Aahh the famous Coffee Shop in Amsterdam! When visiting Amsterdam there are of course many places to discover. Like its architectural heritage , its museums , the change of scenery created by its gabled houses , its artistic richness . In short, there is plenty to do!
But the visit of the capital of the Netherlands , also implies, for many of us to discover the famous coffee shops of Amsterdam .
That’s why I decided to make you discover in this article what there is to know to smoke in Amsterdam . But also to offer you my selection of the best Amsterdam coffee shops .
1. Reminder of the rules for smoking in Amsterdam
Contrary to popular belief , drugs are prohibited in Amsterdam. And yes ! We are far from the French beliefs that think that everything is allowed in the Netherlands. The consumption of soft drugs such as cannabis is only tolerated, in defined places. But it is governed by very strict rules .
The purpose of this open-mindedness being to distinguish between small, often occasional consumers and the real big drug traffickers , whom the police are of course trying to eradicate.
The rules for smoking in Amsterdam are very specific:
- It is forbidden for a coffee shop in Amsterdam to serve cannabis and alcohol . They will have to choose between the two .
- The sale of cannabis is prohibited to anyone under the age of 18 . (age of majority in the Netherlands as in France and in a large part of the world).
- Even the best coffee shop in Amsterdam is forbidden to advertise , these places must remain discreet.
- Hard drugs such as cocaine or LCD etc. are strictly prohibited , coffee shops are therefore not allowed to offer them.
Cannabis can only be sold for personal consumption . It is therefore forbidden to sell more than 5g per person .
It is important to note that in the event of a license withdrawal for a coffee shop in Amsterdam, the municipality will not renew it, regardless of the conditions.
2. What kind of cannabis or weed can you smoke in Amsterdam
As with any consumer product, there are several varieties of cannabis of varying quality . Amsterdam’s coffee shops are thus supplied by local and international producers .
You will therefore be able to find a certain number of very different herbs such as: Indica, pollen, dark hashish, but also grass from Thailand, Africa, Jamaica. In short, a real potpourri of all that is done in this area.
3. Some things to know about cannabis in Amsterdam
The dosage of cannabis or hashish that you will find in the coffee shops of Amsterdam is not the one that you will find in France. So even if you have some experience in this area, it is strongly advised not to attempt the adventure alone .
Instead, consider having this experience with a group of friends . If you feel faint or dizzy, do not hesitate to contact the emergency services .
It is also strongly advised not to drive or control a motorized vehicle after consuming this type of product. Likewise for the sake of common sense if the consumption of cannabis and alcohol are not sold simultaneously in coffee shops, it is for a good reason ! So try to avoid mix-ups as much as possible .
Also be aware that while coffee shops in Amsterdam are popular with tourists , locals are not fond of these places. They prefer more traditional bars .
In the same way, smoking in Amsterdam in the street is quite badly perceived . If you are caught by the police in possession of more than 5 grams of cannabis you may be considered a trafficker and you may be fined .
4. The top 16 best coffee shops in Amsterdam
Among the coffee shops in Amsterdam, some are particularly recommended :
Amnesia, the most famous Amsterdam Coffee Shop
Rather famous in the capital . On busy days (usually weekends), you will need to be patient in order to find a seat.
This place located Herengracht 133 also offers a well-stocked menu in terms of cannabis and hashish. You will be able to taste a large number of local and imported varieties from the United States , several of which have received awards!
This establishment with its subdued and relaxing decor also offers a restaurant menu in case you get a bit peckish. Fries, snacks, cakes and pastries of all kinds, you won’t go hungry! Notice to amateurs, they say that Amnesia makes the best milkshakes in town.
Popularity obliges, the prices practiced there are on average higher than elsewhere; on the other hand, the quality is there ! The +: their pleasant terrace overlooking the canal, perfect for smoking a joint while watching the boats.
