Amsterdam Coffeeshops

In Amsterdam, a “coffeeshop” is a licensed café that sells cannabis — not to be confused with a “koffiehuis” or ordinary café. Buying and using small amounts is tolerated under strict conditions, and a first visit is low-key once you know how it works. For the full legal detail, see our coffeeshop rules guide.

The basics

• You must be 18+ and may be asked for ID.

• You can buy up to 5 grams a day.

• No alcohol is sold or allowed.

• Hard drugs are illegal and never sold in coffeeshops.

• Menus list cannabis flower, hash, pre-rolls and edibles; pay by card or cash.

Inside a coffeeshop

The staff (the “budtender”) will talk you through the menu — just ask, they're used to beginners. Strength varies a lot, so go gently, especially with edibles, which can take an hour or more to take effect. Because of the tobacco smoking ban, you'll often see vaporisers and tobacco-free herbal mixes.

Where you can use it

Use cannabis inside the coffeeshop or in private. Smoking in the street is restricted across the centre and banned outright in the Red Light District, Dam and Damrak (around €100 fine). Never around children, and not in most hotels.

Staying comfortable

Start low and wait; keep water and a snack handy; don't mix with alcohol. If you overdo it, the classic fix is something sugary and a sit-down — it passes. And never buy from a street dealer: it's illegal, usually fake and sometimes dangerous.