Amsterdam (Netherlands)

In the Netherlands, cannabis remains formally illegal under the Dutch Opium Act, but the government operates a toleration policy (gedoogbeleid) in practice.

Under this policy:

• Selling small amounts of cannabis (marijuana or hash) is tolerated when done through licensed coffeeshops that meet strict rules: no sales to minors, no advertising, no hard drugs on site, and limits on transaction size.
• Possession of up to 5 grams for personal use is generally not prosecuted.
• Growing cannabis remains illegal (except under specific medical-cultivation licenses); the supply chain into coffeeshops is still technically illegal, which is why the system is described as “tolerated” rather than fully legal.
• Public consumption may be controlled by local municipalities; for example, some areas restrict smoking cannabis outdoors or in certain districts. (Coffee shops remain the typical safe place.)

For tourists in Amsterdam, this means if you’re 18 or over with valid ID, you can enter a licensed coffeeshop, buy up to the tolerated amount (usually 5 g), and consume it onsite or in a suitable private setting (if allowed by your accommodation). However, you still carry some legal risk: cultivation, large quantities, or purchasing outside regulated coffeeshops remain illegal.

Germany

Germany introduced new legislation on 1 April 2024 with the Cannabis Act (Cannabisgesetz) (CanG) and associated reforms.

Key rules for adults (18+) apply, but with significant stipulations:

• Possession in public is legal in small amounts: up to 25 grams of dried cannabis.
• In private homes, up to 50 grams is permitted.
• Cultivation: Up to 3 plants per adult for personal use is allowed.
• From 1 July 2024, non-profit “cannabis social clubs” (max 500 members each) may distribute small amounts to their licensed members.

Important for tourists: despite the above liberalization, the law explicitly excludes tourists and short-term visitors from these purchase/distribution systems. Tourists cannot legally buy cannabis in Germany, cannot join the social clubs, and cannot import cannabis even if they already have it.
Additionally, consumption in public spaces may still be restricted (e.g., near schools or pedestrian zones during certain hours) depending on local state laws.

What this means for your trip

• If your goal is to partake in soft-cannabis in a relaxed, legal‐tolerated way, Amsterdam remains the clearer option. Just follow the house rules of the coffeeshop, keep quantities modest, and adhere to local smoking policies.
• Germany offers legal personal use for residents under the new regulations—but not for tourists. If you’re visiting Germany, you should not rely on being able to buy cannabis legally.
• Regardless of destination: avoid transporting cannabis across borders. Even if you buy legally (or tolerated) in one country, taking it to another can trigger serious legal risks.
• Always check local municipal rules (cities and states often add their own restrictions on where you can consume).
• Be aware of driving laws: both places enforce strong rules on drug-impaired driving.

Summary

While both the Netherlands and Germany have moved toward more liberal cannabis policies, the experiences for tourists differ sharply:

• Amsterdam: Licensed coffeeshop sales to adults are tolerated, and you can purchase small amounts if you meet the criteria.
• Germany: Legal changes allow adult possession and home-growing—but not legal retail purchases for tourists.

Always travel informed, respect local rules, and when in doubt, assume the stricter interpretation applies.