If you’re planning a visit to Edinburgh from 24 July 2026 onwards, you’ll want to understand the new Edinburgh Visitor Levy – Scotland’s first overnight accommodation visitor levy. This guide explains what it is, how it works, who pays it, and how it might affect your stay.
What is the Edinburgh Visitor Levy?
The Edinburgh Visitor Levy is a charge introduced by the City of Edinburgh Council under the Visitor Levy (Scotland) Act 2024. It is a 5% charge on the cost of paid overnight accommodation in Edinburgh, charged on the first 5 nights of your stay.
When does the Visitor Levy Start?
From 1st October 2025 any reservations made to arrive from 24th July 2026 onwards.
How much is the levy?
Guests will pay an additional 5% of the cost of the overnight stay, calculated before VAT. This 5% charge is applicable to the first 5 nights of your reservation.
Which Types of Accommodation are covered?
The levy applies to all paid overnight stays in Edinburgh, including:
- Hotels and hostels
- Bed & breakfasts and guest houses
- Self-catering apartments and short-term lets
- Caravan and campsites (like Linwater Caravan Park)
- Accommodation in vehicles/boats when predominantly stationary
- Student lets used by non-Edinburgh students
If I live in the UK, do I have to pay the Visitor Levy?
Yes, most visitors have to pay the visitor levy, regardless of where you have travelled from.
Who is exempt from paying the Edinburgh Visitor Levy?
All guests are expected to pay the 5% charge, even if they fall into one of the categories below. Exempt guests can then apply for reimbursement via The City of Edinburgh Council.
People not required to pay include:
- Individuals without a usual place of residence (e.g., homeless people)
- Refugees and asylum seekers
- People living in unsafe housing conditions
- Some members of the Gypsy/Traveller community
- People receiving specified disability benefits – and a companion staying with them in the same accommodation, where applicable
If I am travelling for business, am I exempt?
No, business travellers will still be required to pay the levy.
Guests staying at Linwater Caravan Park
If you have any queries on how the Visitor Levy affects your stay at Linwater Caravan Park, please get in touch today!
