Edinburgh’s new tourist levy sparks debate across UK and Spain’s resorts

Edinburgh has become the first UK city to introduce a city‑wide tourist levy, a 5% charge on the first five nights of accommodation that began a week ago. The tax applies to hotels, B&Bs, self‑catering apartments, hostels, campsites and other short‑stay options. Local officials hope the revenue will fund tourism improvements and infrastructure.

Other UK cities are planning similar measures: Glasgow is set to launch a 5% levy in January 2027, Aberdeen a 7% levy in April 2027, and Cardiff is expected to introduce a visitor levy in Wales from April 2027 following new Welsh legislation that gives councils the power to levy charges.

In Spain’s Balearic Islands, a tourist tax introduced a decade ago in Calvià – the district that includes the resort of Magaluf – is credited by tourism director Jaime Mora Bosch with supporting investment and modernising the area. He says the levy has helped shift Magaluf away from its reputation as a rowdy British party destination, leading to upgraded facilities and a more diverse visitor base.