Bucharest. Photo: Shutterstock Bucharest joins the ranks of European capitals imposing a tourist tax: starting tomorrow, a new city tourist tax will take effect in Romania's capital, applicable to every tourist staying in the city.
According to the decision by the Bucharest City Council (CGMB), a special tax for promoting tourism in the city for the year 2026 will be charged, amounting to 10 Romanian Lei (approximately 2 Euros) per night per guest. This tax will be collected in addition to the accommodation price at hotels, vacation apartments, hostels, and all official tourist lodging facilities in the city.
Local authorities explain that the tax aims to strengthen and promote tourism in Bucharest, fund international campaigns, improve tourist infrastructures, cultural events, signage, digitization, and enhance the visitor experience in the city.
Who Pays and How?
The tax applies to every tourist staying in the city, regardless of nationality.
The collection is carried out through accommodation providers as part of the lodging bill.
The amount is fixed per night and does not depend on the hotel's level or type of accommodation.
Broad European Trend
Bucharest joins cities like Paris, Rome, Barcelona, Amsterdam, and London, which already impose similar tourist taxes. In most European cities, these taxes range from 1 to 7 Euros per night, placing Bucharest in the low to medium range.
The Impact on Tourists from Israel
The new tax is not expected to significantly affect holiday costs but is an addition to consider, especially for long stays or family trips. However, in Romania, they emphasize that the funds will be directly used to improve the tourist experience, potentially benefiting visitors in the medium and long term.
Bottom Line
Bucharest continues to establish itself as a lively, cultural, and accessible urban destination and asks tourists to participate, with a symbolic amount, in the development of city tourism. The new tourist tax takes effect tomorrow and is expected to apply to anyone planning to stay in the city.