[takeaways] • 2026 is the year travel fees went mainstream — from Venice's day visitor access charge and Rome's Trevi Fountain fee to Japan's tripled departure tax and Edinburgh's overnight stay levy.
• Several charges are already in place: the Louvre increase (January), Hawaii's green fee (January), Trevi Fountain fee (February), Kyoto accommodation tax (March), and London Tube rises (March).
• Upcoming charges still to land this year: Edinburgh's 5% visitor levy (July 24), Japan's departure tax tripling (July), and Tenerife's Teide eco-fee (2026).
• The EU's ETIAS entry system has been delayed — UK travellers will not need to pay an ETIAS fee until at least April 2027.
• A SIMOVO eSIM keeps you connected for QR codes, pre-booked access tickets, maps, and booking changes — essential when travel logistics are more complex than ever. [/takeaways] [warning]The EU's ETIAS entry system has been delayed. UK travellers will not need to pay the expected ETIAS fee until at least April 2027. Official ETIAS information[/warning]
Quick overview: 2026 travel fees
| Fee / Change | Where | When | Typical extra cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air Passenger Duty increase | UK | From Apr 1, 2026 | Rates rise by band |
| Louvre ticket increase | France | From Jan 14, 2026 | €22 to €32 |
| Visitor levy | Norway (selected areas) | Summer 2026 | 3% (location dependent) |
| Teide eco-fee | Spain (Tenerife) | 2026 | Reported €10 to €25 |
| Departure tax tripling | Japan | From Jul 2026 | ¥1,000 to ¥3,000 |
| Accommodation tax increase | Japan (Kyoto) | From Mar 1, 2026 | Tiered rise, biggest on luxury stays |
| Trevi Fountain fee | Italy (Rome) | From Feb 1, 2026 | €2 |
| Visitor levy | UK (Edinburgh) | From Jul 24, 2026 | 5% on overnight stays |
| Road usage charge | Iceland | From 2026 | Per km model |
| National park surcharge | USA | From 2026 | $100 nonresident fee at designated parks |
| Entry fee | Thailand | From Feb 2026 | 300 baht |
| ESTA fee increase | USA | From Sep 30, 2025 | $21 to $40 |
| Tourist accommodation tax (planned) | Spain (Basque Country) | 2026 rollout | Reported up to €6 per night |
| Airport drop-off fees rising | UK airports | 2026 | Varies by airport |
| Cruise passenger tax (proposed) | France | Budget process for 2026 | Reported €15 per port call |
| LA hotel taxes and proposals | USA (LA area) | 2026 | City dependent |
| Venice access fee returns | Italy (Venice) | Apr to Jul 2026 (set days) | €5 early, €10 late |
| Green fee accommodation tax rise | USA (Hawaii) | From Jan 1, 2026 | +0.75 percentage points |
| Entry fee | Netherlands (Zaanse Schans) | From 2026 | Reported €17.50 |
| Tube fare rises | UK (London) | From Mar 2026 | Zone 1 off-peak £2.80 to £3.00 |
| Tourist taxes rising | Spain (Barcelona) | 2026 | Reported up to €15 per night |
The 20 charges explained — plus what to enjoy in each place
1. UK Air Passenger Duty rises again
APD rates change from April 1, 2026. The amount you pay depends on distance band and cabin class. Annoying — but if you're flying long haul, the bigger cost driver is usually the ticket itself. To soften it, travel midweek, avoid school holiday peaks, and set price alerts early.
Reference: UK Government APD rates from 1 April 2026
[tip title="Packing tip (UK departures)"]Keep a "flight day pouch" in your hand luggage: spare charging cable, plug adaptor, earplugs, painkillers, and a pen. It saves you digging around at security and on-board.[/tip]
2. France — Louvre ticket increase (Paris)
Paris is still Paris. The Louvre ticket increase affects non-European visitors, rising to €32. If you want maximum value, don't try to "do the Louvre". Pick a short list — Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, Winged Victory of Samothrace — then leave and enjoy the city.
Reference: Reuters on Louvre ticket price rise · SIMOVO France eSIM
[tip title="Packing tip (France)"]Pack one "smart casual" layer even in summer. Paris evenings can cool quickly, and a light jacket or overshirt makes dinners and river walks far more comfortable.[/tip]
3. Norway — visitor levy (selected areas)
Norway's "coolcation" appeal is real. The visitor levy supports areas under strain from tourism, rather than being a blanket national charge. Take a fjord ferry, hike to viewpoints, and if you're travelling in the darker months, build your trip around Northern Lights conditions rather than fixed expectations.
