A new visitor tax has gone into effect in Edinburgh, Scotland.
First announced early last year, the new levy applies to overnight stays in the Scottish capital taking place from July 24, 2026, and is expected to raise as much as £50 million (roughly $66.5 million USD) a year.
"We know that the city’s popularity comes at a cost through the pressure it puts on our services and on the people who live and work here all year round. This small new contribution from overnight visitors will help improve the services and public spaces we all depend on, while better managing the effects of tourism and major events," Council Leader Jane Meagher said in a statement.
How Much Is the New Tax?
According to city officials, a 5% fee will now apply to the cost of all paid overnight accommodation in Edinburgh, capped at five nights in a row. That means a nightly room rate of $100 will amount to $105, with a five-night stay at the same nightly rate of $100 coming in at $525.
The tax applies to all paid overnight stays so that includes, hotels, hostels and even Airbnbs.
The levy is charged at the same rate every day of the year so tourists won't be forced to pay a higher tax during peak visitor periods.
Where Are the Funds Going?
"Worth over £90 million over the next three years, the initial programs fall under three well-defined themes: City Operations and Infrastructure; Culture, Heritage and Events; and Destination and Visitor Management," according to the city. "The Council will receive the first levy receipts in October and November of this year."
"The levy has also opened the door to exciting new projects right across the city—helping to make Edinburgh a cleaner, greener and more welcoming place," added Meagher. "We’ll soon be able to invest more into our many parks and greenspaces, and bring much-loved cultural venues such as the Royal High School and Leith Theatre back into use for the first time in decades—and much more."
"This is a big opportunity for us all to work together and enhance Edinburgh’s position as one of the most popular visitor destinations in the world," concluded Meagher.
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