Barcelona Tourist Tax 2025: What You Actually Pay
Complete breakdown of IEET regional tax + Barcelona municipal surcharge per night
We regularly verify this information against official sources. Always check official websites for the most current details before travel.
At a Glance
- •Two components: Catalonia regional IEET + Barcelona city surcharge
- •Total range: €4.60 to €7.50 per person, per night (+ 10% VAT)
- •Maximum: Capped at 7 nights per stay
- •Exemptions: Children under 16 don't pay
2025 Tax Rates by Accommodation Type
| Accommodation Type | Regional IEET | BCN Surcharge | Total/Night |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5-star hotel / Grand Luxury | €3.50 | €4.00 | €7.50 |
| 4-star hotel | €1.70 | €4.00 | €5.70 |
| 3-star hotel / Aparthotel | €1.20 | €4.00 | €5.20 |
| 1-2 star hotel / Hostel | €0.60 | €4.00 | €4.60 |
| Tourist apartment (HUT) | €2.25 | €4.00 | €6.25 |
| Camping / RV Park | €0.60 | €0.00 | €0.60 |
| Cruise passenger (>12h) | €2.00 | €4.00 | €6.00 |
* Plus 10% VAT on all amounts. Prices shown are per person, per night.
What Changed in 2024-2025?
October 1, 2024
Barcelona municipal surcharge increased from €3.25 to €4.00 per night
May 1, 2025
Catalonia updated IEET framework with revised rates and brackets via Decret llei 6/2025
Future Consideration
The Catalan government has approved legislation allowing Barcelona to potentially double its municipal surcharge to €8.00, though this hasn't been implemented yet.
Real Examples: What You'll Pay
Family of 4 - 3-star Hotel (5 nights)
- 2 adults × €5.20 × 5 nights = €52.00
- 2 children (under 16) = €0.00
- Total: €52.00 (+ €5.20 VAT) = €57.20
Couple - Tourist Apartment (10 nights)
- 2 adults × €6.25 × 7 nights (capped) = €87.50
- Nights 8-10: No charge
- Total: €87.50 (+ €8.75 VAT) = €96.25
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I pay the tourist tax?
Usually at check-in or check-out at your accommodation. It's rarely included in the booking price.
Do I pay if I'm from another part of Spain?
Yes, all tourists pay regardless of origin - including Spanish residents from outside Catalonia.
What about Airbnb or vacation rentals?
Licensed tourist apartments (HUT) pay €6.25 per night (€2.25 IEET + €4.00 municipal). Unlicensed rentals shouldn't be collecting tax but may face other legal issues.
Is the tax per room or per person?
Per person. Each adult guest pays the full rate for their accommodation type.
Official Sources & Links
- Barcelona City Council - Tourist Establishments Tax(Municipal surcharge information)
- Generalitat de Catalunya - IEET Tax(Regional tax rates and regulations)
- Decret llei 6/2025 - DOGC(2025 tax framework update)
Where Does the Money Go?
The tourist tax revenue is allocated to:
- •25% - Housing policies and affordable housing initiatives
- •Tourism infrastructure - Improving tourist areas and facilities
- •Sustainability - Managing overtourism impacts
- •Local services - Supporting services affected by tourism
In 2024, Catalonia raised ~€90 million from the tourist tax. With 2025 increases, this is projected to reach ~€200 million annually.