rssApr 4, 2026, 05:00

The battle against tourist shops: why the city center isn't changing

The municipality of Amsterdam is struggling to reduce the number of tourist-oriented shops in its city center, with research showing that 583 such businesses still exist despite years of restrictive policies. Residents remain frustrated by the retail monoculture of souvenir shops and fast-food outlets that has largely replaced local-focused businesses since the 1980s.

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.