When you walk in Amsterdam, you can’t miss them: the iconic Dutch coffee shops. As a city steeped in history and culture, Amsterdam also boasts a unique cannabis scene that attracts many visitors from all around the world each year. On this page, we will delve into the world of Amsterdam’s coffeeshops, providing essential information on the regulations, the history of the coffeeshop culture, and other aspects related to cannabis consumption in Amsterdam so you will have all the information you need to responsibly and respectfully enjoy the coffee shop experience during your visit to Amsterdam. Don’t feel obligated to smoke a joint in Amsterdam if you are visiting Amsterdam. It might not seem like that, but only 7,8% (2022) of Dutch people has smoked weed in the past year.
Smoking
Cannabis in Amsterdam
A Comprehensive Guide on Smoking Marijuana in Amsterdam
Discover how to smoke cannabis safely in Amsterdam, how the coffeeshops in Amsterdam are like, what to expect and what the current rules are in Amsterdam.
The coffeeshops in Amsterdam
When it comes to smoking weed in the city, tourists and locals alike have a range of options. These coffeeshops aren’t your typical “coffee” places though; The coffee shops in Amsterdam offer you more than just a cup of coffee.
The coffee shop Amsterdam culture has cultivated a global reputation, drawing countless visitors every year. Each coffee shop in Amsterdam has its distinct atmosphere and special cannabis strains, ensuring a unique experience every time. From the top coffee shops in Amsterdam to the lesser-known local favourites, there’s a spot for everyone seeking a unique blend of coffee and cannabis.
Historically, Amsterdam coffee shops have been an open community, welcoming everyone from all walks of life. Amsterdam, Netherlands’ coffee shops remain a testament to the city’s progressive stance on marijuana use in the world.
Amsterdam Cannabis Regulations
While cannabis is technically not legal in the Netherlands, the country’s “tolerance policy” means that possession of up to five grams for personal use is decriminalized. This policy enables coffeeshops to sell cannabis products to customers over the age of 18. Keep in mind that smoking cannabis in public is not encouraged, and many hotels have strict non-smoking policies. Stick to designated coffeeshops or private accommodations when enjoying your cannabis experience.
Where to Buy Cannabis in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is home to over 150 coffeeshops where you can purchase a variety of cannabis products, including flower, hash, pre-rolled joints, and edibles. Each coffeeshop has its unique atmosphere and product offerings. Some of the most famous spots include The Bulldog, Green House, Grey Area, and Barney’s. When making a purchase, remember that it’s illegal to buy more than five grams of cannabis per person, per day (per transaction).
Top 10 Facts About Cannabis and Smoking Weed in Amsterdam you might don’t know:
- The First Coffeeshop: The first-ever coffeeshop in Amsterdam, Mellow Yellow, opened its doors in 1972. The name was inspired by the Donovan song “Mellow Yellow,” which was rumored to be about smoking banana peels (though Donovan later denied this). The shop had to shut its doors in early 2017 due to new regulations mandating the closure of 28 coffeeshops in Amsterdam that were situated within 250 meters of educational institutions. The Bulldog Coffeeshop then became the oldest coffeeshop.
- Cannabis Cup: Amsterdam has hosted the prestigious Cannabis Cup, an annual cannabis competition and trade show, since 1988.
- Weed Pass: In 2012, the Dutch government introduced the “weed pass” to prevent tourists from buying cannabis. However, Amsterdam rejected the policy to maintain its tourism industry.
- Cannabis-Infused Food: Amsterdam offers various cannabis-infused food options, including brownies, cakes, cookies, and even ice cream.
- Weed-Smelling Police Dogs: Some police dogs in Amsterdam are trained to detect the smell of cannabis, ensuring the city’s regulations are upheld. You often can see these dogs at Schiphol Airport, the airport of Amsterdam.
- Cannabis Education: The Hash, Marijuana & Hemp Museum in Amsterdam provides visitors with an educational experience about the history and culture of cannabis.
