Amsterdam faces lawsuit over exceeding tourist cap
Updated
Updated · CBS New York · May 3
Amsterdam faces lawsuit over exceeding tourist cap
14 articles · Updated · CBS New York · May 3
Residents and economist Jasper van Dijk say the city breached its agreed 20 million limit after attracting a record 23 million visitors in 2024.
Campaigners argue measures including a 12.5% tourist tax, red-light district tour bans and earlier bar closures have helped but came too late to protect residents.
The case reflects a wider European backlash against overtourism, with cities including Venice and Portofino imposing entry fees, fines and other restrictions as global travel keeps rising.
With Amsterdam's tourist tax now at 33.5%, are top destinations becoming playgrounds exclusively for the wealthy?
As eco-tourism nears a $1 trillion valuation, can it save destinations or is it just 'green' overconsumption?
Legal Clash Over Amsterdam’s 20 Million Visitor Limit as Tourism Surges Beyond Cap
Overview
In 2026, the residents' group "Amsterdam Has A Choice" filed a lawsuit against the Amsterdam City Council for failing to enforce a 2021 bylaw that capped overnight leisure stays at 20 million. Despite measures like tourist taxes, rental limits, and a hotel construction freeze, overnight stays reached 22.9 million in 2024, fueling a housing crisis and social tensions, especially in the historic city center. The lawsuit, supported by 30,000 residents and crowdfunding, challenges the council's view that the cap is non-binding. Business groups warn strict enforcement could harm the economy and increase illegal activities. The case could set a global precedent, highlighting Amsterdam's struggle to balance tourism growth with resident well-being.