Tourism in the Netherlands shows rising visitor numbers but declining overnight stays

While July saw a boost in tourism in the Netherlands due to favorable weather and last-minute bookings, broader trends for the first seven months of 2026 show a decline in the duration of stays. Although the total number of tourists has increased, the number of overnight stays in hotels and holiday parks has slightly decreased.

Regional disparities are significant. Zeeland is struggling, with its market share in Dutch overnight tourism falling to 8.3 percent, the lowest in fifteen years. Experts note that while July was strong, Zeeland is losing ground to other destinations. This decline impacts the broader regional economy, including catering, attractions, and retail.

Additionally, the hospitality sector is facing financial pressure following an increase in VAT on overnight stays from 9 to 21 percent. Economists suggest that hotels are absorbing much of this cost to avoid losing occupancy rates, while also managing rising expenses for labor, energy, and supplies.