Amsterdam welcomed over 17 million visitors last year, according to research by Colliers International, up from 12 million visitors in 2011.
Compared to the 850,000 residents who live there, it is a huge amount to welcome every year to a small city.
However, it is now looking to prevent any more tourist shops – being those that sell any souvenirs and tour packages as well as bike rentals – to open in the city.
Even food shops that sell fast food could be limited, just the latest tourist change following on from the recent tourist tax increase easier this year.
The Dutch capital currently has 280 tourist shops in the centre, yet it will no longer allow any more to apply for licenses.
Kajsa Ollongren, deputy mayor for economic affairs told Dutch newspaper Parool: “The situation in our city centre requires firm measures. I see too many shops offering more of the same, solely targeting tourists.
“Nowhere else in the world has such a decision been made.
“The balance is missing. We are only getting more of the same, and that is not good for our quality of life.”
It is hoped to bring more balance to the city, and to avoid problems other European cities are facing such as Venice with locals feeling pushed out.
Janine Fluyt, spokeswoman for Amsterdam Marketing stated: “Amsterdam is not an open air museum, but has people who live and work here, so the focus is on balance.”
Many European destinations have been part of anti-tourist marches and demonstrations in protest of the influx of travellers.
Destinations in Italy, Spain and Croatia have all been part of the anti-tourist attacks.
Dubrovnik has suffered due to the number of cruises heading to the destination, allowing thousands of visitors into the famous Game of Thrones city at one time.
Graffiti throughout Spain can also be seen, in popular spots such as Majorca and Barcelona.
However, Spain’s Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy has been baffled by the response.
She stated: “I don’t know if we have to receive tourists with placards saying welcome Mr Tourist, but what we can’t do is kick those people who come here to spend money. That seems to me to be crazy.”
