Bucharest Introduces Controversial Tourist Tax for 2026

Bucharest, Romania's capital, is set to implement a new tourist tax starting in 2026, charging visitors 10 Romanian Leu (approximately €2) per night for overnight stays. This flat-rate fee will apply to all tourists, regardless of the type of accommodation, and aims to generate around 15 million Romanian Leu (about €2.9 million) annually to promote the city as a tourist destination. The tax will be collected by accommodation providers, including hotels, hostels, and online booking platforms such as Airbnb and Booking.com.

EuronewsThe IndependentBucharest adds a new tourist tax in 2026 (and how much you’ll pay)

The General Council Municipality of Bucharest approved the tax on December 23, 2025, just four days after its draft publication. The council's objectives for the tax include increasing tourist numbers, extending visitor stays, boosting revenue for the tourism industry, and enhancing the overall tourism experience through increased investment. However, the specifics of how the collected funds will be utilized remain unclear, leading to concerns about transparency and effective implementation.

The Independent

The introduction of the tourist tax has sparked significant backlash from the Federation of the Romanian Hotel Industry (FIHR). Industry leaders argue that the legislation was rushed and lacked consultation with the private sector. They emphasize the need for a transparent plan regarding the allocation of the funds, stating, “Tourism needs partnership, not administrative improvisation.” Critics warn that without proper planning, the tax could deter potential visitors and undermine the recent growth in tourism, which has been bolstered by attractions like Bucharest's popular thermal spas.

The Independent

Deputy Mayor Stelian Bujduveanu has defended the tax, asserting that it will provide “added value” to the city through promotional activities and events that benefit the region. The council's documentation highlights the tax as a necessary measure to enhance Bucharest's appeal as a travel destination, aligning it with similar initiatives in other European cities like Amsterdam and Barcelona.

The Independent

For travelers, the tax will be reflected in accommodation bills, either included in the total price or charged separately at check-in or check-out. While the fee may seem minimal for short stays, it can accumulate significantly for longer visits or group travel. Travelers are advised to check the “taxes and charges” section when booking to avoid unexpected costs.

Bucharest adds a new tourist tax in 2026 (and how much you’ll pay)

While the city projects the tax will raise substantial funds for tourism promotion, critics within the hotel industry express skepticism about the tax's potential impact on visitor numbers and overall tourism health. The lack of a detailed plan for fund allocation raises questions about the effectiveness of the tax in achieving its stated goals.

The Independent

Bucharest's new tourist tax, set to take effect in 2026, aims to bolster the city's tourism sector amidst rising visitor numbers. However, the swift implementation and lack of transparency have led to significant criticism from industry stakeholders. As the city prepares for this change, both officials and the hotel industry will need to navigate the challenges of ensuring the tax serves its intended purpose without deterring potential visitors.

Euronews