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Tourist tax is one of the biggest “surprises” on a hotel or long-stay invoice. In Amsterdam, the amount can add up quickly—and in 2026 there is an extra factor many guests overlook: the VAT rate on accommodation is higher than before.

This guide explains:

• the Amsterdam tourist tax rate in 2026,
• how the calculation works (with clear examples),
• and how to avoid unexpected totals when booking 30+ days.

1) What is tourist tax (and who sets it)?

Tourist tax is a municipal tax charged when you stay overnight in a city where you are not registered as a resident. The municipality sets the rate and the calculation method.

Important: tourist tax is different from VAT.

• Tourist tax = local, set by the municipality.
• VAT = national, shown on invoices and regulated by tax authorities.

2) Amsterdam tourist tax rate in 2026

In 2026, Amsterdam charges:

• 12.5% of the overnight price (excluding VAT).

Note: many providers display prices including VAT. Tourist tax is still calculated on the net overnight price before VAT.

3) How to calculate it (step by step)

Use this simple formula:

Tourist tax = 12.5% × (overnight price excluding VAT)

On top of that, VAT may apply to the overnight price. In 2026, the VAT rate on accommodation is 21%.

Worked example (per night)

Assume:

• Overnight price excl. VAT: €100

Then:

• VAT (21%): €21
• Tourist tax (12.5% of €100): €12.50
• Total: €100 + €21 + €12.50 = €133.50

Worked example (30 nights, indicative)

Assume:

• Overnight price excl. VAT: €100 per night
• 30 nights: €3,000 excl. VAT

Then:

• VAT (21%): €630
• Tourist tax (12.5% of €3,000): €375
• Total: €3,000 + €630 + €375 = €4,005

Tip: monthly stays may be priced as a monthly package rather than a nightly rate. Always ask how the overnight price is defined for tax calculation.

4) Why this matters for 30+ day stays

For 30+ days, tourist tax is no longer a small line item—it becomes a meaningful part of your monthly budget. That’s why transparency matters:

• Is the displayed price incl. or excl. VAT?
• Is it incl. or excl. tourist tax?
• Is tourist tax calculated on the net price (excl. VAT)? (in Amsterdam: yes)

A fixed monthly rate for your base stay (with utilities and Wi-Fi included) helps a lot—provided tourist tax is shown separately and clearly.

5) Six checks to avoid surprises

Before booking, ask (or confirm) the following:

1. “Is the price including VAT?”
2. “Is the price including tourist tax?”
3. “What amount do you use to calculate tourist tax?”
4. “Will I receive a clear invoice breakdown (HR-friendly)?”
5. “Does the same rate apply to all nights of my stay?”
6. “What is my total for 30 days, including all taxes?”

These questions prevent most misunderstandings.

6) Rotterdam comparison (why it can feel cheaper)

One reason some guests choose Rotterdam for a temporary stay is that local tax can be lower. In 2026, Rotterdam’s accommodation tax is:

• 6.5% of the overnight price.

Over 30+ days, that difference can be noticeable. If you are flexible and mainly looking for strong monthly value, Rotterdam can be a smart alternative.

Conclusion

In 2026, Amsterdam’s tourist tax is 12.5% of the overnight price excluding VAT. Combined with VAT, it can significantly increase your total—especially for 30+ days. The fix is simple: calculate all-in and request a transparent breakdown before you book.