Galway weighs nightly tourist levy to fund city upgrades

Galway, Ireland is weighing an overnight visitor levy that would charge about $1.10–$2.20 per guest per night for hotel or short‑term stays, with potential annual revenue above $2.1 million to fund tourism infrastructure and services. The plan requires national legislation and approval, and faces opposition from local leaders who warn it could unsettle budgets or send the wrong message. Supporters note that many EU countries already apply similar fees, while Galway continues to attract about 1 million international and 1.4 million domestic visitors, highlighting the city’s push to manage tourism growth.