rssApr 4, 2026, 05:00

Souvenirs, rubber ducks and stroopwafels: still hundreds of tourist shops in the city

A survey by AT5 identified 583 tourist-oriented businesses in Amsterdam's city center, including 145 souvenir shops and over 120 pizzerias and steakhouses. Despite municipal efforts since 2016 to curb mass tourism, these establishments remain highly prevalent throughout the district. The findings raise questions about the effectiveness of current policies intended to limit the growth of tourist-focused retail and services.

Politics Economy Business Culture Amsterdam Netherlands

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Based on reporting by rss. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

Rembrandt House Museum struggles with falling visitor numbers due to rising hotel VAT and tourist tax: ‘This policy is killing us and the entire city’

Amsterdam's cultural sector is voicing strong opposition to rising tourist taxes and VAT increases, which are blamed for a significant drop in international museum attendance. The Rembrandthuis is among the institutions facing financial strain due to these policies and a negative shift in public attitude toward visitors.

Years of illegal use of Schiphol: environmental groups and local residents take legal action over cabinet plans

A coalition of environmental groups and residents has challenged new government regulations for Schiphol Airport at the Council of State. The plaintiffs claim the rules legitimize years of illegal operations and are seeking a mandatory reduction in flight numbers.

Not just IDFA: Amsterdam’s wider cultural sector hit by rising hotel costs as tourist tax hike drives away key visitors

Amsterdam's cultural sector, including major events like IDFA, ADE, and the Holland Festival, is struggling due to rising tourist taxes and hotel VAT. These increased costs are forcing organizers to raise ticket prices and reduce programming, threatening the accessibility and quality of the city's cultural offerings.

Private landlords are renting out fewer properties in the city: "A problem for students"

Private rental properties in Amsterdam have decreased by 18 percent in three years as landlords sell their units due to new rent control laws and increased taxation. While this shift favors buyers, it creates a significant housing crisis for students and individuals who cannot afford to purchase property in the city.

No funding for Zuidasdok megaproject in new cabinet plans

The Dutch government has frozen funding for the northern part of the Zuidasdok project to prioritize the maintenance of existing national infrastructure. This decision delays one of the country's largest development projects, sparking concerns in Amsterdam over long-term economic and accessibility impacts.