India, Sept. 30 -- Zaanse Schans, the historic Dutch village famed for its riverside windmills and gabled wooden houses, is planning a EUR 17.50 (INR 1,826) entrance fee from 2026 in a bid to curb soaring tourist numbers. This neighbourhood in the Dutch town of Zaandam, just outside Amsterdam, welcomed 2.6 million visitors in 2024 and is expected to see 2.8 million this year, despite a resident population of roughly 100.

Local authorities describe the village as "a national symbol of overtourism," citing pressure on heritage buildings, safety concerns, and the erosion of residents' quality of life. The Board of Mayor and Aldermen in Zaanstad says ticket income will fund maintenance, infrastructure upgrades, and preservation efforts, incl...