In this article, I present Amsterdam coffee shopsHere's an overview of the rules to follow and how these very special bars work!
Here you'll find
- Coffee shops in Amsterdam
- What you need to know to make the most of it
- Good addresses
- Practical information: prices, opening hours, reservations
- And much more!
If you're looking for information about coffee shops in Amsterdam, you'll love this article.
Follow the guide!
Coffee Shop Amsterdam: article summary
Coffee Shop Amsterdam: legal weed-smoking bars
Some visitors will associate Amsterdam with the city of Van Goghwith its pretty canals and superb museumsothers will see the city as a showcase for the prostitutes of the Quartier Rouge and Coffee shop !
The capital of the Netherlands is one of the world's largest the most permissive in the sale and consumption of cannabis, in various forms. And so Coffee shops were born, bars and cafés where you can eat grass.
A true paradise for enthusiasts Weed and HashishAmsterdam attracts many foreigners who come to take advantage of the local flexibility to smoke in peace and quiet in the city's best coffee shops.
Here's what you need to know about these special establishments, the rules in force in the country and the right behavior to adopt!
History of Amsterdam coffee shops
The in 1976 that the Netherlands has decided to authorize the licensed sale of cannabis in certain establishments. This policy is guided by a desire to separate soft drugs from hard drugs, to make it easier to combat the use of the latter.
Since then, the country as a whole, but especially its capital Amsterdam benefits from what we'll call "Cannabic Tourism". The coffee shops attract many visitors from neighbouring countries, creating tensions between the two. France and Germany on one side and The Netherlands on this thorny issue.
Faced with pressure from certain members of the European Union, in 2011 the Dutch government raised the possibility of banning foreigners from entering coffee shops. However, the project was put on holdThe cannabis trade remains very profitable.
In some cities, mayors have decided to enforce regulations on access to coffee shops in their towns. And they now have the right to close down establishments more easily.
In Amsterdam, the Coffee shop is still very broad, even if the number of outlets has fallen drastically over the past decade, from over 1,000 to around 150.
What can you find in a coffee shop?
Coffee shops resemble classic bars, with customers who come to relax, work and chat. in all simplicity. The only difference? Cannabis is sold here, and it's possible to smoke joints in the smoking areas.
Among the products offered in these establishments are :
- From weed heads of various varieties
- From hashish in pieces
- From pre-rolled seals (with tobacco)
- From brownies and other cannabis treats
- From beverages cannabis (tea, milkshakes, etc.)
- A selection of drinks and snacks, containing no cannabis or THC (the psychotropic molecule in cannabis), for those who just want to accompany their friends !
What's it like to visit a coffee shop in Amsterdam?
If during your visit Amsterdamyou'd like to try the coffeeshop experienceHere's what you need to know!
How do I get into a coffee shop in Amsterdam?
These establishments are forbidden to minors (under 18, sometimes under 21), and you'll be asked to show ID if there's any doubt about your age.
There's no way around these controls, because coffee shops risk a lot: if they lose their licenseAs part of the policy of limiting the number of these bars in the country, they will not be able to receive new ones!
What rules do you need to know?
In general, keep in mind that coffee shops are not allowed to advertiseAs a result, product menus are often at the counter. Of course, there are no hard drugs on sale.
Please also note that you cannot buy more than 5 grams every time.
Finally, alcohol consumption is prohibited in coffee shops and, more surprisingly, it is also no smoking ! This is part of a drive to protect employees from passive smoking: pure joints, yes, industrial cigarettes, no...!
Who frequents Amsterdam's coffee shops?
Depending on the establishment you choose, you'll come across locals as well, regularsWe've got a wide range of customers, from those who come to spend a moment with friends as we would in a traditional bar, to tourists who take advantage of their stay to discover our coffeeshops.
There is no not just smokers among customers, and Dutch consumers are often far removed from the image some people have of the weed and hash enthusiast.
Coffee Shop tips and recommendations
To enjoy these coffee shops in Amsterdam, here's how some recommendations that may be of use to you:
- Look for the designation coffeeshop (all attached) rather than coffee shops, because the latter offer...coffee!
- Cannabis cannot be purchased within these establishmentsdon't be tempted by street proposals: they're illegal and potentially dangerous
- Avoid smoking outsideCoffee shops are made for that!
- If you're not a connoisseur of weed or hashish, don't hesitate to ask the sales team for adviceYou'll find a product with the effects you're looking for!
- Know that prices varyDepending on the variety you choose, you can expect to pay between €5 and €15 per gram on average.
- Most coffeeshops do not accept credit card payments: plan for cash!
My top 3 coffee shops in Amsterdam
There's no shortage of coffeshop addresses in Amsterdam, but here are three tested and approved by discerning enthusiasts!
Boerejongens
At this chain of coffee shops, you'll enjoy a cosy atmosphereThe brand is supported by a team of experienced salespeople who know how to advise, and by high-quality products. There are 4 of the brand's outlets in the city, including one located right downtown, near the Rembrandt House.
More information on official website
The Bulldog Palace
A true institution, ultra-famousfor one of the city's oldest coffeeshops. Now very touristy, it's still a rather surprising place, with music and video games, a wide choice of products and lots of merchandising featuring the famous dog with his spiked collar!
Address: Leidseplein 15, 1017 PS Amsterdam
Paradox Coffeeshop
One address more intimatewith street art decoration and surprising varieties of herbs. Special mention for the space cake, very tasty.
The establishment is located just a few minutes from the Anne Franck House.
Address: Eerste Bloemdwarsstraat 2R, 1016 KS Amsterdam
If you'd like to extend the experience, you'll find a Cannabis Museum in the Red Light Districtif you'd like to find out more about this substance and its long history!
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