Reference: overview of new tourist taxes including Norway · SIMOVO Norway eSIM
[tip title="Packing tip (Norway)"]Bring a thin merino base layer even in summer. Weather changes fast by water and mountains, and layering beats carrying a bulky coat.[/tip]
4. Spain — Tenerife Teide eco-fee
Tenerife is more than beaches. Teide National Park is one of the most dramatic landscapes in Europe — volcanic plains, sharp ridgelines, and a summit that feels otherworldly. Reported plans include an eco-fee for hikers, with pricing depending on route and whether you go guided.
Reference: Time Out on Teide eco-fee · SIMOVO Spain eSIM
[tip title="Packing tip (Tenerife)"]Pack sunscreen and a light windbreaker. You can get strong sun at altitude and chilly wind near the summit on the same day.[/tip]
5. Japan — departure tax tripling
Japan's departure tax is set to rise to ¥3,000 from July 2026. Japan can feel like several countries in one — Tokyo's neon pace, Osaka's food culture, and rural towns where time slows down. If you're new to Japan, keep the itinerary realistic. Two cities and a few day trips can be better than trying to cross the whole country.
Reference: Japan departure tax reporting · SIMOVO Japan eSIM
[tip title="Packing tip (Japan)"]Bring a compact tote or foldable bag. You'll use it constantly for convenience store snacks, shopping, and carrying rubbish until you find a bin.[/tip]
6. Japan — Kyoto accommodation tax increase
Kyoto's accommodation tax increases from March 1, 2026, with the biggest rises on higher-priced stays. Kyoto is the gentle side of Japan: temple lanterns at dusk, bamboo forests, quiet gardens. Wake early — Kyoto is calmer before the crowds. If you can, stay slightly outside the busiest centre.
Reference: Kyoto accommodation tax summary · SIMOVO Japan eSIM
[tip title="Packing tip (Kyoto)"]Pack socks you're happy to be seen in. Many temples, ryokan, and traditional spaces involve removing shoes.[/tip]
7. Italy — Rome Trevi Fountain fee
From February 1, 2026, there's a €2 fee for close-up access to the Trevi Fountain during core hours, with exemptions for residents. Treat Rome as neighbourhoods — pick one or two per day, walk slowly, and stop often. The best moments are usually unplanned.
Reference: AP on Trevi Fountain €2 fee · SIMOVO Italy eSIM
[tip title="Packing tip (Italy)"]Bring a light scarf or cover-up. It helps for church visits, sun protection, and cooler evenings, and takes almost no space.[/tip]
8. UK — Edinburgh visitor levy
Edinburgh's visitor levy begins July 24, 2026 and is set at 5% on overnight stays. Climb Arthur's Seat for sunrise, then spend the day exploring the Old Town and New Town. If you're there in August, book early — the Fringe atmosphere is electric.
Reference: Edinburgh visitor levy plan · SIMOVO UK eSIM
[tip title="Packing tip (Edinburgh)"]Pack a small umbrella and a waterproof outer layer. Scottish weather changes quickly and you'll still want to keep walking.[/tip]
9. Iceland — per kilometre road usage charge
Iceland's move toward a kilometre-based road charge reflects the reality that maintaining roads in extreme conditions is expensive. Iceland is a road trip dream — do fewer miles per day than you think. You'll stop constantly for waterfalls, short hikes, and views that deserve more than a quick glance.
Reference: Iceland road tax explainer · SIMOVO Iceland eSIM
[tip title="Packing tip (Iceland)"]Waterproof trousers are worth it. Wind and sideways rain are common, and you'll enjoy waterfalls and hikes much more if you stay dry.[/tip]
10. USA — national park surcharge
The nonresident fee applies at designated parks and supports preservation and infrastructure. America's national parks are some of the planet's great outdoor cathedrals — pick one and commit. The Grand Canyon deserves more than a photo. Stay for the light change at sunset.
Reference: NPS nonresident fees · SIMOVO USA eSIM
[tip title="Packing tip (USA national parks)"]Bring a refillable water bottle and a headlamp. Even short trails can run late, and hydration is the easiest way to avoid a miserable day.[/tip]
11. Thailand — entry fee
The planned entry fee is 300 baht from February 2026, with some of the fee reported to support tourism infrastructure and insurance. Balance your trip: a few days in Bangkok for food and culture, then islands or the north for nature. Thailand is at its best when you slow down.
Reference: Thailand entry fee reporting · SIMOVO Thailand eSIM
[tip title="Packing tip (Thailand)"]Pack mosquito repellent and lightweight long sleeves. Even if you're a beach person, you'll be glad of protection at dusk and on boat trips.[/tip]
12. USA — ESTA fee increase
The ESTA fee rose to $40 from September 30, 2025. Always use official sources when renewing or applying, and allow time before travel. The USA is still one of the easiest "big" trips to plan because the tourist infrastructure is so developed.
