Is Weed Legal in Amsterdam? Coffeeshop Rules & New Smoking Bans Explained

Amsterdam’s relationship with cannabis is a global marvel, drawing millions of curious visitors each year. But the reality is far more nuanced than the “anything goes” myth. The city operates under a unique gedoogbeleid (tolerance policy), not full legalization. For the modern traveler, understanding the 2026 rules, from the famous coffeeshops to the new public smoking bans, is essential for a safe and compliant experience. Before you go, explore Herb’s strain guides to understand the different types of cannabis you might encounter, from relaxing indicas to energizing sativas.

• Cannabis is NOT legal in Amsterdam, but possession of small amounts (up to 5 grams) and coffeeshop sales are tolerated under a strict non-prosecution policy for adults 18+. Police may still confiscate cannabis, even if prosecution is unlikely.
• Tourists can still buy cannabis in Amsterdam under the tolerance policy; no Dutch residency requirement is currently enforced, unlike in other Dutch cities.
• The 5-gram limit is the tolerated threshold: the maximum you can purchase in a single transaction and the maximum you should carry at any time. Amounts within this limit are typically confiscated but not prosecuted.
• A public cannabis smoking ban is in full effect in the Red Light District, Dam Square, Damrak, and Nieuwmarkt, with a €100 fine for violations.
• Coffeeshops are your only tolerated retail channel; buying from street dealers is illegal and prosecuted.
• You cannot take recreational cannabis out of the Netherlands; attempting to do so at Schiphol Airport or any border is a serious offense. Travelers with prescribed medicinal cannabis must carry the required certificates.
• Amsterdam is not part of the national cannabis experiment; it maintains its traditional tolerance model while other cities test a regulated supply chain.

The cornerstone of Amsterdam’s cannabis culture is its official policy of gedoogbeleid, or tolerance. This is not legalization, but a pragmatic approach to decriminalization. Under the Dutch Opium Act, cannabis is a criminal offense to possess, produce, or deal. However, the government has adopted a non-prosecution policy for the possession of small amounts (up to 5 grams) and for sales within licensed coffeeshops that meet strict conditions.

This policy creates a unique legal gray zone that is often misunderstood. For tourists, it means you can walk into a coffeeshop, show your ID, and purchase cannabis under the tolerance policy, though this is technically still not the same as full legality. But the moment you step outside the confines of this regulated system, the legal protections evaporate. This distinction is critical for responsible tourism. The system is designed for personal, on-site consumption within a controlled environment. If you want to learn more about cannabis before your trip, Herb’s education hub is a great place to start.

The policy functions on two main pillars: the separation of the market for “soft drugs” (like cannabis) from “hard drugs” (like cocaine or heroin), and the strict regulation of coffeeshops. The government’s goal is to reduce the harms associated with drug use and to prevent a black market for cannabis from funding more serious criminal enterprises. This is why coffeeshops are subject to rigid rules, and why the public smoking ban was introduced to manage the “public nuisance” caused by cannabis tourism in the city’s most iconic areas.

Amsterdam’s coffeeshops are not just places to buy cannabis; they are highly regulated businesses that operate under municipal permits. To maintain their license, they must comply with the national toleration criteria (commonly referred to as the AHOJ-G conditions) as well as Amsterdam’s additional permit rules. Understanding these rules is key to being a respectful and informed visitor.

The rules are straightforward for tourists in Amsterdam:

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
• ID: You must present a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a passport or an EU ID card. Bring a passport or national ID card to avoid issues; acceptance of driver’s licenses can vary by coffeeshop.
• Residency: A national residence criterion (I-criterion) exists in the Netherlands, but enforcement is municipal. Amsterdam has generally not enforced a residents-only rule, unlike some border municipalities such as Maastricht or Breda, which apply the residence criterion to restrict purchases to local residents.

The tolerance policy is clear on this point:

• The limit is 5 grams per person. This is both the maximum you can purchase in a single transaction and the tolerated threshold for personal possession. If police find you carrying up to 5 grams, confiscation is typical, but prosecution usually does not follow.
• Coffeeshops themselves are limited to a 500-gram inventory on their premises at any time.

This limit is designed to discourage large-scale resale and to keep the focus on personal, recreational use. If you’re new to cannabis, this is more than enough for a multi-day visit. Keep in mind that Dutch cannabis can be quite potent: while average THC levels for popular Dutch-grown strains (“nederwiet”) sit around the mid-teens percentage-wise according to Trimbos Institute monitoring data, some strains and products can test higher. Checking Herb’s guide to the strongest strains can help you understand what to expect.

In an effort to curb the negative side effects of overtourism, the city of Amsterdam implemented a significant public cannabis smoking ban, known as the blowverbod. The ban was announced in February 2023 and went into effect on May 25, 2023. This ban remains strictly enforced in 2026 and is a major consideration for any visitor.

The ban prohibits smoking cannabis in four of the city’s most congested tourist zones:

• The entire Red Light District (De Wallen)
• Dam Square and its surrounding streets
• The main shopping street, Damrak
• Nieuwmarkt square and its immediate vicinity

Signage is posted throughout these areas to remind visitors of the rule. The rationale is to reduce loitering, litter, and the general sense of chaos that can overwhelm these historic neighborhoods.

