The Netherlands continues to grow in popularity as a summer destination, with almost 10 million people having a holiday in the country in July and August this year, the national statistics agency CBS said on Monday.

Dutch tourists accounted for more than half the total – with 5.53 million people taking a short break in their home country in the peak summer period, the CBS figures show.

The total number of tourists grew by 4.4% while the number of nights spent in holiday accommodation were up 7.6% at 35 million – with Dutch tourists accounting for over 21 million nights away.

The coastal provinces on Zeeland and Noord-Holland were the most popular destinations and holiday parks attracted 12% more visitors, the CBS said.

The tourist boom continued into September and visitor numbers rose 6% that month.

Explore the Dutch coast
A weekend exploring the former island of Walcheren
Exploring the shores of Ameland
Getting windblown in winter on Texel