Reference: US Embassy guidance on ESTA · SIMOVO USA eSIM
[tip title="Packing tip (USA cities)"]Pack comfortable walking shoes you can wear all day. In most US cities you will either walk a lot or stand a lot — both punish "nice but painful" footwear.[/tip]
13. Spain — Basque Country tourist tax (planned)
A reported tourist accommodation tax is expected to roll out in the Basque Country, with figures reported up to €6 per night. San Sebastián is famous for pintxos culture, and Bilbao pairs industrial heritage with modern design. Plan an evening that is basically just pintxos — wander, eat one thing per bar, drink something small, repeat.
Reference: Basque Country tourist tax reporting · SIMOVO Spain eSIM
[tip title="Packing tip (Basque Country)"]Bring a small rain shell. Northern Spain can turn wet quickly, and you'll still want to stroll between bars and beaches.[/tip]
14. UK airports — drop-off fees rising
Drop-off fees are the modern travel annoyance nobody asked for. Check your airport's rules before you go — some airports have free drop-off alternatives a little further away, or short-stay car parks that work out better.
Reference: Gatwick drop-off charges · Reference: ITV list of UK airport drop-off fees
[tip title="Packing tip (airport drop-off)"]Pack so you can be out of the car in under 60 seconds: passport and phone in pocket, small bag ready, liquids already separated. Drop-off time limits feel much easier.[/tip]
15. UK — London City Airport drop-off
If you're using London City, check drop-off rules in advance. It's a convenient airport for short breaks and business trips, especially if you value getting from landing to the centre quickly.
Reference: London City Airport drop-off · SIMOVO UK eSIM
[tip title="Packing tip (short trips)"]If you're flying for 2 to 4 days, skip checked baggage. Pack one versatile outfit you can re-wear and you'll save time and hassle at both ends.[/tip]
16. France — cruise passenger tax (proposed)
Cruise travel puts huge pressure on ports that can go from calm to crowded in minutes. The proposed cruise levy is part of wider European efforts to manage visitor surges. If you're cruising, plan smarter shore time: pick one neighbourhood, one museum, one long lunch.
Reference: Euronews on French cruise tax proposal · SIMOVO France eSIM
[tip title="Packing tip (cruise days)"]Bring a small day bag that folds flat. You'll want water, sunscreen, and a layer, but you do not want to carry a bulky backpack all day.[/tip]
17. USA — Los Angeles hotel taxes and proposals
Accommodation taxes in the LA area vary by city, and there have been proposals to explore additional tax measures. Always check the final tax line at checkout — in places like LA, even a small percentage adds up.
Reference: ABC7 on LA tax measures · SIMOVO USA eSIM
[tip title="Packing tip (Los Angeles)"]Pack a light hoodie even in summer. Coastal evenings can cool quickly, especially if you're out late in Santa Monica or Venice Beach.[/tip]
18. Italy — Venice access fee returns
The access fee targets day visitors on select dates, with cheaper pricing when booked in advance and higher pricing closer to the date. Overnight visitors may still need to register. See Venice early or late — the quiet hours are when it feels like a dream.
Reference: Official Venice Access Fee page · SIMOVO Italy eSIM
[tip title="Packing tip (Venice)"]Bring comfortable shoes with grip. Venice involves lots of walking on smooth stones and bridges, and wet weather can make surfaces slippery.[/tip]
19. USA — Hawaii "green fee" accommodation tax increase
The accommodation tax increase supports climate resilience and conservation. Hawaii's landscapes are spectacular — volcanic craters, rainforest trails, coral reefs. Don't just do beaches. Do a sunrise hike. Visit a farmers' market. Hawaii is at its best when you connect with the land.
Reference: AP on Hawaii accommodation tax increase · SIMOVO USA eSIM
[tip title="Packing tip (Hawaii)"]Pack reef-safe sunscreen and a rash vest if you plan to snorkel. You'll stay protected, and it's kinder to the ocean.[/tip]
20. Netherlands — Zaanse Schans entry fee
Reporting suggests an entry fee of €17.50 for Zaanse Schans — classic postcard Holland: windmills, wooden houses, canals reflecting the sky. Go early, then spend the rest of the day in a nearby town. The Netherlands rewards wandering.
Reference: IamExpat on Zaanse Schans fee · SIMOVO Netherlands eSIM
[tip title="Packing tip (Netherlands)"]Pack a compact rain jacket. Dutch weather can switch quickly, and you'll still want to explore on foot or by bike.[/tip]
Bonus: two more costs travellers are noticing in 2026
London Tube fare rises
A small increase can add up over multiple journeys in Zone 1. If you want to save money, walk more — London is one of the best cities in the world for accidental discovery on foot.