- Coffeeshop Rules: Amsterdam’s coffeeshops are not allowed to sell alcohol or admit anyone under the age of 18. Additionally, advertising cannabis products is prohibited. Read here: All the rules related to smoking weed in Amsterdam
- Coffeeshop Menus: Many coffeeshops offer “menus” with detailed descriptions of their cannabis products, including THC and CBD levels.
- Unique Coffeeshop Experiences: Some coffeeshops in Amsterdam offer more than just cannabis, featuring unique images on the wall, drinks, nice atmosphere and more.
- Cannabis plants: Industrial Hemp (to make ropes) and cannabis both come from the Cannabis sativa plant species, but they have distinct differences in their chemical composition, uses, and cultivation. Cannabis is known for its high levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound responsible for the “high” associated with its consumption. Hemp, on the other hand, contains only trace amounts of THC (typically less than 0.3%) but has higher concentrations of cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound with various potential health benefits.
Read here: Amsterdam Coffeeshops 🌿 A Must-Read Guide for Smoking Cannabis in Amsterdam
Do you need a weed pass in Amsterdam as a tourist?
As a tourist visiting Amsterdam, you may be wondering whether you’ll need a weed pass to purchase cannabis at one of the city’s renowned coffeeshops. The good news is that you do not need a weed pass in Amsterdam to buy cannabis as a tourist.
While the Dutch government introduced the weed pass in 2013 as a measure to restrict cannabis sales to residents of the Netherlands, Amsterdam chose not to implement this policy in order to maintain its tourism industry.
As a result, tourists aged 18 and over are free to enjoy the unique coffeeshop culture that Amsterdam has to offer. However, it’s important to note that cannabis consumption should be limited to designated coffeeshops and private accommodations, as smoking in public places is discouraged in Amsterdam. Please do mind that Cannabis is still a soft drug and it has been shown by research to cause negative long term effects on a person’s health.
Can tourist buy from coffeeshops in Amsterdam?
Things related to smoking Cannabis in Amsterdam you might be curious about it:
What happens in coffeeshops in Amsterdam?
Visitors can choose from diverse strains and potencies, with knowledgeable staff often available to provide guidance and recommendations.
In addition to cannabis consumption, coffeeshops in Amsterdam often serve non-alcoholic beverages (they have coffee too) and snacks, and many feature comfortable seating, music creating an inviting and communal environment.
Why are they called coffeeshops in Amsterdam?
The name is believed to have originated in the 1970s as a way to discreetly advertise the sale of cannabis to potential customers while avoiding unwanted attention from authorities.
This naming convention has since been adopted by other cities in the Netherlands and become synonymous with the unique cannabis culture that has flourished in the region.
Are coffee shops still legal in Amsterdam?
Despite occasional discussions about tightening regulations or restricting tourist access, coffeeshops are still allowed to sell weed. At the moment of writing (May 2023), smoking cannabis in coffeeshops is still possible for tourists visiting Amsterdam.
What is the rule on drugs in Amsterdam?
The possession of small amounts of cannabis (up to five grams) for personal use is decriminalized, and only coffeeshops are allowed to sell cannabis within the established guidelines.
However, the production, distribution, and sale of both soft and hard drugs remain illegal, and those found in possession of such substances can face severe penalties.
How much does a joint cost in Amsterdam coffee shop?
Can you walk around and smoke in Amsterdam?
Some areas, particularly around schools and playgrounds, have strict no-smoking policies in place. It’s essential to be mindful of your surroundings and adhere to local rules and customs when enjoying cannabis in Amsterdam. Also please keep in mind that it is not polite and often not allowed to smoke cannabis in a restaurant or the outdoor part of a restaurant in Amsterdam.
Can you bring joints home from Amsterdam?
Travelers are strongly advised against attempting to transport any cannabis products across international borders. Instead, enjoy the unique cannabis culture that Amsterdam has to offer while in the city and respect local laws and regulations by leaving any remaining products behind when you depart
Used Sources: Trimbos, Government.nl(soft drugs), Government.nl (criminal offenses)