What is a Coffeeshop?
A coffeeshop in the Netherlands is a licensed establishment where cannabis can be legally purchased and consumed. Despite the name, they're not primarily about coffee (though most serve drinks).
Important: A "coffee shop" (two words) serves coffee. A "coffeeshop" (one word) sells cannabis. Don't confuse them!
2026 Rules for Tourists
- No smoking on terraces or outdoor areas
- No public consumption in Red Light District (€100-150 fine)
- Many areas now have "smoke-free zones"
- Police actively enforce rules near tourist areas
✅ What You CAN Do
- Buy up to 5 grams per person per visit
- Consume inside the coffeeshop
- Take purchases to your hotel (consume privately)
- Visit multiple coffeeshops (but 5g total possession limit)
❌ What You CANNOT Do
- Smoke in public (parks, streets, terraces)
- Buy more than 5 grams at a time
- Give/sell to others
- Take cannabis across borders (serious crime!)
- Consume near schools or playgrounds
Prices 2026
| Product | Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Weed (per gram) | €8-18 | Quality varies significantly |
| Hash (per gram) | €10-25 | Imported, usually Moroccan |
| Pre-rolled joint | €5-12 | Often mixed with tobacco |
| Space cake/brownie | €6-10 | Effects take 1-2 hours to feel |
Best Coffeeshops by Category
🏆 Best Selection
Boerejongens — Multiple locations. Professional, great menu, knowledgeable staff. Like the "Apple Store" of coffeeshops.
🎬 Most Famous
Dampkring — Featured in Ocean's Twelve. Unique interior, quality products. Touristy but worth a visit.
🇺🇸 American-Style
Grey Area — Tiny place run by Americans. Award-winning strains, very small but iconic.
📸 Most Instagrammable
The Bulldog — The original (since 1975). Multiple locations. Touristy, but an Amsterdam institution.
🏠 Local Vibe
Katsu — In De Pijp. Chill atmosphere, fair prices, minimal tourists. Ask locals, they'll confirm.
First-Timer Tips
- Start slow: Dutch weed is strong (20-30% THC). Half a joint is enough for most first-timers.
- Ask the staff: Tell them your experience level. They'll recommend appropriate strains.
- Indica vs Sativa: Indica = relaxing ("in-da-couch"). Sativa = energetic, creative.
- Edibles warning: Effects take 1-2 hours. Don't eat more thinking "it's not working."
- Drink water: Cottonmouth is real. Stay hydrated.
- Don't mix: Alcohol + cannabis = bad idea, especially for beginners.
Coffeeshop Etiquette
- Buy something if you're going to sit and smoke
- Don't bring outside cannabis into a coffeeshop
- Photography is usually prohibited or requires permission
- Be respectful of staff and other customers
- Clean up after yourself