Edinburgh tourist tax
5% of the accommodation price, on the first 5 nights of a stay.
In force since 24 July 2026Last checked 13 October 2026
Edinburgh · estimate
- Rate
- –
- Per night
- –
- Nights charged
- –
- Exempt children
- –
Total tax–
Who pays
- Hotels, guest houses, B&Bs and hostels
- Self-catering, aparthotels and short-term lets
- Caravan and camp sites
- Student rooms let to visitors
Who doesn't pay
- Nights 6 and over in the same stay
- Stays booked and paid (in full or in part) before 1 October 2025
- Extras such as parking, meals and drinks
Good to know
- The levy is worked out on the price before VAT.
- UK and Scottish residents pay it too.
- Some visitors, such as people on certain disability benefits, can claim it back. Check the council's guidance for the full list.
Common questions
How much is the tourist tax in Edinburgh?
5% of the accommodation price, on the first 5 nights of a stay.
Who doesn't have to pay the tourist tax in Edinburgh?
Nights 6 and over in the same stay. Stays booked and paid (in full or in part) before 1 October 2025. Extras such as parking, meals and drinks.
Is there a limit on how many nights you pay for in Edinburgh?
Yes. The tax is only charged on the first 5 nights of a stay.
Sources
We check every rate against these sources and update the page when they change.
Elsewhere in Scotland
- Aberdeen 7% of the accommodation price from April 2027, the highest rate in Scotland
- Glasgow 5% of the accommodation price from 25 January 2027, with no limit on nights
- Stirling 3% of the accommodation price on the first 7 nights, from June 2027
- West Dunbartonshire 5% of the accommodation price for stays from 1 July 2027