With the entry into force of the tourist tax collection since April 13, Lagoa has joined the group of Algarve municipalities that receive an amount for overnight stays by tourists in the municipality, along with Portimão, Vila Real de Santo António, Faro and Olhão. In a statement, the municipality explained that the tax is worth two euros between April 1 and October 31 and one euro between November 1 and March 31, up to a maximum of seven consecutive nights for all guests aged 13 or over.

Guests aged up to 12, disabled, with a disability equal to or greater than 60%, as well as people whose stay is motivated by medical treatment, with a companion, and those whose stay is the subject of a proven offer by tourist developments, are exempt from paying the tax.

The same applies to national and foreign students who enter the University of Algarve and who use tourist developments and local accommodation establishments at the beginning of each school year, up to a maximum of 60 consecutive days, according to the note.

The amount collected with the tourist tax, justifies the municipality, aims to "reinforce strategic investments in the enhancement of the municipality as a destination of tourist excellence".

In May, Albufeira should also join this group of municipalities, after the Council concludes the process of approving the municipal regulation for the application of the tourist tax in the municipality, whose proposal was in public consultation until February.

The draft regulation submitted for public discussion by the Albufeira Council also provides for the application of a value of two euros, to be charged between April and October, the high season for tourism in the Algarve.

The amount raised by the municipalities is intended to cover expenses and investments related to tourist activity, such as environmental sustainability, promotion, preservation of historical heritage, cultural entertainment, beach cleaning or maintenance of public equipment.

The tourist tax applies to people who stay overnight in tourist developments, in local accommodation establishments, in campsites and in caravan parks.

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