Amsterdam's new coalition government has unveiled a series of radical proposals aimed at curbing overtourism, including a 20% tourist tax and the closure of the city's cruise port. The plans, outlined in a coalition agreement published this week, seek to reduce the pressure of mass tourism on the city's infrastructure and quality of life.
Currently, Amsterdam already imposes one of Europe's highest tourist taxes, at 12% of the overnight accommodation price or a €15 flat fee for day trippers. Under the new proposals, the tax would rise to 16% next year, increasing by one percentage point annually until reaching 20% by 2030. The revenue would be used to fund improvements to public spaces, maintenance, and enforcement.
The agreement also calls for the closure of the city's cruise terminal, effectively ending sea cruise arrivals. Additionally, the government plans to systematically buy up buildings and buy out businesses in the city centre to transform the area. Other measures include hiking the entertainment levy on canal boat rentals and scrapping a planned 'Erotic Centre' for sex workers, instead focusing on small-scale initiatives to relieve pressure in the Red Light District.
The coalition will also reduce city promotion aimed at tourists and cut funding for the marketing organisation Amsterdam&Partners, which manages the 'I amsterdam' brand. The agreement aims to create a 'more balanced new visitor economy' with greater collaboration among businesses, residents, and knowledge institutions. The proposals are set to be discussed on 10 June and will shape the local government's agenda for the next four years.