Amnesia coffee shop address : Herengracht 133, 1015 BG Amsterdam
GREY AREA
It is rumored that despite the high prices , this coffee shop offers the best quality cannabis in the capital. Without adhering to or contradicting this legend, it is obviously a high place in terms of coffee shop . During its 25 years of existence, it has in any case won numerous prizes and local competitions!
This place is best known for hosting the famous rapper Snoop Doggy Dog during his visits to the capital. Funny detail given its global reputation, the Gray Area is absolutely tiny: it is one of the smallest coffee shops in Amsterdam !
As for its decoration, it is to say the least… creative. Its walls are indeed entirely covered with stickers and rolling papers , deposited there by the visitors themselves. An emblematic establishment for connoisseurs, but perhaps less interesting for novices.
Adresse du Gray Area Coffeeshop : Oude Leliestraat 2, 1015 AW Amsterdam
Abraxas
Located in the city center , this coffee shop declines the famous herbs according to everyone’s tastes. Whether smoking or ingesting. Open from 10 a.m. to 1 a.m., it is in a warm atmosphere and an astonishing decor that it welcomes you.
In a mixture of wood, colorful poufs and mosaic frescoes, this place looks like an enchanted forest ! It also offers a fairly varied menu of herbs and hashes, as well as a selection of some brownies and cookies.
Despite its location tucked away in a narrow lane, it is relatively spacious inside and has one floor. In addition to smoking, it offers a range of ancillary services such as a WIFI area and games upstairs .
Adresse Abraxas coffee shop : Jonge Roelensteeg 12-14, 1012 PL Amsterdam
The Bulldog Palace, one of the pioneers of Coffee Shop Amsterdam
Discover the pioneer of the genre , by going to this place, you will touch the first coffee shop of this kind . Having become a chain of coffee shops , the parent building (The First) is none other than a former sex shop.
It all started in 1974, when a group of friends got into the habit of meeting in the basement of the store to smoke a joint. By word of mouth, tourists began to flock there, and over time it became one of the most popular coffee shops in Amsterdam.
Today, it is a modern and comfortable place, equipped with a charming patio on the canal side. Be careful, this place is more intended for parties than for intimate moments. Among the 4 other establishments of the Bulldog Palace group, there is also a former police station , redecorated in the Caribbean spirit.
Adresse The Bulldog Palace coffee shop : Leidseplein 15, 1017 PS Amsterdam
Katsu
Located in the Pijp district , south of the historic center, the Katsu blends in perfectly with the bohemian-chic atmosphere that reigns in this area of Amsterdam. With its psychedelic storefront, you won’t be able to miss it!
This coffee shop has managed to bring locals and tourists together around an interesting menu, made up of around thirty varieties of herbs. The atmosphere is cool and relaxed , between rock and R&B in a very colorful setting, and the staff very friendly.
As for the prices, they are around €10 per gram , which is still very affordable. Something to relax between two visits! By the way, if you visit this coffee shop, take the opportunity to take a trip to the Albert Cuypmarkt market , the largest in the city, a few streets away.
Adresse Katsu Coffeeshop : Adresse : Eerste van der Helststraat 70, 1072 NZ Amsterdam
Other Side
I could not fail to introduce you to this one-of-a-kind coffee shop in the capital. Indeed, it is the only gay coffee shop in Amsterdam . A peculiarity that it is better to know before rushing into this temple of dance music.
On the Otherside, locals and tourists mingle to come and relax in this pleasant place, with a rather sober decoration compared to some of its colleagues. Here, there are no colorful colors or funky furniture, just a few tables where you can smoke a joint while listening to music.
It is located at 6 Reguliersdwarsstraat , a street known and appreciated for its many gay clubs, restaurants and trendy bars. Moreover, the Otherside has been there since the 80s, more than 30 years of existence for this Amsterdam coffee shop!
Adresse The Otherside Coffeeshop : Reguliersdwarsstraat 6, 1017 BM Amsterdam
The Dampcircle
This coffee shop which has an excellent reputation and which is located at 29 Handboogstraat attracts many tourists within its walls. Recently renamed the Coffee shop Amsterdam (original isn’t it), this place definitely stands out among the local scene.
