Edinburgh’s tourist tax won’t solve the the problem of overtourism

All paid accommodation in the Scottish capital will now charge a five per cent fee on top of the original booking cost - (Getty Images)

Edinburgh has become the first UK city to charge all overnight visitors a tourism tax. As of Friday, 24 July, anyone staying in paid accommodation will pay a five per cent fee on top of their original booking cost.

Accommodations will pass the levy onto the local authority, which says funds will be reinvested into Edinburgh’s infrastructure and public spaces, as well as arts and community projects including the famous Fringe Festival.