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Understanding the French City Tax (Taxe de Séjour)

The French city tax, known as "taxe de séjour" or tourist tax, is a local tax imposed on visitors staying in tourist accommodations. It plays a crucial role in funding local tourism infrastructure and services. Here's everything you need to know to manage it smoothly.

Who Pays the City Tax?

Guests staying in taxable accommodations such as hotels, campsites, and vacation rentals are responsible for paying the city tax. However, certain groups are exempt from this obligation, including minors, seasonal workers, and people in emergency shelters.

Who Collects the City Tax?

As an intermediary, Holidu is responsible for collecting the city tax from your guests and submitting it to the local municipality. Please note that for Airbnb bookings, the platform handles the collection and declaration of the City Tax to your municipality on your behalf.

How is the City Tax Calculated?

The tax is typically charged per guest per night. The rates depend on accommodation type and classification, such as the number of stars. Higher classification usually means a higher tax rate.

Each municipality sets the rate, adhering to legal limits, and may adjust it annually. Some cities also impose an additional regional tax of up to 15% on the base tourist tax.

Example Rates (as of 2025)

Source: https://entreprendre.service-public.fr/vosdroits/F31635

How is the City Tax Paid?

Guests pay the city tax directly to the channel at the time of booking. You don't need to worry about collection or payment, as Holidu collects, pays, and declares the tax to local authorities and the French Tax Collector on your behalf.

Reporting and Payment to Authorities

Holidu declares and transfers the city tax directly to the competent authorities, not to the host. This ensures compliance with French regulations.

Please note that Holidu does not provide hosts with proof of tax payment to the French government. No tax receipt or report is issued to the host; the reporting is sent directly to the authority twice a year.

Check and/or Modify Your Ratings on Holidu

To ensure you're adhering to all requirements and making the process smooth, please check the ratings configured in your Holidu Host Account. Follow these steps:

1. Select your property
2. Go to "Configuration" on the top-left side
3. Go to the menu "General Information"
4. In the "Property Information" section, click on "Edit"
5. Check the information in "Stars (classification)" and modify if needed
6. Click on "Save"

Accurate star classification is important, as it directly affects the city tax rate applied to your property. Make sure your property information is always up to date.