Home
»
TOURISM NEWS
»
UK Joins France, Italy, Spain, Norway, Netherlands and More as Surprising New Travel Taxes and Fees across Europe in 2026 will Impact Your Budget and Could Make Your Dream Vacation More Expensive Than Expected: Here’s What You Need To Know
Published on
January 3, 2026
Travelers will face increased expenses as they get ready for their European adventures in 2026 because of new travel taxes and fees that have been implemented in the UK, France, Italy, Spain, Norway, the Netherlands, and other nations. These unforeseen fees, which range from overnight levies and eco-taxes for hiking to entry fees at well-known attractions, are intended to control overtourism and finance regional infrastructure. Even though these costs are intended to promote sustainability, they will have a big effect on your travel budget and could make your ideal vacation more costly than you had anticipated. Here’s what you should know to avoid these extra expenses.
Traveling through Europe in 2026 will be filled with exciting opportunities, but it’s important for travelers to be aware of the growing number of unexpected fees and taxes that may pop up during their adventures. From new entry charges for popular attractions to unexpected city taxes, travelers could face hidden costs that make their vacations more expensive than anticipated.
Europe is no stranger to rising tourism costs, and with overtourism becoming a significant issue, many cities are introducing new levies to manage the influx of visitors. The result is a shift toward additional fees that aim to support local infrastructure and sustainable tourism practices. This guide highlights some of the most notable changes in tourist charges that travelers to Europe can expect in 2026. Whether it’s paying for access to iconic landmarks or extra taxes on overnight stays, understanding these costs in advance will help avoid surprises while planning your trip.
Rome: A Fee for Iconic Landmarks
Rome, one of Europe’s most visited cities, will introduce an entry fee to several previously free attractions starting in February 2026. Among these is the world-famous Trevi Fountain, where visitors will now need to pay a €2 fee to get a closer view of the landmark. Although the fee will only apply to those wanting to approach the fountain, it will still be a significant change for travelers who once enjoyed free access to the site. However, visitors will still be able to enjoy a distant view of the fountain without charge. The fee aims to help fund maintenance and preserve the city’s cultural heritage.
Fee: €2 (one-time fee)
Effective from: February 1, 2026
Edinburgh Introduces an Overnight Tax
As the first city in the UK to introduce a tax on overnight stays, Edinburgh will begin charging tourists a small fee starting in July 2026. The overnight levy will amount to 5% of the pre-VAT room fare for the first five nights of a stay, with any subsequent nights being exempt. The revenue generated will be used to support local cultural events, enhance infrastructure, and ensure the city’s tourism sector remains sustainable in the long term. The move is part of a wider trend to redistribute the income from tourism back into local communities.
Fee: 5% of the room rate per night for the first five nights
Effective from: July 24, 2026
Venice’s Tourist Tax Returns
In Venice, a city famous for its picturesque canals and grand history, the return of the tourist tax is set to take effect in 2026. Between April and July, visitors will be charged a €5 fee to access the city during peak tourist days. This daytrip fee will be implemented on select days and is part of an ongoing effort to curb overcrowding and mitigate the environmental impact of mass tourism. The city hopes that the revenue from this tax will help fund sustainable tourism initiatives and infrastructure improvements.
Fee: €5 per day
Effective from: April 2026
Tenerife Eco-Tax for Hikers
Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, is not only known for its beautiful beaches but also for its hiking trails, particularly around Mount Teide. Starting in January 2026, a new eco-tax will be introduced for hikers wishing to explore some of the park’s most popular routes. The fees, ranging from €10 for guided hikes to €25 for solo hikers, are designed to support the conservation of the park’s unique biodiversity and help maintain the trails. This eco-tax aligns with Tenerife’s efforts to promote sustainable tourism and protect its natural landscapes.
Fee: €10–€25 depending on the route
Effective from: January 1, 2026
Zaans Schans in the Netherlands: Daytrip Fee for Windmill Lovers
In the charming Dutch village of Zaans Schans, a small yet iconic destination known for its windmills, an entry fee will be introduced in 2026. This picturesque village, home to only 100 residents, saw over 2.4 million visitors last year. In an effort to manage the overwhelming number of day-trippers, local authorities will charge a fee of €17.50 per person starting in the spring of 2026. This new fee will help preserve the village’s heritage and reduce the impact of tourism on local life.
Fee: €17.50 per day
Effective from: Spring 2026
Norway’s Visitor Contribution Tax
Norway, a country renowned for its stunning fjords and picturesque landscapes, has been debating the introduction of a tourist tax for several years. In the summer of 2026, a “visitor’s contribution” tax will finally be introduced. This tax will be set at 3% of the cost of accommodation and will be applied on a discretionary basis by individual authorities, meaning it may not be charged in every location. It will also not apply to those staying in tents or caravans. The revenue from this fee will be used to enhance the tourist experience and maintain Norway’s pristine natural beauty.
Fee: 3% of accommodation costs
Effective from: Summer 2026
Changes to UK Visa Applications: The ETIAS Fee
UK nationals traveling to Europe will be subject to a new requirement in 2026: the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). This new visa waiver system will require UK nationals to apply and pay a fee of £17 (€19.50) for authorization to travel within the Schengen Zone. Once approved, the ETIAS will be valid for three years, allowing for multiple entries into the Schengen Area. This will be a mandatory requirement for UK nationals, as part of a broader initiative to increase security and streamline travel across European borders.
Fee: £17 (€19.50)
Effective from: End of 2026
The Growing Trend of Extra Charges in European Tourism
While many of these fees may seem small individually, they add up over time and could surprise travelers who aren’t aware of these new charges. As overtourism continues to put pressure on Europe’s most visited cities and attractions, these fees are likely to become more common across the continent. However, these charges also represent a shift towards more sustainable tourism, where the funds collected are reinvested into preserving the local environment, culture, and infrastructure for future generations of travelers.
Travelers should stay informed about these changes to avoid any surprises when they arrive at their destination. It’s advisable to check the specific fees for the cities or attractions you plan to visit, as they can vary by location and season. Whether it’s a small surcharge for a landmark, an eco-tax for a hiking trail, or an overnight stay levy, being prepared for these costs can help make your trip more enjoyable and budget-friendly.
Tips for Managing Extra Travel Costs
- Plan Ahead: Research your destination and be aware of any new fees or taxes that may apply during your visit.
- Check Accommodation Policies: Some accommodations may include taxes or additional charges in the price, while others may add them separately.
- Consider Travel Insurance: Some insurance policies cover additional costs related to unexpected travel fees, offering peace of mind if charges arise.
- Budget for Unexpected Expenses: Always have extra cash or a card available to cover any fees that might not be included in the advertised cost of your trip.
New travel taxes and fees across the UK, France, Italy, Spain, Norway, the Netherlands, and more in 2026 will impact your budget, as they aim to manage overtourism and support local infrastructure, potentially making your dream vacation more expensive than expected. Here’s what you need to know.
By staying informed and planning ahead, travelers can navigate the growing list of additional fees in Europe and enjoy their vacations without unexpected financial stress. In 2026, being prepared for these changes will ensure that your European adventures remain as enjoyable and hassle-free as possible.
