Spain debates tourist taxes as Mogán fee is annulled and Vigo prepares new rates

Spain continues to face an ongoing debate regarding the implementation of tourist taxes in various destinations. Local governments and communities are weighing whether these fees are necessary to mitigate the impact of tourism or if they harm the competitiveness of their regions.

In Mogán, the High Court of Justice of the Canary Islands recently annulled a municipal tax of 0.15 euros per person per night. The court ruled that the tax was being used to collect funds under the guise of environmental protection, which distorted its intended purpose.

Meanwhile, the city of Vigo has approved a new tourist tax set to take effect in October. The tax will vary based on accommodation type: 2.00 euros for five-star hotels, 1.20 euros for cruise stays, and 0.80 euros for rural establishments, apartments, and tourist homes. The tax will be applied for a maximum of five nights per stay, with certain exemptions for health-related stays and federated athletes.