Reference: London.gov.uk TfL fares package · SIMOVO UK eSIM
[tip title="Packing tip (London)"]Bring a power bank. Navigation, tickets, and messaging can drain your battery quickly on a full day out.[/tip]
Barcelona tourist taxes rising
Barcelona is a city that seduces you: Gaudí architecture, beach energy, late dinners, and a buzz that runs deep into the evening. Tourism taxes are a response to pressure on housing and city services. Stay longer, explore beyond the obvious, and keep the noise down in residential areas.
Reference: Reuters on Catalonia tourist tax · SIMOVO Spain eSIM
[tip title="Packing tip (Barcelona)"]Pack a crossbody bag with a secure zip. Like any major city, pickpocketing can happen in crowded tourist areas.[/tip]
How to avoid surprise travel fees in 2026
[tip title="Check official sites before booking — and again just before you travel"]Fee information changes. The Venice access fee schedule, national park entry fees, and accommodation tax rates can all be updated. Always verify against the official source of each destination rather than relying on third-party travel sites. Links to official sources are included in the sections above.[/tip] [tip title="Pre-book access fees where early pricing applies"]Venice's access fee is cheaper when booked in advance. Tenerife's Teide fee may also reward early booking depending on the final scheme. Pre-booking also gives you a confirmed QR code or ticket ready on your phone — requiring reliable mobile data when you arrive.[/tip] [tip title="Compare checkout totals — not just nightly rates"]Hotel and accommodation platforms show headline rates that often exclude local tourism taxes, which can be charged at checkout rather than online. Always review the full price breakdown before confirming, particularly in high-tax destinations like Barcelona, Kyoto, Hawaii, and LA.[/tip] [esim flag="🌍" label="SIMOVO eSIM" data="Sort your data before you fly" price="from £3" href="https://simovo.com" benefits="Instant QR setup · Connected on landing · No roaming charges"]Land connected — QR codes, maps, and bookings sorted before you leave[/esim]
Sources and further reading
- ETIAS official information
- UK Government: APD rates from 1 April 2026
- Reuters: Louvre ticket price increase
- Overview: new tourist taxes including Norway
- Time Out: Teide eco-fee
- Travel Voice: Japan departure tax
- Kyoto accommodation tax summary
- AP: Trevi Fountain fee
- Edinburgh visitor levy plan
- Iceland road tax explainer
- NPS: Nonresident fees
- Thailand entry fee reporting
- US Embassy: ESTA guidance
- Basque Country tourist tax reporting
- Gatwick: drop-off charges
- ITV: UK airport drop-off fees list
- London City Airport: drop-off
- Euronews: France cruise tax proposal
- Seatrade: France cruise proposal
- ABC7: LA tax measures explored
- Venice: access fee official page
- AP: Hawaii accommodation tax increase
- Hawaii Governor: green fee release
- IamExpat: Zaanse Schans fee
- Time Out: Zaanse Schans fee
- London.gov.uk: TfL 2026 fares package
- Reuters: Catalonia tourist tax reporting
[faq] [q]Do UK travellers need to pay the ETIAS fee in 2026?[/q] [a]No — the EU's ETIAS entry system has been delayed and UK travellers will not need to pay the ETIAS fee until at least April 2027. Check the official ETIAS website at travel-europe.europa.eu for the latest update before any European travel.[/a] [q]What is the Venice access fee and who has to pay it?[/q] [a]Venice's access fee applies to day visitors on specific high-demand dates between April and July 2026. The fee is €5 when booked in advance and €10 when paid on the day. Overnight visitors and residents are exempt. Check the official Venice access fee page at cda.veneziaunica.it for the exact dates it applies.[/a] [q]How much has Japan's departure tax increased?[/q] [a]Japan's departure tax is set to triple from ¥1,000 to ¥3,000 from July 2026. This applies to all international departures from Japan regardless of nationality or cabin class. The change is part of Japan's tourism management strategy in response to record visitor numbers.[/a] [q]What is Edinburgh's visitor levy and when does it start?[/q] [a]Edinburgh's visitor levy is set at 5% on overnight accommodation stays and begins July 24, 2026. It applies to all paid overnight stays in Edinburgh. The levy is charged by accommodation providers on top of the room rate at the time of payment.[/a] [q]How can I stay connected while managing all these new travel requirements?[/q] [a]A SIMOVO eSIM for your destination country keeps you connected for QR codes, pre-booked access tickets, real-time fee updates, navigation, and booking confirmations — all the things that travel logistics now depend on. Install before you fly and activate on landing. Plans are available for most destinations covered in this guide.[/a] [/faq]
