staying just outside city centers are excellent strategies to minimize costs.