Edinburgh has officially approved a tourist tax for overnight visitors, making it the first city in the United Kingdom to implement such a charge. The levy will come into effect by mid-2026, applying to various types of accommodations, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, hostels, self-catering apartments, and guest houses.
How the Tax Works
The new policy requires visitors to pay a 5% fee on their nightly accommodation cost, capped at five consecutive nights. This means travelers staying longer will only pay the charge for the first five nights of their stay.
Accommodation providers will be responsible for collecting the fee and submitting it to local authorities. The funds generated are expected to support public services and infrastructure that benefit both residents and tourists.
Why Edinburgh Introduced the Levy
With nearly 5 million overnight visitors in 2023, tourism plays a significant role in Edinburgh’s economy. Visitors spent approximately £2.2 billion ($2.7 billion) that year, contributing heavily to local businesses and attractions. However, city officials argue that tourism also puts pressure on infrastructure, services, and resources.
Jane Meagher, head of the City of Edinburgh Council, emphasized the need for sustainable tourism management, stating that funds from the levy would help the city develop in a planned and structured way.
By 2028 or 2029, officials estimate the new tax will generate between £45-50 million ($56-62 million) annually.
Public Response and Adjustments
The idea of a tourist tax has been discussed since 2018, becoming a possibility after the Visitor Levy (Scotland) Act was passed in July. According to the legislation, revenue collected must be used to support local services and facilities heavily utilized by visitors.
Before the final vote, the city held a public consultation. While over half of Edinburgh residents and business owners supported the tax, 62% of visitors opposed it or felt the charge should be lower.
Initially, officials proposed a seven-night cap, but after receiving feedback from organizations such as Visit Scotland and Edinburgh Festivals, the limit was reduced to five nights. This change acknowledges the extended stays of festival performers and workers, who contribute to the city’s renowned arts and cultural scene.
Following European Trends
Edinburgh now joins a growing number of European cities implementing tourist taxes to manage the impact of large visitor numbers.
- Wales is considering similar legislation.
- Venice recently tested a day-tripper fee, generating significant revenue.
- Amsterdam has one of the highest tourist taxes in Europe, charging 5% per night on hotel stays, as well as a €14.50 ($15.20) fee per cruise passenger.
With this move, Edinburgh aims to balance tourism growth with sustainability, ensuring that both visitors and locals benefit from the city’s cultural and economic vibrancy.
