Faro to raise tourist tax as visitor numbers surge in Portugal

Faro, the capital of Portugal's Algarve region, will increase its tourist tax from €1.50 to €2 per night during high season, effective March to October. The off-season tax will remain at €1 per night. The tax applies to adults aged 16 and older staying in various accommodations, with exemptions for certain groups. This change comes as Portugal sees a rise in tourism, with 13.1 million visitors from January to August 2024. Similar tourist tax proposals are being considered in the UK, including a potential visitor levy in Wales and a 5% tax in the Scottish Highlands. Edinburgh plans to introduce its own tax in 2026.