Planning a trip to Amsterdam in 2026?
You might’ve heard something about a VAT increase on accommodation. No stress! We’re here to make things simple. Here’s what’s changing, why it’s happening, and what it means for your stay at MEININGER Hotels.
Why is VAT on accommodation increasing in the Netherlands?
The Dutch government has announced that the reduced VAT rate of 9% for accommodation will be discontinued. The goal is to simplify the tax system and strengthen public finances. As a result, hotel stays, campsites, and short-stay accommodation will move to the standard VAT rate of 21%.
📅 When?
The change applies from January 1, 2026 onwards.
What does this mean for you as a hotel guest?
From January 1, 2026, accommodation in Amsterdam will be taxed at 21% VAT instead of 9%. This applies to:
- All room rates
- Packages that include accommodation
- Accommodation-related supplements
💡 Good to know:
Hospitality services like breakfast, dinner, and bar drinks already fall under a different VAT rate—so nothing changes there.
How we’re handling the VAT change
We believe in being transparent, that’s why we want you to know exactly how we’re managing this change, depending on when and where you booked your stay.
1. Bookings made via our official website, Customer Care, or selected partners
(Hostelworld, HRS, Dorms.com, Check24)
1.1 Bookings made before November 25, 2025
If you booked a stay in 2026 before November 25, 2025:
- The total VAT increase is 12% (from 9% to 21%)
- MEININGER covers 6%
- The remaining 6% is passed on to you
1.2 Bookings made from November 25, 2025 onwards
For reservations made on or after this date:
➡️ The new 21% VAT rate is already included in your booking price.
2. Bookings made via Booking.com
2.1 Bookings made before November 10, 2025
If you booked a 2026 stay before November 10, 2025:
- The VAT increases by 12%
- MEININGER covers 6%
- The remaining 6% is passed on to you
2.2 Bookings made from November 10, 2025 onwards
For bookings made on or after this date:
➡️ The 21% VAT rate is already included in your price.
3. New bookings from January 1, 2026
➡️ From this date, the standard 21% VAT rate applies to all new bookings.
How do you pay your share of the VAT increase?
If you booked before November 10, 2025 (Booking.com) or before November 25, 2025 (all other channels) for a stay in 2026:
➡️ The 6% VAT difference will be charged when you arrive; simple, clear, and with no surprises.
Got questions? We’re here for you
If anything’s unclear or you’d like help with your booking, our Central Reservations team is happy to help.
➡️ Reach out via our contact form and we’ll take it from there.
️Amsterdam VAT Increase 2026 FAQs
When does the VAT increase in Amsterdam start?
The new 21% VAT rate on accommodation applies to stays from January 1, 2026 onwards.
How much is the VAT on hotel stays in Amsterdam in 2026?
From 2026, accommodation in Amsterdam is taxed at 21% VAT, up from the previous 9% reduced rate.
Does the VAT increase apply to all hotel bookings?
Yes. The new VAT rate applies to:
- Room rates
- Packages that include accommodation
- Accommodation-related supplementsI booked my stay before the VAT change. Will my price increase?
If you booked before November 10, 2025 (Booking.com) or before November 25, 2025 (all other channels) for a stay in 2026, a 6% VAT increase will be passed on to you.
The remaining 6% is covered by MEININGER.When do I pay the additional VAT amount?
If applicable, the 6% VAT difference will be charged upon arrival at the hotel.
If I book now, is the VAT already included in the price?
Yes. For bookings made after the relevant cut-off dates, the 21% VAT rate is already included in the price you see when booking.
