Tourist and Travel Taxes in Europe: What Australians Need to Know
Planning a trip to Europe? Beyond flights and hotels, there’s one hidden cost many Australians overlook — tourist taxes and travel fees that vary by country and can impact your overall budget.
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Tourist taxes are imposed to help cities maintain infrastructure, manage tourism volumes, and preserve cultural sites.
These charges are particularly common in high-traffic destinations like Venice, Barcelona, and Amsterdam, where the influx of visitors puts pressure on local resources.
Meanwhile, other countries like Hungary, Portugal, or Croatia also apply smaller tourist fees — but at lower rates that are friendlier to budget-conscious travellers.
Common Tourist and Travel Fees in Europe
While each country sets its own rules, here are the most typical taxes and fees Australians should be aware of:
- Hotel taxes: Often charged per person, per night — added at check-in or check-out.
- City access fees: For instance, Venice now requires a day-tripper fee.
- Transport charges: Some countries (e.g. Austria, Switzerland) require vignettes (prepaid road passes) for driving on highways.
- Airport or departure taxes: Sometimes included in airline tickets, sometimes not.
These charges may seem small individually, but they can add up over a two-week trip across multiple countries.
How Do These Taxes Affect Your Travel Budget?
Tourist taxes are typically unavoidable — and whether you're staying in a luxury hotel or a modest hostel, you’re likely to encounter them.
A family of four staying five nights in Paris might pay around €50–70 extra, just in hotel taxes. Road-tripping across Eastern Europe? You may need cash for tolls and vignettes at short notice.
The key is to be aware in advance and factor these costs into your daily travel budget. Having local currency ready can save stress — especially when you arrive late or find that taxes need to be paid in cash only.
What Currency Do You Need — and Where to Get It?
Most tourist taxes in Europe are paid in euros (EUR). However, some countries — like Switzerland (CHF), Hungary (HUF), or Czech Republic (CZK) — use their own local currency. It’s important to check in advance which currency applies at your destination.
If you’re visiting several countries, you might need a mix of euros and local currencies.
Prepare for your trip by reserving your travel money online in advance! Enjoy significant savings with excellent rates and 0% commission on a wide range of currencies, including exotic ones.
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Tourist Tax Comparison: Cheapest vs. Most Expensive Cities
Here’s a quick breakdown of how cities compare on tourist tax charges:
| City | Typical Tourist Tax (AUD per night) | Currency |
| Venice | $7–10 per person | EUR |
| Paris | $4–6 per person | EUR |
| Budapest | $2–3 per person | HUF |
| Lisbon | $3 per person | EUR |
| Tirana | No formal tax | ALL |
| Prague | $3 per person | CZK |
Note: Charges vary by accommodation type and season. Always confirm with your booking provider.
Final Tips for Aussies to Avoid Surprises
Tourist taxes aren’t something to panic about — but being prepared helps you avoid awkward moments and extra costs.
Here’s what you can do:
- Check your booking details to see if taxes are included or payable on arrival.
- Carry small denominations of local currency for hotel check-in or road tolls.
- Plan your overall budget with these extra fees in mind.
- Reserve your foreign currency online to secure better rates and peace of mind.
If you're still deciding where to go, understanding which destinations offer the best value can help you plan more effectively. Check out our guide on the most affordable country in Europe to discover where your Aussie dollars go further without compromising on the experience.
With Prosegur Change, order your travel cash online with 0% commission and pick it up conveniently at the airport. Trusted by Australians for more than 30 years, we make managing your travel money simple and stress-free.
Still unsure how tourist taxes work? These common questions from Aussie travellers can help.
FAQs About Tourist Taxes in Europe
Not all, but most popular destinations like France, Italy, Spain and Austria do. The rate and structure vary by country and even by city.
Often, yes — but some small hotels or B&Bs may ask for cash only. It's wise to have some euros or local currency ready.
Sometimes yes, but often they’re listed as an “additional local fee” to be paid at the hotel. Always double-check the fine print.
It depends on the country. In some places, children under 12 or 18 are exempt. Others charge full rates.
Stay Smart, Budget Better — and Travel Prepared
Tourist taxes might be small, but they’re part of the real cost of travelling in Europe. Knowing what to expect — and having the right currency in hand — will help you avoid last-minute surprises.
Before you fly, reserve your foreign currency online with Prosegur Change. Enjoy 0% commission, competitive exchange rates, and convenient airport pick-up. Trusted by Australians for over 30 years.
