The tax, legislated for by the region’s previous administration, was due to come into effect on 1 January charging visitors up to €2 per night, depending on their chosen accommodation, for up to seven nights.

Carlos Mazon, president of the Region of Valencia, called the tax “unfair and unnecessary” and said one of his government’s first actions would be to overturn it.

“This tax directly attacks the way our sector operates,” said Mazon at a press conference. “We want to tell you – with complete clarity – Valencia will be a tax-free destination for tourism.”

Mazon revealed he would be sending anotice to repeal the tax to Valencia’s government later this week, and had met with Abta to have news of the tax’s scrapping communicated to UK travel agents.

The UK remains the region’s largest source market, with 2.2 million of the 15.1 million Brits who visited Spain in 2022 visiting the area.

“Our story with the British tourist is one of affection, mutual respect and hospitality,” added Mazon. “This winter, we have forward seat bookings between the UK and our airports 23% higher than last year.”