Tourist tax
When staying at De Drie Koningen in Bruges, a tourist tax applies to all overnight guests. This page explains clearly what the tourist tax is, why it is charged, and how it is handled, so you can prepare for your stay in Bruges with complete transparency.
The tourist tax in Bruges is a mandatory local tax imposed by the City of Bruges on overnight stays for adults. Like in many historic European cities, this tax helps fund:
- Preservation of Bruges’ UNESCO World Heritage site
- City maintenance, cleanliness, and infrastructure
- Tourism services and visitor facilities
Is the tourist tax included in my booking price?
Yes. The tourist tax is already included in the total price shown at the time of booking. There are no hidden fees or unexpected charges.
How and when is the tourist tax charged?
Booking.com
The tourist tax is handled directly by us and is charged on the day of arrival.
As we don’t have a permanent on-site reception like in a hotel, guests are asked to confirm their credit card details after reserving the holiday rental on Booking.com.
Once this has been completed, the access codes and check-in information will be sent automatically 7 days before arrival. To ensure a smooth check-in experience, we recommend completing this step well in advance of your stay.
- Booking.com does not want to collect the tourist tax. We could factor this into the price of the stay, but then Booking.com would also charge commission on that.
- Please notify us of any changes to the number of guests via the Booking.com inbox. This will allow us to adjust the applicable tourist tax.
AirBnB
When you book through Airbnb, the tourist tax is collected automatically by Airbnb during the booking process.
- This OTA can collect and remit tourist tax directly, without applying any commission fees to the tax amount.
- Changes to the number of guests can be made via the Airbnb platform
- Any discrepancies can be resolved via a payment request or refund through the Airbnb platform, for example if a couple in the group leaves a day early.
Directly
The tourist tax is automatically included in the total rental amount and is subject to the same payment terms. Fifty percent of the total rental amount is payable 60 days prior to arrival, with the balance due 14 days before arrival.
- Please notify us of any changes to the number of guests. This will allow us to adjust the applicable tourist tax.
- In the event of cancellation, the tourist tax paid will be refunded.
VRBO
The tourist tax is included in the total rental amount of the holiday rental. As a result, VRBO also applies its commission to the tourist tax.
Questions about the tourist tax?
If you have any questions about the tourist tax in Bruges or about your reservation at De Drie Koningen, please feel free to contact us. We are happy to assist and ensure your stay is comfortable, transparent, and worry-free.