According to figures from NBTC Holland Marketing, 17,6 million people visited the Netherlands last year, which is an increase of 11 percent. Together they spent a total of 12,9 billion euros.
Those spending the largest amounts of money on their visits were typically tourists from outside the European Union. The Netherlands was particularly popular amongst Americans, who collectively spent 1,7 billion euros. This represents an increase of 23 percent in expenditure compared to the previous year.
The greatest number of tourists came from Germany, with over five million visiting the many Dutch cities and towns in the Netherlands. Following on from Germany was Belgium, as the Netherlands received over 2,2 million Belgian tourists.
The UK also makes it into the top three, with just under 2,2 million UK citizens holidaying in the Netherlands. Despite these numbers, the country from which tourism increased the most was Russia. Around 33 percent more Russians took a trip to the Netherlands and this resulted in a total of 175.000 Russian visitors.
The increase in tourist numbers is expected to continue. This year, international visitor numbers are predicted to reach 18,5 million.
According to NBTC Holland Marketing, a new approach is needed when it comes to tourists or else they will end up going to the same places at the same time. Managing director of NBTC Holland Marketing, Jos Vranken, pointed out the need for investment in accessibility, suitable accommodation and facilities as well as new and varied experiences, amongst other things.