Published on
November 10, 2025
In 2026, Greece, Spain, Italy, Norway, Thailand, and Japan are taking bold steps to address the challenges of over-tourism with the introduction of groundbreaking tourist taxes. These new levies are designed to mitigate the strain on popular destinations, safeguard cultural heritage, and protect natural resources from the negative effects of mass tourism. By funding essential infrastructure improvements, supporting environmental conservation, and promoting sustainable travel practices, these countries are ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy their iconic attractions without compromising their integrity. This proactive approach not only enhances the visitor experience but also strengthens long-term tourism sustainability.
Thailand: A New Entry Fee for Tourists
Thailand is set to implement a 300-baht entry fee for foreign visitors starting in February 2026. This fee, known as “Kha Yeap Pan Din,” will apply to all travelers arriving by air, land, and sea. A portion of the fee, 70 baht, will be used to provide travel insurance for tourists, while the remaining funds will support infrastructure projects and emergency services. The fee will be collected by airlines and border authorities, with possible exemptions for frequent travelers and work visa holders. This initiative is part of Thailand’s broader effort to balance its booming tourism industry with the need to invest in local infrastructure and ensure long-term sustainability.
Japan: Hotel Taxes and Mount Fuji Entry Fee
Japan is also introducing measures to combat the effects of over-tourism. Starting in March 2026, Kyoto will implement a tiered hotel tax, ranging from ¥200 per night for budget accommodations to ¥10,000 for luxury hotels. The city expects to raise ¥12.6 billion annually, which will be used to improve transportation and manage tourist crowds. In addition to the hotel tax, a ¥4,000 entry fee will be required to climb Mount Fuji. To limit overcrowding and ensure safety, the number of climbers will be capped at 4,000 per day, and climbers must make an advance reservation. These steps are intended to preserve Japan’s cultural and natural landmarks while accommodating the growing number of tourists.
Norway: Municipal Tax on Tourism
Norway will introduce a national tourism tax by the summer of 2026. This tax will allow municipalities to charge up to 3% on overnight stays and cruise visits. Popular tourist destinations, such as Bergen, Tromsø, and Geiranger, will be among the first to apply the levy. The revenue generated will help fund maintenance of essential infrastructure like trails, toilets, and parking areas, which are vital for sustaining tourism in the country’s delicate fjord and Arctic regions. This new tax is designed to support local communities and preserve the natural beauty that attracts visitors from around the world.
Greece: Disembarkation Fees for Cruise Passengers
Greece is tackling overcrowding on its islands by introducing a disembarkation fee for cruise passengers. Starting in 2026, travelers will pay €12 in popular destinations like Santorini and Mykonos during the off-season, rising to €20 in the peak summer months. Smaller islands will charge €3, which will increase to €5 during the summer season. The revenue from these fees will be used to improve port infrastructure, manage waste, and implement crowd control measures, ensuring that Greece’s islands can continue to attract tourists without being overwhelmed by the sheer volume of visitors.
Italy: Venice Reinforces Day-Visitor Fee
Venice, a city struggling with the impacts of mass tourism, will reinstate its day-visitor fee starting in 2026. Visitors who book in advance will pay a €5 entry fee, while those making last-minute reservations will face a €10 charge. This fee will apply to 54 high-traffic days between April and July, with visitors required to register via QR code for entry. The goal is to manage the large influx of short-term visitors and reduce the strain on the city’s infrastructure. The fee generated €2.4 million in 2024, which was used to improve city services and maintain the historic city center.
Spain: Regional Tourism Taxes Expand
Spain is expanding its tourist tax system, with several regions introducing or increasing taxes on accommodations and cruise visits. In Barcelona and the wider Catalonia region, visitors will pay €4 per night in 2026, which will rise to €5 by 2029. Other regions like Galicia, the Basque Country, and the Balearic Islands are also implementing similar taxes. These funds will go toward preserving cultural heritage, protecting the environment, and promoting sustainability initiatives. Spain’s broader approach to taxing tourists is designed to ensure that the country’s popular destinations remain sustainable and accessible for years to come.
In 2026, Greece, Spain, Italy, Norway, Thailand, and Japan are introducing groundbreaking tourist taxes to combat over-tourism, preserve cultural heritage, and promote sustainable travel for future generations. These measures aim to protect iconic destinations and ensure long-term tourism sustainability.
A Shift Toward Sustainable Tourism
The introduction of new tourist taxes in countries around the world signals a broader shift toward responsible and sustainable tourism practices. While these taxes may slightly increase the cost of travel, they are essential for ensuring that popular tourist destinations are protected from the negative effects of over-tourism. The revenue generated will be used to enhance infrastructure, improve visitor experiences, and support environmental and cultural preservation efforts. These measures represent a growing recognition that the long-term health of the tourism industry relies on balancing growth with sustainability.
For travelers, these new fees are a small price to pay for the privilege of experiencing some of the world’s most iconic destinations. These funds will help ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy these locations, while also supporting local communities and preserving the cultural and environmental integrity of the places we love to visit. As global tourism continues to expand, these taxes serve as a reminder of the importance of responsible travel and the role we all play in protecting the world’s most cherished places.
