A Village Overrun by Its Own Popularity
Located just 20 kilometers from the Dutch capital, Zaanse Schans is one of the most photographed villages in the Netherlands. Easily accessible by train, car, or even boat, it’s a staple on many travel itineraries. As a result, the picturesque site now struggles to cope with the massive influx of tourists.
Each day, buses packed with visitors arrive to see the historic windmills, sample cheese at local dairies, or simply stroll along the canals. Last year alone, the village welcomed an estimated 2.6 million tourists—a number that is becoming increasingly unsustainable.
An Entry Fee on the Horizon
To tackle this issue, the neighboring city of Zaanstad is considering a controversial measure: introducing a paid entry system. A fee of €17.50 per person is being proposed for 2026. The goal? To reduce the number of visitors and generate funds to maintain the historic buildings, some of which date back to the 16th century.
Local authorities insist that action must be taken. The heritage of Zaanse Schans is under heavy strain, and without sufficient funding for upkeep, serious damage could occur within a few years.
A Reconstructed Heritage Site
What many tourists don’t realize is that the current layout of Zaanse Schans is not an original village but a curated reconstruction. After World War II, many traditional wooden houses in the region were at risk of being lost. To save them, an ambitious preservation plan was launched to relocate these buildings to a protected site.
The first windmill was placed in 1955, followed by numerous other buildings. In 1972, the site was officially opened. Today, Zaanse Schans showcases the architectural legacy of the Zaan region, in a peaceful riverside setting.
A Divisive Decision
While the plan aims to protect the site, it has sparked concern among residents. Some fear that charging an entrance fee will deter tourists from spending money locally. For a family, the total cost—including parking—could exceed €80, limiting their budget for souvenirs, cheese tasting, or handmade products.
Shop owners, especially cheese shops and souvenir stores, worry about the direct impact on their sales. A petition opposing the entry fee has already gathered thousands of signatures, but so far it hasn’t led to a referendum.
Reassurances for Local Residents
To ease tensions, the municipality has promised that entry will remain free for local residents. Additionally, no physical barriers will be placed around the area—the access will stay open, but monitored. An amendment also allows for a possible postponement of the measure if needed.
Rethinking Tourism in the Netherlands?
Zaanse Schans is not alone. Like many iconic sites in Europe, it now faces the challenges of mass tourism. Balancing preservation and accessibility remains a delicate equation.
So, should visitors pay to see the windmills of Zaanse Schans? The debate is ongoing, and the next few months will be crucial. For now, the village remains free to access… but for how much longer?