A neutral comparison of how the Netherlands and Germany treat cannabis, and what it means for a visitor.
Two different approaches
The Netherlands and Germany have both moved away from strict enforcement, but in different ways. The Dutch approach is built around licensed coffeeshops and a tolerance policy. Germany changed its law in 2024 to allow limited personal possession, home growing and non-profit cannabis clubs, but it does not have coffeeshops.
The Netherlands
- Cannabis remains illegal in law, but selling small amounts in licensed coffeeshops is tolerated.
- A shop may sell up to 5 grams a day to adults aged 18 and over.
- You can sit and use it on the premises, subject to house rules.
- Supply to the shops is not covered by tolerance, though an experiment in regulated supply has been running in some places.
Germany
- Adults can possess limited amounts and grow a small number of plants at home.
- Non-profit cannabis clubs can supply members.
- There are no shops selling cannabis to the public in the way Dutch coffeeshops do.
- Use in public is restricted, with rules about where and when.
What this means for visitors
- You can buy from a licensed coffeeshop in Amsterdam if you are 18 or older.
- Do not take cannabis from the Netherlands into Germany or any other country. It is illegal to carry across a border.
- German rules apply on German soil, and they differ from Dutch ones. Learn the local rules before you go.
Keep in mind
Laws in both countries are still developing, so details can change. Check official sources for the latest position before you rely on this summary.
This is a general comparison and not legal advice.
See the Dutch tolerance policy for more.