Bruges introduces new tourist tax for holiday rentals

The City of Bruges is implementing a revised tax framework for licensed holiday rentals that will significantly increase the cost of overnight stays in the coming years. While the city positions this measure as a fiscal necessity, it creates growing pressure on both guests and accommodation providers and raises questions about the broader tourism strategy for Bruges.

• Starting January 1, 2026, a per-night tourist tax of €3.75 excluding VAT will apply to each adult guest (+18) staying in a licensed holiday rental. In real terms, guests are already paying €4.00 including VAT per adult per night as of January 1, 2026.
• Due to the planned VAT increase on accommodation in Belgium, this amount rises to €4.20 including VAT from March 1, 2026.
• The increase does not stop there: by January 1, 2028, the tourist tax will climb further to €5.60 per adult per night.

This new charge is being introduced on top of an existing obligation. Holiday rental operators have long been required to pay an annual fixed (forfaitary) tourist tax. That system will remain in place and will also be subject to an increase, meaning operators will face a higher and cumulative tax burden.

We strongly regret this policy direction. Bruges should be encouraging overnight tourism—visitors who stay multiple nights, support local businesses, and contribute to a more balanced and sustainable visitor economy. Instead, rising taxes make overnight stays progressively more expensive, while the challenge of mass day tourism remains largely unresolved.

As costs increase, booking directly will become more important than ever. Direct reservations help guests avoid unnecessary mark-ups and provide clear, transparent pricing. Booking directly is consistently the most affordable option. Even when discounts or loyalty programs such as Genius are applied by third-party platforms, the final price is always higher than a direct booking for the same accommodation.

There is, however, a short-term opportunity for guests planning a stay in 2026. Reservations that are fully paid before March 1, 2026, still benefit from the reduced 6% VAT rate. Early payment therefore results in a lower total price and offers a meaningful saving.