The picturesque Dutch village of Zaanse Schans, a beloved destination known for its stunning windmills, is making a significant change to its visitor policy. Starting next spring, the village plans to implement an entry fee of €17.50 (approximately $20.50 or £15) for visitors from outside the local area. This decision comes as a response to the escalating number of tourists, which has put a strain on the small community and its residents.
Zaanse Schans, a popular day trip from Amsterdam, attracted 2.6 million visitors last year alone. This influx is overwhelming for a village with a resident population of only 100 people. Local authorities state that the high volume of visitors has led to a lack of privacy for residents, with tourists sometimes entering private gardens, knocking on doors, and causing disruptions. Marieke Verweij, director of the village’s museum, explained, “We just don’t have room for all these people!”
The new fee aims to control visitor numbers and generate funds for maintaining the village’s historic windmills and infrastructure, including new public amenities like toilets. Visitors who pay the fee will gain access to the museum and the interiors of the windmills, attractions that are currently paid for separately. This bundled approach is seen by some as a more convenient and complete experience.
However, the proposed charge has raised concerns among local businesses, including shop and restaurant owners. Sterre Schaap, who co-runs a gift shop called Trash and Treasures, fears the fee will deter visitors, especially families, and negatively impact her business. “It will mean that people who don’t have a big wallet won’t be able to come here,” she stated, adding that the cost could deter budget-conscious travelers.
The situation in Zaanse Schans highlights a growing global trend of popular tourist destinations facing challenges with over-tourism. Similar measures have been implemented in places like Bhutan and Venice, where entry fees or daily charges are used to manage visitor flow and preserve the unique character of these locations. Experts like Rachel Dodds, a professor of tourism, note that such strategies are becoming more common as destinations seek sustainable tourism models.
Tourists visiting Zaanse Schans have mixed reactions. Some, like Ishan from Canada, find the proposed fee steep for visiting windmills. Others, like Elisia from Albania, believe it’s a necessary step to preserve the village’s charm. Steve from the US, visiting with his family, sees the bundled entry as a potentially good deal, making the experience more comprehensive.