Popular Spanish City Doubles Tourist Tax

The popular tourist city of Barcelona has announced that it will be raising its tourist tax surcharge by €1 (86p) each year until it reaches €8 (£6.90) in 2029, double its current rate.

In reality this is a relatively small fee, which will contribute to the running of the city including public transport, safety and amenities.

“Managing tourism is common sense in this city,” said Esquerra Republicana (ERC) leader Elisenda Alamany. “Recovering that income allows us to ensure balance and build a successful city.”

Deputy Mayor for Economy and Tourism, Jordi Valls also noted that the tourist surcharge has already helped fund key areas in the city such as public transport, safety and climate initiatives.