In an opinion article for Het Parool, tourism strategist Isabel Mosk asks an important question: what does Amsterdam actually want to change by increasing its tourist tax?
The debate frequently focuses on who pays the bill. However, if liveability is the objective, tourism policy must look beyond hotel stays. Day visitors, crowding, dispersal, visitor behaviour and the benefits residents experience in their neighbourhoods must also be considered.
Isabel argues that a tourist tax can be justified. Without a clear purpose for its revenue, targeted policy and public accountability, however, it does not constitute a comprehensive tourism strategy.
Read the opinion: The tourism debate should address not only who pays, but also how to make the city more liveable – Het Parool
Publication date: 21 June 2026