Norway Approves Tourist Tax to Fund Sustainable Travel and Improve Local Infrastructure

Authorities in Norway have approved a new tourist tax that will apply to visitors travelling to the country’s most popular destinations. The move is part of a broader effort to promote sustainable tourism and manage the growing number of tourists visiting Norway each year.

Local Authorities to Set Seasonal Rates

Under the new legislation, local municipalities will have the flexibility to adjust the tourist tax rate based on the season and local needs. This means higher rates could be applied during peak tourist periods, helping to manage visitor flows while providing additional funding during times of high demand.

Revenues to Support Tourism Infrastructure Upgrades

Norway welcomed a record 38.6 million tourist accommodation bookings in 2024. The revenues generated by the new tourist tax will be channelled directly into improving tourism infrastructure, ensuring that destinations can better accommodate rising visitor numbers.

Municipalities seeking to access the funds must first demonstrate that existing infrastructure is inadequate. Once approved, they can invest in upgrades such as public facilities, waste management, and transportation networks.

Norway’s Minister of Trade and Industry, Cecelie Myrseth, called the decision a “historic agreement” and noted that Norway is now joining a growing list of European nations that have introduced similar taxes to support sustainable tourism.

Norway Positioned for Tourism Growth in 2025

Looking ahead to 2025, Norway is expected to remain a top choice for travellers, particularly those seeking cooler climates. As global temperatures rise, destinations with milder weather are seeing increased demand.

In 2024, more than 36 million people visited Norway, with overnight stays rising by 4.2 per cent, according to Euronews. One of the most popular regions remains the Lofoten Islands, famous for their scenic hiking trails and dramatic landscapes.

However, the tourism boom has sparked mixed reactions among locals. A recent study by Norwegian Tourism Partners revealed that 77 per cent of residents in Tromsø, located above the Arctic Circle, felt that tourist numbers were too high during peak season.

Broader European Trend: Tourist Taxes on the Rise

Norway’s new tourist tax follows similar moves across Europe. Earlier this year, Catalonia in Spain raised its tourist tax, with fees reaching up to €15 per night depending on the type of accommodation.

Rates now vary in Catalonia, with tourists staying in five-star hotels paying €7.50 per night, while four-star hotels and rental apartments charge between €5.70 and €6.25 per night.

As more European countries adopt tourist taxes, the trend reflects a shift toward more sustainable travel practices that aim to balance economic benefits with environmental protection and local community well-being.