Lisbon Eateries Accused of Dual Pricing for Tourists and Locals

In a controversial development, restaurants in Lisbon are reportedly implementing a dual pricing system, charging tourists more than local diners. This practice has come to light in the scenic historic center of Portugal's capital, a city steeped in history dating back to pre-Roman times.

According to a report by the Portuguese weekly newspaper Expresso, eateries display tourist prices on menus in multiple languages. However, lower rates for locals are communicated discreetly, either verbally or on hidden menus. This revelation has sparked debate about the legality and ethics of such practices in a city known for its rich culinary traditions, including its famous seafood and pastéis de nata.

Industry experts have declared this discriminatory pricing "completely illegal." The AHRESP, Portugal's hospitality industry association, stated they were unaware of such practices and emphasized that prices must be equal and transparent for all customers.

This controversy emerges against a backdrop of growing concerns over mass tourism in Lisbon and neighboring Spain. The Portuguese capital, built on seven hills like Rome, received 6.5 million foreign visitors in 2023, putting significant pressure on local infrastructure and housing.

Local residents have initiated campaigns to mitigate the negative impacts of what they perceive as "overtourism." These efforts include a proposed ban on tuk-tuk three-wheeler taxis, popular among sightseers navigating the city's narrow streets. Additionally, a petition with 9,000 signatures has been presented to trigger a referendum on ending short-term, Airbnb-style rentals for tourists.

The impact of tourism on Lisbon's housing market has been substantial. Since 2015, rents have soared by 94%, while house prices have increased by a staggering 186%. This surge has made affordable housing a pressing issue for locals in a city that was named European Green Capital in 2020.

In response to these challenges, Lisbon's city council has decided to increase its tourist tax on overnight stays from two to four euros per night, effective September 1, 2024. This measure aims to balance the benefits of tourism with the needs of local residents.

The situation in Lisbon mirrors similar issues in other popular European destinations. Barcelona, for instance, has decided to terminate the licenses of 10,000 legal short-term rental apartments by 2028, addressing comparable concerns about tourism's impact on local life.

Despite these challenges, Portugal's tourism sector continues to grow. The country welcomed 26.5 million foreign tourists in 2023, marking a 19.2% increase from the previous year and surpassing pre-pandemic levels by 7.7%.

As Lisbon grapples with these issues, it continues to attract visitors with its blend of history, culture, and innovation. The city hosts the annual Web Summit, one of the world's largest tech conferences, and boasts attractions like the Vasco da Gama Bridge, Europe's longest, and one of the continent's largest aquariums. Balancing the preservation of its unique character, including traditions like Fado music, with the demands of modern tourism remains a key challenge for this vibrant Mediterranean city.