How Much Is Hotel Tax in Prague?
Traveling to a new city involves planning, budgeting, and understanding the various expenses you may incur during your stay. One such expense that visitors to Prague need to be aware of is the hotel tax.
The hotel tax, also known as the accommodation tax or tourist tax, is a fee charged by hotels in Prague to guests for their stay. In this article, we will explore how much the hotel tax is in Prague and provide you with all the necessary information.
What is the Hotel Tax?
The hotel tax is a mandatory fee imposed by the local government on hotels and other accommodation providers in Prague. This fee is then passed on to guests who are staying at these establishments.
The purpose of this tax is to contribute to the development and maintenance of tourism infrastructure within the city.
It’s important to note that not all types of accommodation are subject to this tax. Only registered hotels, hostels, guesthouses, and other official accommodation providers are legally required to collect this fee from their guests.
How Much Do You Have to Pay?
The amount you have to pay for the hotel tax depends on several factors including location, type of accommodation, and duration of your stay. Currently, there are three different rates for the hotel tax in Prague:
- Category 1: This category applies to hotels located within Prague’s city center or historical districts. Guests staying in these areas are required to pay a higher rate.
- Category 2: Hotels located outside of Category 1 areas fall under Category 2.
The rate for Category 2 accommodations is lower compared to Category 1.
- Category 3: This category includes all other accommodation providers such as hostels, guesthouses, and apartments. The tax rate for Category 3 establishments is the lowest.
Examples of Hotel Tax Rates
To give you a better idea of how much the hotel tax in Prague can be, here are a few examples:
Example 1:
You are staying at a Category 1 hotel in Prague’s city center for two nights. The current rate for Category 1 accommodations is CZK 21 (approximately $1) per person per night.
Therefore, you will have to pay CZK 42 ($2) as the hotel tax.
Example 2:
If you choose to stay at a Category 2 hotel located outside of the city center for three nights, the rate for Category 2 accommodations is CZK 15 (approximately $0.70) per person per night. In this case, your total hotel tax would amount to CZK 45 ($2.10).
Example 3:
For those staying at a Category 3 accommodation such as a hostel or guesthouse, the rate is CZK 7 (approximately $0.30) per person per night. If you stay for four nights, your total hotel tax would be CZK 28 ($1.30).
Payment and Collection
The hotel tax in Prague is typically collected by the accommodation provider during check-in or check-out. They will add the tax amount to your bill and provide you with an official receipt or proof of payment.
It’s important to keep in mind that the hotel tax is separate from your room rate and other charges. Therefore, it’s essential to factor in this additional expense when budgeting for your trip to Prague.
Conclusion
Understanding the hotel tax in Prague is crucial for anyone planning a visit to this beautiful city. Remember that the tax amount varies depending on the location and type of accommodation you choose.
By being aware of these rates and including them in your budget, you can avoid any surprises during your stay in Prague.