Amsterdam Coffee Shops – Cannabis Experience for Beginners
Last Updated on 29/03/2025
Amsterdam Coffee Shops are hotspots for tourists looking to experience Dutch cannabis culture. You may be curious about the costs, effects, and whether using cannabis could lead to addiction or cause trouble. This article will share my personal experience, introducing different cannabis products, magic truffles, and important safety tips for beginners in Amsterdam.
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Important Notice：
This article is for personal experience sharing and does not encourage drug use. All drugs and medications carry risks and potential for addiction. Everyone’s body reacts differently, so please assess your own limits and control your dosage. Any accidents or harm resulting from cannabis use are not the responsibility of this website or myself. Please do not attempt to take cannabis products out of the country to avoid breaking the law.
Is Cannabis Legal in Amsterdam?
Cannabis is not legal in the Netherlands, but there is a so-called "tolerance policy" (gedoogbeleid), meaning the law is not enforced for the retail of small amounts of cannabis for personal use in designated "coffeeshops."
In simple terms: Cannabis is decriminalised in Amsterdam, but only for use within coffeeshops.
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Authorities still have clear regulations regarding cannabis use, such as:
- You can only purchase and consume cannabis within licensed Coffee Shops.
- You cannot carry more than 5 grams, as anything above this could be considered for sale.
- Smoking cannabis is usually prohibited in public places (such as parks and streets).
- It is illegal to take cannabis out of the country, and violating this may lead to breaking laws in other nations.
Coffee Shops vs. Cannabis Dispensaries
In Amsterdam, places selling recreational cannabis are called Coffee Shops, which are not your typical cafes. Unlike “cannabis dispensaries” in the US or Canada, these shops do not require a medical prescription, but they only sell specific types of cannabis products.
Can Tourists Buy Cannabis?
Currently, tourists can still buy cannabis in Amsterdam’s Coffee Shops, though there have been suggestions from politicians to ban tourist purchases. Future policies may change, so it’s best to check the latest regulations before your visit.
Types of Cannabis Products in Amsterdam
Cannabis products come in many varieties, including traditional cannabis joints, as well as:
- Space Cake (Cannabis Cake)
- Weed Brownies
- Cannabis Candy
- Cannabis Cookies
- Cannabis Vape
The effects of these products can vary depending on dosage and individual tolerance, especially with edibles, which often take hours to take effect, making dosage control crucial.
Cannabis products are generally divided by effect:
- “Happy”: Energising, may increase sociability
- “Relax”: Calming, helps relaxation or sleep
Magic Truffles
Magic Mushrooms are banned in the Netherlands, but the less potent Magic Truffles are still available for purchase in Smart Shops, typically priced between €10 and €25 (depending on strain and dosage).
Effects of Magic Truffles:
- May cause hallucinations, visual distortions, or emotional shifts
- If you must try it, it’s recommended to do so in a safe environment and with reliable friends accompanying you.
- Not suitable for solo use, as it can be risky
How Much Does Cannabis Cost at Amsterdam Coffee Shops?
Prices in Amsterdam Coffee Shops vary based on the type of cannabis, its quality, and the form of the product, but overall, they were much more affordable than I expected.
Typically, pre-rolled joints range from €5 to €15, depending on the strain and brand. For self-selected cannabis flowers, expect prices around €10 to €20 per gram. Higher quality or stronger strains may cost more.
In my experience, I bought a €10 pre-rolled joint at The Bulldog Coffee Shop, which was a good entry-level option for beginners, offering a nice introduction to cannabis.
Other products like space cakes, brownies, candies, and cookies cost between €5 and €12, while cannabis vape kits range from €20 to €50. Cannabis oil is priced at €10 to €30 per bottle.
Prices are subject to change based on dosage and the shop.
What Does It Feel Like to Use Cannabis? Will It Lead to Addiction or Trouble?
As someone who has never smoked, I was a bit unsure what to expect when I visited The Bulldog Coffee Shop in Amsterdam. After informing the staff that I was a beginner, I tried a low-dose cannabis joint (pre-rolled) along with a hot chocolate and iced chocolate.
- I personally didn’t feel any effects, staying 100% sober with no sense of excitement or relaxation.
- Not sure if this is relevant: I’ve never smoked, but I’m addicted to coffee and have had my fair share of alcohol experiences.
- My partner, however, started talking non-stop about half an hour after smoking, and his speech was logical (not like drunken rambling), just a lot more talkative.
- Not sure if this is relevant: he’s also never smoked, doesn’t drink coffee much, and has a low tolerance for alcohol (gets red from just one beer).
- Throughout the experience, neither of us felt dry mouth or discomfort.
- Honestly, I felt a bit “jealous” of my partner for having an experience, but I found it amusing to watch him talk nonstop. I also felt responsible for ensuring his safety, so I didn’t try a higher dosage.
In Amsterdam, cannabis products available to tourists are unlikely to cause loss of control like alcohol or illegal drugs, and most people don’t engage in violent or extreme behaviours.
Regarding addiction, cannabis can be addictive to some extent. However, based on my personal experience (this is not professional advice), neither my partner nor I felt any addictive tendencies. If you’re unsure about the effects or are concerned about safety, it’s best to start with a low dose and try it in a comfortable and safe environment.
How to Safely and Responsibly Experience Cannabis
Dosage Control:
- If it’s your first time, stick to a low dose.
- Edible cannabis (like cakes or cookies) may take 1-2 hours to take effect, so be patient and avoid overconsumption.
Where to Smoke:
- Coffee Shops are legal and safe places to use cannabis.
- Smoking in public spaces is usually prohibited, so always follow the rules.
Avoid Discomfort:
- Avoid mixing with alcohol, as it can amplify side effects.
- Make sure you have a trusted friend with you, and never use cannabis alone.
- If you feel overwhelmed, stay calm, rest, and drink plenty of water.
Recommended Amsterdam Coffee Shops
If you want to try cannabis, I recommend visiting the more tourist-friendly shops (I’m not too “authentic” when it comes to this, I’m not looking for gourmet food after all). Here are two popular Coffee Shops in the area:
The Bulldog
- One of the most famous Coffee Shops in Amsterdam, attracting plenty of tourists with a relaxed atmosphere.
- Prices are moderate.
- They offer a wide range of cannabis products, great for beginners.
Green House
- More upscale and attracts locals and experienced users.
- Prices are higher.
- They offer premium quality strains.
Reflecting on Dutch Open Culture
When I was younger, I wasn’t too much of a rebellious student, but I certainly had my rebellious moments. The more my parents, adults, or the government prohibited certain things, the more I wanted to try them.
When society lacks tolerance and understanding, we tend to see everything in black and white. However, most social issues are in the grey area, and simply banning something doesn’t solve the problem; it might even encourage people to push boundaries further. Instead of prohibitions, it’s better to have rational discussions and educate young people on the consequences of their choices.
Amsterdam’s policies on cannabis and the Red Light District advocate for openness and rationality, allowing everyone to choose their own way of life, as long as it doesn’t harm others. This approach might spark more thought and discussion, and for some, it could be seen as an expression of understanding and acceptance. Do you agree with this idea?
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