As an international in the Netherlands, there’s always been one challenge that faces me: Finding the best coffeeshops in Amsterdam.
The cremè de la cremè of cannabis, the gauntlet of ganja, the princesses of pot, and the maestros of Mary Jane.
So where should you smoke weed in Amsterdam? Here are 17 of Amsterdam’s best coffeeshops where I’d recommend getting high.
TIP: Not sure how to look like a pro on your first trip? Check out our full guide to smoking weed in Amsterdam, or our guide on visiting an Amsterdam coffeeshop for the first time. Smoke responsibly! 😉
- 1. Coffeeshop Sloterdijk: the coffeeshop that could be a 5-star hotel
- 2. Boerejongens West: the classiest interiors around
- 3. Coffeeshop Amsterdam (formerly known as Dampkring 2): for the ultimate vibes
- 4. De Tweede Kamer: a coffeeshop of the ages
- 5. Coffeeshop BIJ: the local’s choice
- 6. The Stud: full of funky ambience
- 7. Coffeeshop The Corner: best price/quality ratio
- 8. Coffeeshop Relax: Jordaan’s finest weed in a cosy setting
- 9. Katsu Coffeeshop & Gallerie: right next to the brewery
- 10. Coffeeshop DNA: first-grade weed at affordable prices
- 11. Coffeeshop Sensemillia Osdorp: lake views while you get lit
- 12. Easy Times Coffeeshop: great for the first-timers
- 13. Coffeeshop Pacific: for the dog lovers
- 14. Coffeeshop Papillion: a coffeeshop to be free
- 15. Coffeeshop Siberië: the hidden gem of Amsterdam coffeeshops
- 16. Coffeeshop Dolphins: getting high under the sea
- 17. La Tertulia: a new-age coffeeshop to ponder the world
- What to do after visiting some of the best coffeeshops in Amsterdam
- Best coffeeshops in Amsterdam: frequently asked questions
1. Coffeeshop Sloterdijk: the coffeeshop that could be a 5-star hotel
Forget the dark and dingy Amsterdam coffeeshops of yesteryear. Coffeeshop Sloterdijk is ultra-modern, filled with natural light, and luxuriously finished with marble countertops, wood, and gold. The modern white packaging for their products is just the cherry on top!
Not sure what to order? Geen probleem (no problem). A man with a bowler hat will greet you at the door, and “cannabis sommeliers” in white doctor’s coats will take the time to find you the right strain for your day.
Even the security guards out front will give you a smile — and that’s rare in Amsterdam. 😉
Of course, if you’re feeling like you need a spacecake to get you going, that can also be done: I’d recommend that you choose from the array of red velvet cakes, brownies, or special holiday-themed sweet treats.
While this coffeeshop is away from the hustle and bustle of the centre, it’s easily accessible by train or car (with onsite parking for up to 20 minutes — perfect for pick-up).
📍 Where to find it: Humberweg 2, 1043 AC Amsterdam
2. Boerejongens West: the classiest interiors around
Boerejongens is a favourite among Amsterdammers. The chain has four locations throughout Amsterdam, all trendily decorated with marble, wood and brass golden details. What class!
You’re welcomed to the Amsterdam School-style building by a host with a bowler hat, but it’s not all smoke and mirrors: their trained staff are the sommeliers of the Dutch weed world.
Boerejongens also sells some of the best weed, hash and space cake (called “spacetry,” like pastry, get it?) in Amsterdam for a fair price.
📍 Where to find it: Baarsjesweg 239, 1058 AA Amsterdam
3. Coffeeshop Amsterdam (formerly known as Dampkring 2): for the ultimate vibes
Coffeeshop Amsterdam (formerly known as Dampkring 2) is as famous as it is popular throughout the region.
I’d reckon that’s thanks to its party music, great atmosphere, and location just minutes from Amsterdam Central Station.
