Many people come to Amsterdam assuming that cannabis is fully legal; but it’s actually a bit more nuanced.

So, is weed legal in the Netherlands?

Not exactly. Cannabis is decriminalized and tolerated under the Dutch policy of gedoogbeleid, meaning that while technically illegal, certain offenses are not prosecuted. This creates a legal grey area where cannabis can be sold and consumed under strict conditions.

You’re allowed to buy up to 5 grams per person per day at licensed coffeeshops. But behind the scenes, those same coffeeshops often operate in a legal loophole — while selling cannabis is tolerated, cultivating or transporting it in large quantities remains illegal.

Can tourists still buy weed in Amsterdam?

Yes. As of 2025, tourists are still welcome in Amsterdam’s coffeeshops; provided you’re 18 or older and carry a valid ID (passport, EU ID card, etc.).

Some Dutch cities like Maastricht or Breda require proof of Dutch residency to purchase cannabis, but Amsterdam continues to make exceptions for visitors, despite political discussions to change this.

Where can you smoke cannabis?

Cannabis consumption is allowed in coffeeshops and, in some cases, private residences (like an Airbnb, depending on the host’s rules). However, smoking in public isn’t as free as it once was.

Since February 2023, the city has implemented smoking bans in several popular areas, including:

• The Red Light District (De Wallen)

• Dam Square

• Damrak

• Nieuwmarkt

These areas fall under a public blowverbod (cannabis ban). Smoking weed here can result in a €100 fine. Always look for signage or check the city's official map before lighting up.

What about truffles and smartshops?

While cannabis exists in a legal grey zone, psychedelic truffles are fully legal in the Netherlands and sold in smartshops. These truffles contain psilocybin (the same active ingredient found in magic mushrooms) and are considered a "soft drug" under Dutch law.

That said, they’re not recommended for beginners. If cannabis feels overwhelming, truffles are likely not the right next step. But for those curious and experienced, they are a legal alternative. Just be sure to educate yourself before trying them.

Safety Tips for First-Time Cannabis Users

If it’s your first time trying cannabis in Amsterdam, a few basics can make the experience safer and more enjoyable:

• Start slow, especially with edibles, which can take over an hour to kick in and often feel stronger.

• Stay hydrated and have some food in your system.

• Avoid mixing with alcohol. It can intensify the effects in unpredictable ways.

• Choose a safe, comfortable environment where you can relax without pressure.

• Don’t bike while high. It’s unsafe and illegal, and you could be fined.

Final Thoughts

Amsterdam is not the free-for-all cannabis haven many imagine. The city is working to strike a balance between being welcoming to visitors and preserving quality of life for residents. Cannabis remains part of the city’s identity, but it's best approached with respect, moderation, and awareness of the rules.

So yes, enjoy the experience but do it the Dutch way: calm, considerate, and gezellig.