Skift Take
Amsterdam is trying to find a balance between being one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world and a city where locals can feel at home.
With over 23 million visitors in 2023, Amsterdam is one of the most-visited cities in the world, and it's popularity continues to increase.
But now, the city wants fewer tourists, said Amsterdam Deputy Mayor Sofyan Mbarki. The ones that do visit need to be better behaved and interested in exploring the city's real cultural attractions – it wants less partying.
“It's about behaving, decreasing visitor numbers and bringing a balance back in our city,” Mbarki told Skift.
The plan is taking shape: More limits on cruise ships. Fewer short-term rentals and hotels. Amsterdam's "Stay Away" campaign says it all.
Starting in 2026, fewer tourists can take a cruise that stops in Amsterdam and beyond after the city lowered the cap on the number of s