Set across three spacious levels, Coffeeshop Amsterdam boasts a smoker’s menu with diversity to die for — I particularly like the delicious milkshakes and the CBD Chocolate Spoon.
Plus, prices are fair, the products are *chef’s kiss*, and the “special cakes” are widely regarded as some of the best in town.
📍 Where to find it: Haarlemmerstraat 44, 1013 ES Amsterdam
4. De Tweede Kamer: a coffeeshop of the ages
Feel like a little piece of Dutch coffeeshop history? De Tweede Kamer was founded in 1985, back when Dutch cannabis regulations were quite a novelty for the world.
De Tweede Kamer was the first coffeeshop to start weighing and packaging products in front of the customers back in the day. This allowed customers to see, feel, and smell the quality of the wares.
Word on the street is that the dedicated staff won’t sell anything they wouldn’t smoke themselves, and this ongoing quest for quality is evident in the extensive cannabis menu.
This coffeeshop in Amsterdam is a testament to the genuine smoker’s culture, with an intimate and cosy feel (gezellig!). Walking in, you feel warm, welcomed, and well-advised.
Even better? The name Tweede Kamer is a playful reference to the Dutch Parliament — and their postage stamp logo is unforgettable.
📍 Where to find it: Heisteeg 6, 1012 WC Amsterdam
5. Coffeeshop BIJ: the local’s choice
Just two streets away from Boerenjongens West is Coffeeshop BIJ, a favourite coffeeshop for Amsterdam locals.
Nestled in the De Baarsjes neighbourhood, this non-touristy coffeeshop is just a stone’s throw from popular Amsterdam attractions like Vondelpark, Foodhallen, and Rembrandtpark.
Beyond the Amsterdam School-style exterior, inside is truly a sight to see: an old pharmacy chest, marble counters, and gold touches. It’s high-end weed smoking like you’ve never seen before.
The white lab-coated workers are also all class and are happy to help out anyone: from the most seasoned smokers to first-time arrivals.
📍 Where to find it: Bonairestraat 78, 1058 XL Amsterdam
6. The Stud: full of funky ambience
The Stud has been around since 1982, with its open and friendly atmosphere drawing in both tourists and locals alike.
You can also go there just to have a coffee, read a magazine or have a chat. In fact, they describe their hosts as “traffic controllers, social pedagogical workers, street sweepers, enforcers and sometimes neighbourhood mediators.” — nice!
The Stud was even awarded the title of ‘best coffeeshop in the Netherlands’ in 2015.
📍 Where to find it: Molukkenstraat 581, 1095 BJ Amsterdam
7. Coffeeshop The Corner: best price/quality ratio
The consensus for Coffeeshop The Corner? Value (and quality!) for money.
Right near the ferry to NDSM Wharf (a must-see in Amsterdam) is this gezellige Amsterdam coffeeshop. Cosy and charming, it’s a yearly favourite in the Cannabis Cup awards — which makes sense after operating for almost 30 years!
I love this coffeeshop because you’re never ripped off. In fact, the staff are likely to weigh out a little extra on the scales (and confirm with you that you want it, of course).
Uniquely, this coffeeshop offers pre-rolled joints with Moonrocks inside. If you haven’t tried Moonrocks, strap in: they’re cannabis buds that have been smothered in hash oil and rolled in kief. Let’s just say they’ll have you rocketing off, well, to the moon! 🚀
Not your thing? No stress: The Corner’s friendly staff will make a great recommendation for you instead.
📍 Where to find it: Spaarndammerdijk 9, 1013 ZM Amsterdam
8. Coffeeshop Relax: Jordaan’s finest weed in a cosy setting
This one is another classic coffeeshop in Amsterdam. Located in a homely venue in the famous Jordaan neighbourhood of Amsterdam, Coffeeshop Relax Centrum is a mere five-minute walk from Central Station.
This coffeeshop has also won prizes for its quality products, like second place in the 2022 HighLife Cup for its Amnesia G13 strain and Best Hash in 2020.
