The historic Dutch village of Zaanse Schans is well known for its windmills, which a significant number of tourists wish to see. These windmills are among the most picturesque examples in the Netherlands and are easily accessible from Amsterdam. Last year, the village saw 2.6 million visitors—an impressive number for a small place with a resident population of just 100.
In response to the overwhelming influx, the local council has announced plans to implement an entry fee of €17.50 (approximately $20.50 or £15) for all visitors from outside the area starting next spring. The aim is to control the number of tourists visiting the village, which has raised concerns among local businesses.
Marieke Verweij, the director of the village's museum, explains the reasoning behind the measure, citing an increase in visitors from 1.7 million in 2017 to an anticipated 2.8 million this year. She notes the lack of space for such a large crowd and the unfortunate behavior of some tourists who intrude on the privacy of local residents.
Despite the planned fee, visitors will benefit from included admission to the museum and windmills, which previously required separate payment. However, local shop and restaurant owners fear that the fee could deter budget-conscious tourists and negatively impact their businesses.
As discussions on tourism management continue, Zaanse Schans is setting a precedent, joining a few other global destinations that have adopted similar practices to control visitor numbers. The council intends to use the funds raised from the fee to enhance village infrastructure while preserving its charm and accessibility.
