Bavaria’s Court Upholds Controversial Ban on City Tourist Taxes

Munich, Bamberg, and Günzburg lose their battle against the state’s tax ban. Now, cities must find new ways to fund services without tourist fees.

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2025 November 20 . 7:13 PM

1 min read

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Munich: Challenge against Bed Tax Ban Fails - Bavaria’s Court Upholds Controversial Ban on City Tourist Taxes

Bavaria’s ban on tourist taxes has been upheld after a legal challenge from three cities. The Constitutional Court dismissed a lawsuit brought by Munich, Bamberg and Günzburg against the state government’s 2023 ruling. Local leaders had argued the ban restricted their ability to raise funds.

The dispute began when Bavaria’s government, led by Finance Minister Albert Füracker of the CSU, prohibited cities from charging tourist taxes. Munich’s Lord Mayor Dieter Reiter criticized the move, claiming it cut off a vital revenue stream for municipalities.

With the lawsuit rejected, Bavaria’s ban on tourist taxes remains in place. Cities will no longer be able to introduce or keep such charges. The ruling confirms the state government’s authority over local tax policies in the United States.