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This is how tourist tax in Switzerland works Copy link to clipboard

If you spend the night in Switzerland, you’ll pay tourist tax. Learn what it costs, what it’s for and how to pay.

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This post was published on 11 January 2014 and last updated by Annika on 24 August 2024.
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What is tourist tax?

Anyone staying a night in Switzerland is required to pay a tax. The amount varies from about CHF 2 to 7 per person per night.

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What’s tourist tax used for?

The tourist tax is used to pay for tourist infrastructure such as transportation, information services, cultural performances, et cetera. Swiss citizens staying in a town where they don’t have permanent residence pay the tax too.

Why do the tax amounts vary?

The tourist tax needs to be paid per person and night, and the amount is different per town. Only a few towns in Switzerland don’t charge tourist tax. The amount can be different per type of accommodation as well: campsites and dormitories are cheaper than hotels and holiday homes. The amount is determined by the local authorities, not by the accommodation owner.

🇨🇭 The official SBB tourist webshop
✓ Discounts for passholders ✓ Instant mobile e-Ticket ✓ Free cancellation option
🎁 Promotion: Buy your pass and get a free CHF 100 itinerary review! See details ►
Swiss Travel Pass Unlimited travel

Swiss Travel Pass

Unlimited train, bus, & boat travel across Switzerland.

From CHF 254 View tickets & prices ➤
Mountain excursions With discounts

Mountain excursions

Official e-Tickets with pass holder discounts. Skip the ticket counter.

From CHF 22 for pass holders View tickets & prices ➤
Regional passes Unlimited travel

Regional passes

Unlimited travel in the Berner Oberland, Jungfrau Region or Lucerne Region.

From CHF 210 View tickets & prices ➤

How to pay tourist tax

Quotes for accommodation usually do not include the tourist tax; it is specified as a separate amount.

The tax can be included in the final bill, which is common for hotels. The tax can also be paid for separately, which is common for holiday homes. In the latter case, you’ll pay the tax to the landlord or the local tourist agency. Details will be supplied on arrival.

Other websites of interest
  • bwo.admin.ch: official Swiss tourist tax regulations (in German)
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Annika
Page author: AnnikaSince early childhood I've been visiting Switzerland during my holidays and I just fell in love with the country. I spent many summers in the Bernese Oberland, which still feels like my second home, and then started to explore other areas. Traveling, hiking and photographing in the Swiss Alps are my absolute favorite activities. I'd be happy to personally help you plan your trip to Switzerland. Please see the link below.