Portugal tourist tax: What you need to know in 2025

Getting ready for a holiday in Portugal? Another thing you should add to your travel budget is the Portugal tourist tax.

In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the Portugal tourist tax, including how it works, how much it costs and who needs to pay it.

We’ll also explain how Wise can help you while travelling, whether with paying the tax or making other purchases abroad. With a Wise card, you can spend in 150+ countries in 40+ currencies.

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What is the Portugal tourist tax?

The Portugal tourist tax is charged to visitors staying in paid accommodations or short-term rentals and it’s mainly used to fund tourism-related infrastructure. Those visiting friends or family in Portugal won’t need to pay the tax.¹

The Taxa Municipal Turística is applied in different parts of Portugal, but cities and regions have the right to decide on the amount. However, the legislative procedure for this is strict, so they won’t change unexpectedly.¹

There’s also a cruise tax in Lisbon, charged to passengers disembarking in the city.²

How much is the tourist tax?

The tourist tax in Portugal varies based on the region you’re visiting. Some cities also have higher seasonal rates and different age limits for those paying the tax.¹

For example, you’ll pay €4 per night if you’re staying in Lisbon, regardless of the type of accommodation. There’s a seven-night cap, so the most you’ll pay per person is €28. Travellers exempt from paying the tax are children under 13, those coming for medical treatment and students in the first 60 days of the academic year.¹

Lisbon also charges a €2 tax for all tourists disembarking in the city.²

The tax in Porto is €3 per night, also capped at seven consecutive nights. Exemptions apply to certain travellers, including children under 12, individuals receiving medical treatment in Porto and tourists with disabilities of at least 60%. Pilgrims travelling to Santiago de Compostela or Fátima are also exempt, but only for their first night in a designated pilgrim hostel.¹

Faro applies different tourist tax rates depending on the season. From November to March, the tax is €1 per night. From the beginning of April until the end of October, it’s €2 per night. The tax is capped at seven nights, so the maximum charge is €14. Travellers receiving medical treatment, tourists with a certain degree of disability and children under 16 are exempt.¹

Coimbra has one of the lowest tourist taxes in the country at €1 per night throughout the year. The tax is capped at three nights, so you won’t pay more than €3 per person during your stay in this city.¹

How do you pay the tourist tax?

How you pay the Portugal tourist tax depends on the type of accommodation and how you booked your stay. For example, it’s common for Airbnbs and similar platforms to include the tax during the online booking process. If you’re staying in a hotel, you’ll likely pay in person, either at check-in or check-out.¹

Since you'll be paying these fees in a different currency, using Wise could be a great solution. Wise converts your pounds at the mid-market rate, with a small conversion fee*, or no fee if you already have euros in your Wise account. You can also use your Wise card to withdraw cash from ATMs in Portugal.

Tips for travelling to Portugal

Before you travel to Portugal, here are some travel tips you might find useful:

• Slow it down: Do as the locals do and take your time, especially during meals. Eating is a social experience and even a cup of coffee is usually enjoyed sitting down, without rushing.
• Wear comfortable shoes: Many cities in Portugal have steep streets and cobblestone pavements, so comfortable footwear is a must.
• Beware of pickpockets: Although Portugal is considered very safe, petty theft can happen in touristy areas. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded spots like Bairro Alto or tram 28 in Lisbon.
• Learn some Portuguese: Although you won’t be able to master the language overnight, picking up a few phrases like bom dia, boa tarde or boa noite can go a long way.

Travelling to Portugal? Choose the Wise card

The Portugal tourist tax amount varies across the country, with different cities setting their own rates. Generally, the tax ranges from €1 to €4 per night, depending on the city and sometimes the season. Additionally, visitors arriving in Lisbon by cruise ship pay a tax of €2 per person.

And if you’re looking for a good option for spending in Portugal, choose the Wise card. For a one-time cost of just £7, you can spend and withdraw in Portugal and 150+ more countries. You can also pay for car rentals, accommodation or the like while still in the UK.

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FAQs - Tourist tax in Portugal

Let’s go through some commonly asked questions about the Portugal tourist tax:

Do all cities in Portugal charge a tourist tax?

No, only certain locations in Portugal have a tourist tax, so make sure you ask your accommodation provider whether there is one where you’re staying.³

Is the Portugal tourist tax charged in winter?

Yes, but the amount can depend on the destination. Some cities charge the same rate year-round, while others increase the tax during the high season.¹

Do children need to pay the Portugal tourist tax?

The age limit for the Portugal tourist tax varies based on location. For example, the age limit in Porto is 12, while children under 16 are exempt from the tax in Faro.¹

Sources used:

Sources last checked on date: 23-Jul-2025