Nazaré Implements New Tourist Tax for Overnight Visitors

As of September 1, 2026, the municipality of Nazaré has officially implemented a new tourist tax on all overnight stays. This regulation, which was formally published in the Diário da República, is part of a wider effort by the local government to manage the impacts of increasing tourism in the popular coastal town. Known globally for its massive waves and surfing culture, Nazaré has seen a surge in visitor numbers, prompting the council to seek additional funding for municipal services and infrastructure maintenance.

The tax applies to all visitors staying in commercial accommodation establishments. While the regulation came into force at the start of September, the local government confirmed that bookings made prior to the implementation date for stays later in the year are exempt from the charge. This grace period was intended to minimize disruption for travellers who had already finalized their travel budgets and itineraries.

All tourists and visitors staying overnight in hotels, guesthouses, or short-term rental properties within the municipality of Nazaré are affected by this new tax. The requirement applies to both domestic and international travellers.

Makutet observes that Nazaré’s decision reflects a growing trend among smaller, high-profile European destinations to formalize tourism revenue streams. We anticipate that other coastal towns in Portugal facing similar seasonal pressures will likely adopt comparable tax structures by 2027 to offset the costs of managing peak-season crowds and environmental preservation.