As you know, the COVID-19 pandemic is still very much among us. Globally, cases are still increasing, and although the Netherlands has been relatively successful in containing the virus, the Dutch have also been seeing seeing an uptick in new infections over recent weeks. Measures come and go, both on a national scale and locally. Coffeeshop Info Centre gives you this update on current Amsterdam coronavirus measures to make sure you know what (not) to do when you’re in town.
Amsterdam Coronavirus Measures For Your Safe Stay In Town
Make no mistake: we still love you for visiting and we really hope to see you soon. Thing is, we also want to see you enjoy your visit and return home safely, so please observe the following rules in Amsterdam and you should be good!
As time passes by, the city of Amsterdam is slowly getting back on its feet. In the meantime, several regulations have been lifted and for a while, mayor Halsema introduced a mandatory face mask while shopping in the most popular streets of Amsterdam. As the situation develops, rules keep changing, so staying up to date is essential for your safe stay in our wonderful capital.
Let’s take a moment to dive into the current situation and Amsterdam coronavirus measures, so you know what to expect when you are visiting Amsterdam. First, let’s take a look at the current measures in the entire country of The Netherlands.
Nationwide Dutch COVID-19 Measures
During your stay in the Netherlands you must follow the nationwide rules imposed to prevent the spread of COVID-19. These rules apply to everyone in the Netherlands, including tourists.
- If you have symptoms, get tested as soon as possible and stay at home – or in your accommodation if you’re visiting from abroad;
- Maintain a distance of 1.5 metres (approx. six feet) from other people;
- Wash your hands frequently;
- Don’t shake hands with others;
- Cough and sneeze into your elbow;
- Avoid crowded places. Leave if you notice it is becoming difficult to keep a distance of 1.5 metres.
If you are interested in reading more about the general rules active in The Netherlands, read this statement.
Additional Amsterdam Coronavirus Measures
First of all, the majority of the coffeeshops have reopened. However, there are a few changes; some new, some that were already in place from the onset of the pandemic. As far as coffeeshops are concerned, you’ll see a range of safety and hygiene measures that have become the new normal around town.
Safe & Hygienic Coffeeshop Visits
Until further notice, coffeeshops work on a takeaway-only basis. That could mean queueing up outside, because only limited numbers of customers are allowed in at once. If you plan to visit a coffeeshop in town, try to avoid the rush hours in the late afternoons and around dinner time.
Cash payments are still possible, but paying by bank card is preferred. Protective screens and gloves are in place to minimize physical contact with staff. The general 1.5-metre distance measure is enforced in and around all coffeeshops, so please keep your distance. For a more detailed overview of all coffeeshop corona measures, check out this earlier post. Always follow staff directions to ensure safe and responsible cannabis sale and consumption!
Ban On Sale Of Alcohol In Red Light District Shops
During the weekend, there is a ban on the sale of alcohol by supermarkets and liquor stores in the Red Light District. The ban applies to the Red Light District area from Thursday 4pm until Sunday after midnight. The measure lasts until 1 November. The sale of alcohol is permitted in cafés and restaurants.
Street Artists Face Temporary Performance Ban
Street artists and street musicians are temporarily banned from performing. The ban applies to all street performances and is valid until 31 October 2020.
CCTV Surveillance
CCTV may be installed in areas facing persistent overcrowding. If necessary, additional measures can follow.
Enforcement
The Amsterdam police force and enforcement officers issue fines if the rules are not observed. If you don’t keep the safe distance of 1.5 metres, you could face a heavy fine of € 390.
Keep Your Distance
Keep a distance of 1.5 metres, which comes down to roughly six feet or two arm’s lengths, from each other. Avoid groups of people and busy places.
Want More Info?
Interested in more info on the latest measures against the corona pandemic and how they will affect your trip to Amsterdam or its coffeeshops? A full list of changes and updates can be found on the website of the Dutch Government.