Inside you’ll find your typical weed and hash products, alongside espressos and other coffee varieties, soft drinks, tea and various freshly-baked pastries, and of course, you can go have a seat when there’s an important football game playing. What’s there not to love?
📍 Where to find it: Binnen Oranjestraat 9, 1013 HZ Amsterdam (for the centre), and Vechtstraat 9, 1078 RE Amsterdam (for south Amsterdam)
9. Katsu Coffeeshop & Gallerie: right next to the brewery
Katsu Coffeeshop is in the heart of De Pijp, wedged between Albert Cuyp Markt and the Heineken Brewery.
Upon entering there’s a pretty irresistible feeling of relaxation.
No one’s rushing around fussing the little things, and simplicity is the name of the game. Coffee is coffee, the juice is juice, and Strawberry Kush is Strawbe— wait, Strawberry Kush?
That’s right, Katsu has some of the best strains, the prices are reasonable for the quantity, and the atmosphere is nothing like the crowds of some tourist hotspots.
📍 Where to find it: Eerste v/d Helststraat 70, 1072 NZ, Amsterdam
10. Coffeeshop DNA: first-grade weed at affordable prices
If you ask me, this Amsterdam Coffeeshop’s position right near Olympic Stadium in Amsterdam is fitting because it has some world-class weed on offer.
Friendly staff are on hand at all times in the Great Gatsby-style wood and gold interior, serving up high-grade weed at some incredibly low prices. This is quality for money, on tap. ✅
I highly recommend trying out their hash — it’s some of the best in Amsterdam. Prima!
📍 Where to find it: Achillesstraat 104, 1076 RH Amsterdam
11. Coffeeshop Sensemillia Osdorp: lake views while you get lit
Imagine sitting on an Amsterdam terrace with incredible views of Amsterdam’s largest lake in front of you, taking a puff of some legit weed. Where can you experience it? Coffeeshop Sensemillia Osdorp, natuurlijk!
On the second floor of a building right on Osdorp Lake, this is a local’s coffeeshop through and through. Operating since 1981, this Amsterdam coffeeshop is downright charming, the staff are helpful, and the prices are easy on the wallet.
Even better? If you get hungry, there’s a delicious Thai restaurant nearby! Who knew Pad Thai and Amnesia Haze were such a great combination? 🍜
Keep in mind that there are two Coffeeshop Sensemillia locations, but Osdorp is the one with the to-die-for views.
📍 Where to find it: Meer en Vaart 177B, 1068 LA Amsterdam
12. Easy Times Coffeeshop: great for the first-timers
If you’re making a list right now, then you better just add this one straight on.
Let’s say you have a Sunday to spare and the afternoon is dragging out. It’s 1 PM but it feels like 5 PM, well since you’re not otherwise encumbered — a visit to Easy Times could reinvigorate your day.
A great experience if this is your first time smoking, and you’ve escaped to Amsterdam to try it. The staff are patient with everyone and help you make an informed decision.
My recommendation? They have some astonishing G-13 Amnesia Haze, loved by growers and smokers alike for its aroma, taste and lofty high.
📍 Where to find it: Prinsengracht 476, 1017 KG Amsterdam
13. Coffeeshop Pacific: for the dog lovers
A great place for smoking that’s not so dim and dreary inside, Coffeeshop Pacific has a lot of natural light, and it’s kind of reminiscent of a beach house thanks to its summery colour scheme.
This coffeeshop has a dog called Seven, he might bark at first but will settle down soon after you enter.
The guy that mans the bar has been doing it for years, the place has some chill music, an open-air feel, and plenty of seating.
📍 Where to find it: Balthasar Floriszstraat 10, 1071 VC Amsterdam
14. Coffeeshop Papillion: a coffeeshop to be free
This is an Amsterdam coffeeshop where it’s worth staying longer than usual. “Papillion” loosely translated from French as “butterfly,” is a perfect spot to sit outside for a smoke on a hot evening in summer.