But not only because he is the winner of the “ Hightimes Cannabis Cups ”. Which is none other than a contest launched by an American magazine rewarding the best varieties of cannabis. He is also known for hosting the movie Ocean’s Twelve .
This establishment has decided to play the card of high standing and offers its customers a service with small onions. Built on three floors, it immediately catches the eye with its imposing carved wooden facade . Inside, you relax in a mystical decor, with Arabic and Buddhist inspirations.
On the menu, novice and experienced smokers can choose from an incredibly rich selection of herbs. A real institution in Amsterdam !
Adresse Dampkring Coffeeshop : Handboogstraat 29, 1012 XM Amsterdam
Paradox, Coffee Shop Amsterdam Arty et Moderne
This coffee shop plays a very different card from many others . Known to residents and tourists, it is more of a place where life is good than a front box. It even has a kitchen open from 10am to 3pm . It is pleasant to discuss, exchange, relax to the sound of pleasant music .
It is located in the Jordaan, a quaint and trendy neighborhood in the eastern part of Amsterdam. With its arty and bohemian atmosphere , it’s the ideal place to take a short break and take a breather between two visits. You immediately feel at ease!
You can drink a famous dutch coffee (a typical Dutch method), change the world with friends and even play board games. A real cocoon , the exact opposite of the crowded and noisy coffee shops that abound in Amsterdam.
In short, an address to note if you are looking for a calm and authentic atmosphere !
Adresse Paradox Coffeeshop : Eerste Bloemdwarsstraat 2R, 1016 KS Amsterdam
Yo-Yo, one of the cheapest Amsterdam Coffee Shops
Slightly away from the city center , this coffee shop stands out as one of the cheapest in the capital . Frequented mainly by a regular clientele , this place welcomes both artists who wish to exhibit and live bands , mainly on Sundays.
Half coffee shop, half gallery , the Yo-Yo is indeed a special place in the Venice of the North. You can admire many works by local artists and even take part in art classes . To get there, you will have to venture into the south of Amsterdam, in the Oude Pijp district (which means “old pipe”).
Other than that, you’ll love its contemporary and bright decor, made of wooden floors, plants and soft sofas. As a bonus, a small outdoor patio allows you to sit in the sun when the temperatures are mild. A dozen options make up the menu, each between 5 and 10€ .
Address Galerie CoffeeShop YoYo : Tweede Jan van der Heijdenstraat 79, 1074 XS Amsterdam
Les coffee shops Boerejongens
The coffee shops Boerejongens (“the farmers”) are 4 branches in Amsterdam , including one in the heart of the city center, rue Utrechtsestraat.
Everything in these establishments exudes chic and luxury . The staff are in white shirts and bow ties, and the interiors are carefully furnished. Beautiful wooden furniture, imposing leather armchairs and marble floors for some… The message that this chain wants to convey is clear: here, we are in the top of the range .
Moreover, it is above all the excellent quality of its products that has made the notoriety of this coffee shop. Indicas, sativas, hashish, edibles… All the best varieties are represented. You can see right away that the staff knows all about it and will be able to advise you if necessary.
Note that Boerejongens is more of a dispensary than a coffee shop, although there are a few tables where you can sit down.
Adresse Boerejongens Coffeeshop : Utrechtsestraat 21, 1017 VH Amsterdam
Old Amsterdam (appears currently closed)
We go to the south of the old town with the Old Amsterdam coffee shop , which is a stone’s throw from Rembrandt Square. Despite its small size and its facade which does not look like much, it is a very pleasant place.
Its clientele consists mostly of locals, but also a few tourists who pass by. It has a relaxed and calming atmosphere , due in part to its warm lighting and artistic decoration.
The menu of Old Amsterdam has nothing to envy to that of its competitors. The choice is indeed abundant, varied and of high quality . You will find powerful varieties, such as Chocolope Gold, Silver Haze or Amnesia, and pre-rolled joints.
