The Dutch lodging sector experienced record-breaking guest numbers in 2024, with 51.7 million visitors staying in hotels, campsites, and vacation homes, according to data from Statistics Netherlands.
This marks a nearly five percent increase from 2023 and represents the first time in a decade that the country’s accommodations surpassed the 50 million mark.
Both domestic and international tourism contributed to the growth. The number of foreign visitors rose by five percent to 21.3 million, while domestic tourism saw a four percent increase, reaching 30.3 million.
Hotels remained the dominant choice for travelers, hosting over 33 million guests—four percent more than the previous year. Vacation rentals also saw an increase in occupancy, while campsites and group accommodations maintained similar levels to 2023.
According to a report by NL Times, regional trends varied, with Groningen seeing the highest surge in visitors, recording 900,000 overnight guests—an 11 percent increase.
Noord-Holland, particularly Amsterdam, remained the most visited province, attracting over 16 million guests. In contrast, Overijssel was the only province to experience a decline, with visitor numbers dropping by three percent.
For business owners in the outdoor hospitality sector, these figures highlight shifting tourism patterns and opportunities for growth.
The steady performance of campgrounds and group accommodations suggests a stable market, while the increase in vacation home stays indicates rising consumer interest in alternative lodging.
As the Netherlands continues to attract both domestic and international visitors, operators may benefit from investing in strategies that enhance guest experiences, capitalize on regional tourism trends, and cater to evolving traveler preferences.
With record-breaking numbers and an increasingly competitive market, businesses in the outdoor hospitality industry must remain adaptable.
Understanding the factors driving regional tourism growth, such as Groningen’s notable increase in visitors, can provide valuable insights for campground and lodging operators looking to maximize occupancy and revenue.
According to Statistics Netherlands, “The number of guests in hotels, campsites, and vacation homes in the Netherlands rose to record levels last year.” This growth presents an opportunity for businesses to refine their offerings and capitalize on a strong tourism market.