A family business that’s been around since the 80s, this coffeeshop has a hella comfy lounge area, killer sound system, and even has two employees that are solely responsible for the quality of the weed stocked.
📍 Where to find it: Van der Helstplein 8, 1072 PH Amsterdam
15. Coffeeshop Siberië: the hidden gem of Amsterdam coffeeshops
With a name like Coffeeshop Siberië, you might be expecting a cold, unwelcoming place: but boy, is this Amsterdam coffeeshop the opposite.
In fact, Coffeeshop Siberië feels more like a coffee shop than a “coffeeshop.” It features local art that rotates monthly, a gezellig (cosy) vibe, wooden floors and tables, double doors that are flung open in Amsterdam’s summer to watch the canal boats float by, and — best of all — trained baristas that can whip up a delicious latte or brew tea on command.
Of course, there’s high-quality weed on offer, and while prices are a bit higher than some of the coffeeshops outside of the city centre, this location on a small side street on Brouwergracht canal makes it well worth it.
We also really like that almost all the weed on offer is tested in a lab to guarantee the THC level — now that’s a pro Amsterdam coffeeshop!
📍 Where to find it: Brouwersgracht 11, 1015 GA Amsterdam
16. Coffeeshop Dolphins: getting high under the sea
Ever wanted to feel like you’re getting high underwater? Then Coffeeshop Dolphins is the Amsterdam coffeeshop for you!
Decorated in a dolphin theme, this coffeeshop is an unforgettable experience that will make you feel like you’re onboard a 20th-century submarine. This is a bucket-list item for sure.
As you relax among the ocean-themed decor, you’ll feel totally chill. Play a board game, beat your friend at a game of chess, or just lay back and take in the great tunes.
Just a few minutes walk from Amsterdam’s Leidseplein, Coffeeshop Dolphins offers loads of seating, coffee and hot chocolate on the menu, and even a Verdamper-style glass vaporizer to help you get high in a totally unique way.
📍 Where to find it: Kerkstraat 39, 1017 GB Amsterdam
17. La Tertulia: a new-age coffeeshop to ponder the world
Flooded with natural light, La Tertulia is one of the most relaxing Amsterdam coffeeshop experiences. Its products are fully organic, and the interior is brimming with plants, art, and crystals.
Perched on Prinsengracht canal right near Amsterdam’s famous Nine Streets, La Tertulia is a prime place to have a few puffs and enjoy the high while people-watching, journalling, or mulling over a hot chocolate or toastie (which are delicious, by the way).
Set across two levels and open since 1983, this Amsterdam coffeeshop is right near Anne Frank House, making it an ideal break on a busy day of sightseeing.
Are you vegan or gluten-free? La Tertulia will have a goodie for you too! 🍰
📍 Where to find it: Prinsengracht 312, 1016 HX Amsterdam
What to do after visiting some of the best coffeeshops in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is full of surprises, most of which are within walking distance of one another.
I’d recommend visiting a museum; there are plenty of them around! If the sun is out, get some shades on, take your shoes off, kick back in the grass somewhere and put a few drops of CBD oil into your Coca-Cola in order to feel extra relaxed.
Or perhaps you want to ramp up the evening and experience a mild trip on some truffles? They are legal in the Netherlands and can be bought from smartshops (NB: these are different to coffeeshops). Make sure you read up on the effect they have before you take them though!
If you want to just grab a joint and then meet friends at another bar, bear in mind that there are still some smoking-friendly bars in Amsterdam. Your friends can drink, and you can smoke — the best of both worlds!
What are your favourite coffeeshops in Amsterdam? Tell us in the comments below!
Best coffeeshops in Amsterdam: frequently asked questions
🚬 What is the best Amsterdam coffeeshop?
If you ask me, the best Amsterdam coffeeshop is Coffeeshop Sloterdijk. This coffeeshop is bright, modern, and the “cannabis sommeliers” are on hand to help.
