Bucharest’s General Council has approved the introduction of a fixed tourist tax, applicable from January 1, 2026, a decision that generated an immediate negative reaction from the hotel industry. The local authorities estimate that they will collect around EUR 2.95 million (RON 15 million) annually from the tax, funds earmarked exclusively for promoting the capital as a tourist destination, although a concrete plan for how the money will be used has not yet been presented.
From 2026 onwards, every tourist staying in a tourist accommodation in Bucharest will pay a fixed tax of 10 RON (about €1.96) per night, regardless of the price or category of the accommodation. Collection is the responsibility of accommodation providers, including hotels, hostels, online booking platforms such as Airbnb and Booking.com, and travel agencies. The legislation foresees fines for non-compliance of up to 1,500 RON (about €295) for individuals and 4,000 RON (about €786) for companies. Deputy mayor Stelian Bujduveanu says the measure will bring “added value” to the city through promotional campaigns and events.
The main controversy is related to the adoption procedure, as the draft resolution was approved on December 23, 2025, only four days after its publication. The Federation of the Romanian Hotel Industry (FIHR) criticizes the process as “non-transparent” and rushed, without proper consultation with operators in the sector. Industry representatives warn that the measure could have a negative impact on tourism, which has seen a recent surge, partly due to the popularity of some attractions on social networks. FIHR emphasizes that “tourism needs partnership, not administrative improvisation” and expresses concern that Bucharest risks becoming a fiscally costly but under-promoted destination.
Unlike Bucharest, most European cities apply variable taxes. In Paris, the tax varies between €0.88 and €4.40 depending on the category of accommodation, while in Rome it ranges between €3 and €7. In Prague, the tax is around €1 per night. Bucharest’s flat-rate model, while having a low nominal value, could discourage tourists planning longer stays or those with limited budgets.