The ban is already in full effect as of 2026. If you are caught smoking cannabis in a prohibited zone, you can expect to be fined €100. While early enforcement included warnings, enforcement has become increasingly strict. Check the City of Amsterdam’s restricted-area map for the most current boundaries.

Your safest option is inside a licensed coffeeshop. Most have comfortable lounges where on-site consumption is not just allowed but encouraged. You can also consume in private spaces like your hotel room or an Airbnb, but you must check the property’s specific policy first. Outside of the designated restricted areas, smoking discreetly in parks or along canal sides is not explicitly prohibited by the blowverbod, but municipal bylaws and enforcement can vary by location, so exercise caution and always check the city’s restricted-area map.

For the first-time visitor, a visit to an Amsterdam coffeeshop can be an exciting but slightly daunting experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate it like a pro. For more in-depth tips on cannabis etiquette and consumption, check out Herb’s extensive library of how-to guides.

Upon entering, you’ll be asked for your ID. Once verified, you can take a seat or approach the counter to look at the menu. Menus are typically displayed on a board or a digital screen and will list the available strains of flower, pre-rolled joints, edibles (like “space cakes”), and sometimes hash. Some coffeeshops list estimated THC and CBD percentages on their menus, though accuracy and standardization are not guaranteed, so treat these figures as approximate rather than lab-verified. Understanding how terpenes affect your high can also help you choose the right product.

1. Show your ID. No exceptions.
2. Ask for help. The staff (often called budtenders) are knowledgeable. If you’re unsure, ask for a recommendation based on the effect you’re looking for (e.g., relaxation, creativity, or a social high).
3. Place your order. Specify the amount (up to 5 grams) and the product. The budtender will weigh it out for you.
4. Pay. Cash is king in Amsterdam’s coffeeshops. While some accept cards, many are cash-only, and international credit cards can be problematic. Always have cash on hand.
5. Consume. You can smoke it on the premises, or take it with you to consume in a permitted location. If you need rolling papers or a pipe, they will be available for purchase.

While the classic cannabis flower is the main attraction, Amsterdam’s coffeeshops offer a diverse range of products. Understanding what’s available can help you make a more informed choice.

• Flower: The dried buds of the cannabis plant, available in a wide variety of strains. Approximate prices in 2026 range from around €8.50–€10 per gram for budget options to €25–€35 per gram for high-end imported (“Cali”) strains. Prices vary significantly by shop and neighborhood.
• Pre-rolled Joints: A convenient, ready-to-smoke option, typically costing approximately €4–€12.
• Hash: A concentrated form of cannabis made from the resin of the plant, priced at roughly €10–€20+ per gram.
• Edibles: Known locally as “space cakes,” these are cannabis-infused brownies, cookies, or other baked goods, usually priced around €8–€20. Herb’s edible recipes can also give you a sense of how infused treats are made.
• Vapes & Accessories: Some shops also sell vaporizers and other smoking accessories.

Note: These price ranges are approximate and based on menu snapshots; actual prices vary by coffeeshop, product quality, and season.To get a sense of the broader cannabis product landscape, browse Herb’s products catalog, which features a wide array of items from trusted brands.

The potency of Dutch cannabis can be a surprise to the uninitiated. Responsible consumption is not just a matter of policy; it’s a safety one.

A sativa-dominant strain like Purple Haze is known for its uplifting, cerebral, and creative effects, while an indica-dominant strain like The White typically delivers a more relaxing, body-focused high. Hybrids offer a blend of both. If you’re a novice, start low and go slow. A small amount is all you need.

If you overconsume and feel anxious or unwell, stay calm. Find a quiet place to sit down, drink some water or a sugary beverage like orange juice, and remember that the feeling will pass. Most coffeeshop staff are experienced in helping customers in this situation. In a true emergency, dial 112 for medical services.

Herb’s strain guides are an excellent educational resource to help you understand the potential effects of different cannabis varieties before you go, ensuring a more enjoyable and confident experience.

While Amsterdam maintains its traditional model, the rest of the Netherlands is experimenting with a more structured approach. A national “cannabis experiment” is underway in 10 other municipalities, where a regulated, government-licensed supply chain from grower to coffeeshop is being tested. This aims to solve the long-standing “backdoor problem,” where coffeeshops can sell cannabis under the tolerance policy but must source it from an illegal, unregulated market.

Amsterdam is not part of this experiment. The city’s leadership has chosen to stick with its proven tolerance policy for now. The experimental phase began on April 7, 2025, and is set to last four years, with ongoing monitoring throughout. The results of this national experiment could influence future policy debates in the capital. For the latest updates on these global cannabis policy shifts, stay informed through Herb’s cannabis news section and subscribe to the Herb Insider newsletter.

Amsterdam’s cannabis scene is a fascinating blend of pragmatism, regulation, and culture. It’s a system built on tolerance, not legalization, and it demands a certain level of respect and responsibility from its visitors. By understanding the rules, especially the 5-gram tolerated threshold and the public smoking ban, and by consuming thoughtfully, you can have a safe and memorable experience. Remember, the goal is to explore the culture, not just the product. For more on the global cannabis landscape and to stay informed on the latest trends, keep Herb as your trusted guide.