Published on
January 30, 2026
In 2026, U.S. travelers will encounter higher travel expenses as several major destinations, including the UK, Japan, the Netherlands, Norway, Scotland, and France, roll out new tourist taxes. These measures are designed to control the growing number of visitors, enhance local infrastructure, and fund sustainability initiatives. The additional fees will apply to a wide range of travel experiences, from hotel stays and city visits to entrance fees for iconic landmarks. The goal is to ensure that tourism brings tangible benefits to local communities while supporting efforts to preserve the environment and cultural heritage in some of the world’s most sought-after destinations.
As travel costs rise in 2026, tourists can expect to pay more than just for flights and accommodations. New taxes and fees will soon be added to visits to popular cities, famous landmarks, and even overnight stays, making the overall travel experience significantly more expensive.
These new fees aim to help manage tourism growth, reduce overcrowding, and ensure that the revenue generated by visitors benefits the local populations. In some cases, they are also being used to boost environmental protections and fund sustainable tourism efforts. Below is a comprehensive guide to some of the most notable tourist taxes and fees going into effect in 2026 that will directly impact U.S. travelers.
United Kingdom ETA
Starting in 2026, U.S. travelers heading to the United Kingdom for short stays will need to apply for a new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). This new entry requirement comes with a £16 (about $22) fee. Travelers can apply for the ETA online or via the official UK ETA app. The approval process is typically quick, taking up to three working days, though it can often be faster. The ETA will be linked to the traveler’s passport, valid for two years or until the passport expires. Travelers will be able to use the same ETA for multiple entries during this period.
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European Union ETIAS
In late 2026, U.S. tourists visiting any of the 30 European Union countries for short stays (90 days or less) will be required to apply for the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). This new travel authorization will cost €20 (about $24) and will be linked to the traveler’s passport. The ETIAS will be valid for up to three years or until the passport expires. Travelers can apply through the ETIAS website or mobile app, and the approval process can take anywhere from a few minutes to several days. Travelers under 18 and over 70 are exempt from the fee.
City and State Taxes
Kyoto, Japan: Starting March 1, 2026, Kyoto will increase its existing tourist tax by a staggering 900%. This means travelers will be charged a fee of approximately $6 to $66 per night, depending on the nightly cost of their accommodation. This tax will be added to hotel bills, allowing the city to manage the influx of tourists while ensuring that the local infrastructure benefits from tourism.
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Hawaii, USA: Beginning January 2026, a new 10% tax will apply to hotel stays and vacation rentals in Hawaii, up from the previous rate of 9.25%. Additionally, a separate 11% levy on cruise ship passengers is currently under legal challenge. This new tax will fund sustainable tourism initiatives across the islands.
Edinburgh, Scotland: On July 24, 2026, Edinburgh will introduce a new 5% tax on overnight accommodations. The levy will apply to room rates, not additional services like room service, and is expected to raise significant funds for the city’s infrastructure and cultural programs, with projections of over £100 million by 2030.
Norway: In some of Norway’s most popular tourist regions, such as Tromsø and Lofoten, a new tourist tax will be introduced in summer 2026. The tax, which will apply to overnight accommodations, could be as high as 3%, depending on the region.
Netherlands: The Netherlands has significantly raised its tax on overnight accommodations. As of January 1, 2026, the tax on stays will increase from 9% to 21%, covering most types of accommodations, including hotels, hostels, and rentals through online platforms like Airbnb.
Increased Entry Fees for Popular Tourist Sites
Trevi Fountain, Rome: Starting February 1, 2026, tourists who want to get up close to the iconic Trevi Fountain in Rome will need to pay a €2 (about $2.40) fee. The funds collected from this fee will go toward managing the heavy tourist traffic in the city and ensuring that the fountain remains well-maintained.
Louvre Museum, Paris: From January 14, 2026, the Louvre Museum in Paris will increase its entrance fees by 45% for non-European visitors. The new fee for tourists from outside Europe will be €32 (about $38), up from €22. Groups of up to 20 people will pay €28. This price hike is part of efforts to manage visitor numbers and maintain the museum’s quality of service.
Palace of Versailles, France: Also effective from January 14, 2026, the Palace of Versailles will raise its entry fees for non-European visitors to €25 ($30). This price hike will help the palace continue its preservation efforts and provide a better experience for visitors.
Conclusion
As tourism continues to grow globally, so too does the pressure on destinations to balance economic benefits with sustainability. The implementation of new taxes and fees in 2026 reflects the desire to better manage tourism’s impact, fund essential infrastructure, and ensure that the benefits of tourism are spread to local communities. While these new charges may be an added cost to travelers, they also contribute to preserving the destinations and landmarks we all love to visit. Travelers should be aware of these new fees and make sure to budget accordingly, as the world of travel evolves in a way that seeks to balance visitor enjoyment with environmental stewardship.