If you’re a tourist in Amsterdam, the Tweede Kamer is also a great choice. This coffeeshop is close to the city centre, classy, and has staff on hand that will give you all the information you need about smoking and coffeeshops in Amsterdam.
📸 Can tourists go into coffeeshops in Amsterdam?
Tourists can still go to coffeeshops in Amsterdam, order, and even smoke inside. While there have been talks to ban non-residents from Amsterdam’s coffeeshops, this hasn’t been passed into law — so tourists can still enjoy!
🧐 Why are they called coffeeshops in Amsterdam?
Amsterdam coined the term “coffeeshops” for its weed stores back in 1972, when a cafe called Mellow Yellow (and a few others) began to secretly sell hash and weed. When the city found it was difficult to stop the cafes selling it, they decided to support them instead.
Today, coffeeshops can apply for a license and must follow strict rules. Now the Netherlands’ policy of “tolerance” of cannabis products is famous worldwide, and people come from all over to visit Amsterdam’s coffeeshops.
👮♀️ What is the rule for coffeeshops in Amsterdam?
Visiting a coffeeshop in Amsterdam has simple rules:
- You must be over 18 to buy weed
- You can’t smoke tobacco in an indoor smoking area
- You can only purchase five grams at a time
Most coffeeshops in Amsterdam sell basic drinks on-site, and others might also offer food. Only rare bars allow you to smoke and drink alcohol at the same time, and these are usually independent of the coffeeshops.
🤔 What happens in coffeeshops in Amsterdam?
Coffeeshops in Amsterdam are really chill places. Typically when you walk in, there will be a room where you can buy weed. You can ask for recommendations from the workers if you’re unsure what to buy.
Then, many coffeeshops also have a smoking room or area. Here, there might be seating, televisions, music, some drinks or food, and even board games. People sit here, roll joints, smoke, and chat.
🙋♂️ How do I order in an Amsterdam coffeeshop?
Ordering in an Amsterdam coffeeshop is pretty simple:
- Show your ID at the door if asked.
- Look at the menu or ask for a recommendation. Typically you can buy buds (to roll yourself), pre-rolled joints (ready to smoke) or hash.
- Ask for any other items you need, like lighters, papers, or grinders.
- Pay (many coffeeshops only take cash).
- Enjoy! 🍀
Is weed legalised in Amsterdam?
Weed is not actually legal in the Netherlands, including in Amsterdam. Weed in the Netherlands is only decriminalised.
In December 2023, 19 coffeeshops across Breda and Tilburg started selling legally grown weed for the first time as part of a six-month-long experiment. However, weed has yet to be legalised nationwide.
A great list, much appreciated. Its too easy to end up finding a “fav” coffeeshop and end up just going there the whole time your in this great world city. Now I have the excuse to try more of those further afield.
Also, other Dutch cities have some excellent and sociable coffeeshops. What about a list and discussion of those? Many thanx again.
Indeed! Leiden also has some great coffee shops tucked away in the winding laneways 🙂
How come Easy Times ain’t on the list?!
De Kade on Stadionkade has the best edibles! Great flower, merch and friendly staff too. Definitely worth a visit.
Boerejonges for the classy interior? For the constant BEST QUALITY it is..
Rookies is the best shop in city centre not a tourist trap like half of these places on the list.
AHAHAHAHAH PACIFIC is HIGHER THEN Coffeeshop Papillion ????? OK THIS IS NOT A REAL LIST . Coffeeshop Papillion SHOULD BE TOP 3 – THEY HAVE THE STRONGEST WEED ATM IN AMS – COFFESHOP PACIFIC IS A BAD JOKE ( CUSTOMER SERVICE – PRICES – MENUS – PRODUCT – ITS A JOKE
Only been to the Dam once. But I tell you, I’ll be going back. Love the city, the people and the vibe.