The new tourist tax in Vigo does not yet have a specific start date. On July 23, 2025, Mayor Abel Caballero announced that the City Council has begun drafting a municipal ordinance to regulate this fee.

This process includes a public consultation period, involving the tourism sector and local citizens, so the approval and actual implementation is expected to take several months, with no clear date set yet.

the tax is not yet in effect. It is currently in the planning stage and will be applied in the future once the consultation and legislative process is completed.

The new tourist tax is a measure that has sparked debate among residents, visitors, and the hospitality sector. This tax consists of a small daily fee that tourists staying in regulated accommodations—such as hotels, guesthouses, or tourist apartments—must pay, with the aim of allocating these funds to the improvement of infrastructure, public services, and the conservation of the urban environment.

The decision to implement this tax is justified as a way to offset the wear and tear that tourism can cause in public spaces. The streets of the Casco Vello, the trails of Monte O Castro, or the beaches of Samil and O Vao are heavily visited areas that require constant maintenance, and the city council believes that those who enjoy them temporarily can contribute to their preservation.

For visitors, the tax does not represent a significant increase in travel costs, but it does introduce a shared responsibility. Rather than being seen as a simple surcharge, it is presented as a way to contribute to collective well-being and to strike a balance between tourism and local quality of life. In many cases, the amount is adjusted according to the category of the accommodation and the length of the stay, aiming for a progressive and fair model.

Locally, the measure has stirred mixed reactions. Some business owners and tourism professionals fear it may deter visitors, while others see it as an opportunity to strengthen Vigo’s identity as a sustainable and environmentally conscious destination. The revenue collected is not allocated to general purposes but to specific projects such as cleaning natural areas, beautifying the historic center, improving public transport during peak seasons, or promoting cultural activities.

The tax is also interpreted as a way to align Vigo with other cities that have already adopted similar measures, demonstrating that tourism growth can be managed in a balanced way. The city remains open to the world, but with a clear commitment to sustainability, respect, and care for its surroundings.

In essence, the new tourist tax in Vigo is not just a financial issue but also a symbolic one a small gesture that reflects a larger intention. Those who visit Vigo not only take away memories of its landscapes, cuisine, or people, but also leave a positive mark that contributes to the city’s future.