Starting from next year, coach tour buses — and any other coaches for that matter — will not be allowed to enter the city centre of Amsterdam.
The municipality of Amsterdam feels like there is no longer enough space for coach buses to explore the city, and has decided to react to the residents’ complaints.
From January 2024, buses heavier than 7.5 tons will have to stop at the outskirts of the city. From there, tourists can take public transport, or a bike, if they’re keen on the real Dutch experience. 🚲
There will be some exceptions
In the Weesperstraat-Valkenburgerstraat-Kattenburgerstraat area, however, it will still be possible to hop on a coach tour bus.
In this circle, visitors will have a chance to see museums like Nemo, the Jewish Historical Museum, and the Hermitage, RTL Nieuws reports.
READ MORE | The municipality of Amsterdam pushes for a bike speed limit
According to Melanie van der Horst, traffic alderman of Amsterdam, tourists aren’t the only ones using these giant buses to explore the city.
“A lot of visitors come to Amsterdam every year with a coach. These are not only tourists, but also children on a school trip to Artis or the elderly who go to a museum, and we would like to offer space for that,” said Horst to RTL Nieuws.
Protecting the city
Annoyed residents weren’t the only reason for the new rule, as the heavy vehicles can easily damage the roads, bridges, and quays of the historical city centre.
These buses can also cause congestion in the narrow streets, and make roads more dangerous for cyclists and pedestrians.
What do you think of the new rule? Tell us in the comments below!