Prague looks to increase charge for UK tourists due to 'strain' on city

Local officials want to increase the fee in line with other European destinations to 'better manage tourism'

Prague is the latest of Europe's popular holiday destinations to crack down on over-tourism with plans to increase the tax it charges to overnight guests.

The main tourist area in the Czech Republic capital, the district of Prague 1, wants to increase its current tourist tax of 50 CZK (about £1.66) per person per night due to the 'strain' tourism places on the city centre.

Local officials believe the charge is insufficient compared to the average tourist tax of €7 in other European cities, more than triple Prague's amount. They say aligning with EU standards would help to boost revenue, 'better manage tourism' and ensure Prague remains a 'livable community' as well as a tourist destination.

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Mayor Terezie Radoměřská said: "The proposed increase is crucial, especially given the strain tourism places on the city centre. Tourists should contribute fairly to the cost of public services."

The district has already begun discussions with other authorities to not only raise the maximum rate but also consider a flexible fee system that would allow different districts to set their own limits within the national cap.

It's planned that the extra money raised would help to offset the effects of tourism on public transport, waste collection and other services.

Other European holiday hotspots looking to introduce or increase their tourist taxes include Lanzarote, the Balearic Islands and Barcelona.