Coffeeshops and cannabis use
Amsterdam is often associated with its lenient approach to cannabis consumption and the existence of "coffeeshops", where marijuana can be legally purchased and consumed in small amounts. Learn more about cannabis and coffeeshop policies in Amsterdam.
Buying cannabis in Amsterdam
Regarding soft drugs such as cannabis, a tolerance policy ("gedoogbeleid") is applied in the Netherlands. This policy means that although the possession and buying of soft drugs are recognised as a violation of the law, you will not be prosecuted if it concerns a maximum amount of five grams of cannabis.
Tourists are allowed to buy weed in coffeeshops in Amsterdam. To enter, you must be 18 years of age – your ID will be checked. Only purchase from reputable coffeeshops (not street dealers) and start with a small amount if you are not experienced with cannabis. Never mix soft drug use with alcohol.
Rules and customs
Visitors should keep in mind that most venues other than coffeeshops do not allow soft drugs to be consumed on their premises. In other words, you can't smoke cannabis in most clubs or bars, even in smoking areas.
Despite the accessibility of weed in Amsterdam, not everyone is a smoker. Always consider the people around you.
Please note: From 1 June 2023, it's illegal for both visitors and Amsterdam residents to use soft drugs in the old city centre (Red Light District, Nieuwmarkt and Dam Square). Officers and enforcers can issue possible fines of €100.
Coffeeshops in Amsterdam
Even though you can (often) actually get coffee in a coffeeshop, the name is mainly a reference to the semi-secret drug trade in cafés in the 1970s. If you're more into drip-brew coffee, organic micro-roasters and glorious flat whites: read our write-up of quality blends in the city.
Find out more about the policy on coffeeshops and drug safety here.
