If you're jetting off to the Balearic Islands this summer your holiday has just become more expensive.

Visitors to islands including Ibiza, Menorca and Majorca will have to pay a 'holiday tax' as of today, with fees dependent on where you are staying.

For example, tourists staying in five star hotels will be charged up two euros a day, while those staying in hostels or shelters will face a daily fee of 50 cents.

Holidaymakers are likely to have to pay the tax up front when they arrive at their hotels, but may be able to pay on checkout in some cases.

It has been estimated that a typical family holiday in the Balearics will cost families an extra £70.

The tax applies to travellers over the age of 16.

Sunset over Ibiza City
Sunset over Ibiza City

The fees are:

  • €2 per person for day at a five star hotel;
  • €1.50 per person per day at a three or four star hotel

After nine nights, the daily rate is discounted by 50 per cent.

A 50 per cent discount also applies between November and April.

The was approved by the Balearic island authorities last month and came into force from today (July 1), the Liverpool Echo reports.

Biel Barcelo, vice president of the islands’ coalition government said the tax is “absolutely necessary” and say the money will go towards protecting natural resources in the area and will ensure “sustainable tourism.”