Madeira tourist tax: how much and who pays

Since 2024 most municipalities in Madeira charge a municipal tourist tax, the taxa municipal turística. The money goes to the town where you sleep and is meant to pay for the extra pressure of tourism: cleaning, maintenance and public spaces.

How much is it?

The municipalities agreed a common model:

• €2 per guest per night
• Up to a maximum of seven nights per stay
• Children under 13 do not pay

So two adults staying a week pay €28 in total, and staying longer than seven nights costs nothing extra.

Funchal has said it is reviewing its tax, so the amount could change. Your booking or your host will always tell you the current rate.

Where it applies

The tax applies in Funchal and in most other municipalities, including Santa Cruz, Machico, Santana, Calheta, Ponta do Sol and Ribeira Brava, and other councils have followed. Porto Santo also charges one. It covers hotels, guesthouses and holiday apartments (alojamento local).

Who is exempt

• Children under 13
• Residents of the Autonomous Region of Madeira staying in their own municipality’s accommodation, depending on local rules
• People travelling for medical treatment, and some people with disabilities, with documents
• Nights beyond the seventh in the same stay

Exemptions vary slightly by town, so ask your accommodation if one might apply to you.

How you pay

You pay the accommodation, not the town hall. Some hosts collect it with the booking; others ask for it on arrival or departure. Booking platforms often show it separately as “city tax” and it may not be included in the headline price. Ask for a receipt that shows it.

Is it worth worrying about?

It is a small part of a trip, but it is good to know before you compare prices. When a listing looks cheaper, check whether the tax and cleaning fee are included.