The Irish city of Galway is considering a new tourism tax that could raise $2.1 million in annual revenue

Galway City on The western side of IrelandIt is widely known for its medieval streets, colorful storefronts and historical monuments. It is now considering a tourism tax that could generate more than $2.1 million a year for the city, according to the Connacht Tribune.

The proposal stipulates the imposition of accommodation fees ranging from $1.10 to $2.20 per visitor per night, for tourists staying in hotels or short-term accommodation.

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Galway City Council’s new tourism officer, Sally-Anne O’Brien, spoke at a meeting this week to address concerns, the Tribune reported.

she said Most European countries 21 of the 27 EU member states already impose similar taxes on visitors.

The city of Galway in Ireland is considering imposing a tourism tax that could generate more than $2.1 million annually for the city. (Athanasios Geombasis/Getty Images)

O’Brien pointed out that many international visitors come from Europe and are accustomed to paying taxes, according to the Irish Independent newspaper.

Any tourism tax would require legislation and approval from the Irish Government at a national level.

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this Good news For opponents of the proposal. At least three prominent local leaders have expressed concern.

Councilor Alan Curran recently said inconsistency in tourism figures could “severely impact our ability to budget effectively,” the newspaper reported.

Galway Tourism Tax revenues will be used to fund tourism-related infrastructure and services. (Istock)

He added: “We have to protect ourselves from these economic shocks.”

When Galway City Council discussed a proposal to explore a tourist tax in 2024, a former mayor and well-known chief executive expressed his dismay.

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Eddie Hoare, former mayor of Galway City, said a tourist tax could “send the wrong message”.

Pat McDonagh, founder of Supermacs, is famous fast food chain In Ireland, he described the proposal as a “ridiculous idea” at a Newstalk breakfast in September 2024.

Kylemore Abbey is a neo-Gothic castle located in Galway, Ireland. (Andrea Innocenti/REDA/Global Image Collection)

He said: “We will be the laughing stock of the country if we impose a tourist tax.”

Recent data shows that Galway continues to attract many visitors.

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Fáilte Ireland 2024 Key Tourism Facts: Galway, published in 2025, reported around 1 million international visitors and 1.4 million domestic tourists, generating more than $1.08 billion.

Travelers took to Reddit to comment on the proposed tax.

Galway has dramatic coastal scenery that consistently ranks among the most photographed and visited in the country. (Istock)

“The local authority needs to think about what it actually is Introducing tourists “At this point if it’s worth what they’re expected to pay anymore,” one Reddit user said.

Another said: “Have to agree. Galway is completely overpriced for what it offers.”

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“There are people online — and unfortunately, in politics — who are watching Hiking taxes “Like infinite free money,” a third Reddit user said.

Others did not understand the anger and annoyance.

As European cities struggle with infrastructure problems and over-tourism, many popular destinations are starting to impose tourist taxes. (Istock)

One traveler said: “This is a normal shipment in cities around the world and it works great.”

“I never bet on a payout that much.”

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Galway attracts dozens of tourists for its unique blend of history, culture and atmosphere.

Its location on the west coast of Ireland adds another big attraction. Galway has Exciting coastal scene Which consistently ranks among the most photographed and visited places in the country.