Adresse Old Amsterdam Coffeeshop : Amstelstraat 35, 1017 DA Amsterdam
Green House Centrum
Green House Centrum is one of the 5 addresses of the Green House group, along with De Pijp, Namaste, United and Strain Hunter’s. This chain of coffee shops was founded by the Green House Seed Company, one of the major players in the cannabis industry on a global scale.
Due to its strategic location , on the edge of the famous Red Light District, this place is often very busy. Inside, cozy benches and carved wooden furniture give it a modern and cocooning feel .
The selection of products is up to the expectations that one could have of such an establishment. Namely that because of its worldwide fame, it is not uncommon to come across a celebrity there from time to time. So keep an eye out if you visit this coffee shop in Amsterdam!
Adresse Green House Center Coffeeshop : Oudezijds Voorburgwal 191, 1012 EW Amsterdam
1st Aid
Run by two friends who decided to set up their coffee shop together, 1e Hulp has a very good reputation in Amsterdam. If you like very subdued, almost spiritual atmospheres, then this place is for you!
Red-orange lights, low benches and patterned poufs, it tastefully mixes Arabic and Oriental influences . Between two joints, you can also sip typical Moroccan tea. The prices there are very reasonable given its central position, rue Marnixstraat on the edge of the Jordaan district.
Their flagship product? The moonrock , literally moonstone: it is a cannabis head covered with hashish oil, then rolled in kief (a kind of pollen, very rich in CBD). In short, a very VERY powerful preparation, reserved for experienced consumers.
Adresse 1eHulp Coffeeshop : Marnixstraat 194, 1016 SZ Amsterdam
House of Representatives
Located in a busy area (Heisteeg Street), Tweede Kamer is one of the oldest coffee shops in Amsterdam . Its inauguration dates back to 1985, almost 40 years ago! This establishment is now an integral part of the history of the city.
The vintage side of Tweede Kamer shines through in its rather old school decor , but nevertheless cozy and elegant. The vintage colors, old paintings and period objects that populate the café give it a deliciously old-fashioned charm.
Visitors generally praise the benevolence and quality of service , which greatly contributes to its popularity. Regarding the menu, there are various options of cannabis and hashish, as well as hot and non-alcoholic drinks.
Note that the place is quite small , so it is not always easy to find a seat there.
Adresse Tweede Kamer Coffeeshop : Heisteeg 6, 1012 WC Amsterdam
Barney’s Coffee Shop Amsterdam
In Amsterdam, the reputation of Barney’s Coffee shop , rue Haarlemmerstraat, is second to none. Founded by the famous Barney’s Farm, a seed bank renowned throughout the world, it is a very respected establishment in the industry.
The high quality of its products has earned it many awards over the years. In particular, he was one of the winners of the famous High Times Cup , an important competition on the cannabis scene.
Apart from its menu, one of the striking elements of this coffee shop is its futuristic decor , mixing old and new. It was set up in the shop of a former pharmacy, itself located in a building dating from the 16th century .
Namely that Barney’s also has a bar and a restaurant in the same street, as well as a second coffee shop, Barney’s Lounge, rue Reguliersgracht.
Address Barney’s Coffeeshop Amsterdam : Haarlemmerstraat 102, 1013 EW Amsterdam
Kadinsky
Kadinsky refers to a chain of 3 coffee shops, all three located in the city center of Amsterdam. Among its customers, there is an eclectic mix of curious tourists and local residents who come to accompany their joint with a tasty coffee.
If it is not the oldest in Amsterdam, the first address in Rosmarijnsteeg dates from 1986 ! The second branch followed closely, in 1987, and the third was inaugurated in 1992. Since then, the 3 establishments have undergone major renovations .
And indeed, in terms of atmosphere, we are quite far from the other addresses in this selection: large bay windows, high ceilings, metal counters and cold colors. If this industrial style will not please everyone, there is something for everyone!
Art lovers will also recognize reproductions of works by major artists such as Andy Warhol and Herman Brood on the walls.
