Picture the charming city of Viana do Castelo in northern Portugal. This hidden gem, known for its majestic Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and easy accessibility from Porto, has been basking in the spotlight of increased tourism. However, with great popularity comes great responsibility, as local authorities are now combating the challenges of overcrowding with a bold move – the introduction of a “tourist tax.”
Visitors over the age of 16 looking to explore this enchanting city will now have to cough up between €1 to €7.50 per stay, with resorts adding an extra €1 to €1.50 per person per night depending on the season. This decision was spurred by the staggering influx of tourists, which has posed cleanliness and maintenance challenges for the city. To address this, the mayor, Luís Nobre, has announced that the revenue from this tax will be utilized to alleviate the impact of the burgeoning number of visitors.
But fear not, as there are exceptions to this new levy. Guests invited by the council, visitors for health reasons, individuals with disabilities, and those temporarily residing in Portugal due to conflict are exempt. Additionally, tourists with bookings made before the tax was implemented will also catch a break.
Viana do Castelo isn’t the only region in Portugal to implement these measures – Oeiras near Lisbon has also joined the bandwagon. This comes on the heels of growing discontent among local residents throughout Europe, who have been vocal about the challenges posed by mass tourism and have demanded action to address the issue.
The introduction of a tourist tax in Viana do Castelo highlights the delicate balance between welcoming visitors and preserving the allure of the city. As more “off-the-beaten-path” destinations like Viana do Castelo rise in popularity, the implementation of such levies may become a common strategy to manage the impact of mass tourism on local communities. So, next time you plan a trip, be mindful of the hidden costs of your wanderlust.
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