The city of Amsterdam is famous for its coffeeshops that serve far more than just coffee and lattes. Marijuana has been legal in this beautiful Dutch city since the 1970s, and it’s still a big selling point for tourists around the world. While there are still many laws that regulate drug use in the Netherlands, official coffeeshops in the city are the safest place to buy marijuana products in Amsterdam. Many of these coffeeshops have menus to browse and trained staff to explain the shop’s offerings and make recommendations on different strains of marijuana, hash, pre-rolled joints, and infused baked goods. Here are some of the top coffeeshops to check out during your visit to Amsterdam.
Easy Times
Located right in the middle of Amsterdam at Prinsengracht 476, Easy Times has a relaxing vibe and a welcoming décor with sofas, flat-screen TVs, and Wi-Fi. This is a great place for visitors who are looking for a delicious selection of marijuana-infused baked goods and a laidback atmosphere that isn’t too loud or rowdy. As with all coffeeshops in Amsterdam, you must be at least 18 years old to enter and there are a few house rules to follow, including no outside food or drinks, you can’t consume alcohol and no sleeping in the shop. You can check out Easy Times’ website for the current menu.
Barney's Coffeeshop
Barney’s Coffeeshop is located in a historical building that dates back 500 years and continues to be immensely popular today. It’s won the High Times Cup award several times, which is a major annual event in the city. This is a great coffeeshop to check out for inexperienced marijuana users, because Barney’s employs friendly and knowledgeable staff that can explain the menu offerings. Unlike many of the other coffeeshops in Amsterdam, this one also serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea, and milkshakes. It is conveniently located near Amsterdam Central Station. You can also listen to DJs spin their magic on select days of the week.
The Bulldog The First
This was the first coffeeshop that opened up in Amsterdam in the mid-1970s, and you’ll see the “Bulldog” name posted on signs all around the city. There are five coffeeshop locations, five cafe locations, and you can even stay at The Bulldog Hotel Amsterdam, which is a five-star hostel in the city, or across “the pond” to stay at The Bulldog Hotel Silver Star in Vernon, British Columbia, Canada. The first location has two levels, a souvenir shop, and an outdoor patio that overlooks the nearby canal. Some of the most popular strains that the Bulldog offers include Northern Lights, Bullshark, O.Z. Kush, and Silver Star Haze.
Dampkring
This coffeeshop is a pretty safe bet for anyone who wants to experience the Amsterdam marijuana scene. Locals, tourists, beginners, and experienced smokers are all welcome here, and this is a great place to meet new people in a friendly environment. Unlike many other coffeeshops in the city, Dampkring is spacious inside and a place where patrons can also kick back and enjoy a beer. It’s generally open from 10a.m. to 1a.m. every day, and the prices are comparable to other shops around town. You might recognize the Dampkring Coffeeshop from its cameo in the movie, Ocean’s 12!
Green House Centrum
Another coffeeshop that has been a consistent winner of High Times Cannabis Cups is Green House, which is a favorite among Amsterdam travelers. In fact, you’ll find lots of photos on the wall of famous people who have visited the coffeeshop over the years. It’s located in the Red Light District and pretty easy to find. With that being said, it does have somewhat of a touristy vibe. However, their products are always high quality. There’s a terrace to sit on and enjoy lovely views of the canals, and Green House serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Check out the special burger menu and ask your server what the “smoothie of the day” is.
BABA
If you’ve already visited a couple coffeeshops in Amsterdam and are looking for more of a zen vibe, head to BABA, which features Asian/Middle Eastern décor and stone artifacts to check out while you’re enjoying your favorite new strain. Customers here rave about a few specific ones, such as White Widow, L.A. Confidential, and Aghani Border. This is also a great place if you like to eat your marijuana instead of smoking it. You can usually find fresh chocolate brownies and space cakes that taste delicious and pack a serious punch.
Amnesia
Amnesia is another award-winning coffeeshop in Amsterdam that tops the list for many Amsterdam travelers. It’s easy to feel at home and comfortable when you visit because there are couches and stools to sit on in a laid-back atmosphere. Amnesia’s menu typically includes 1-gram and 5-gram offerings of around a dozen varieties of marijuana, as well as pre-rolled joints, space cakes, and hash. The staff prides itself on answering all questions visitors may have in a friendly and approachable way. This is a great place for visitors who don’t want to be surrounded by cheesy weed-themed décor, but want to chill out with friends, board games, mellow music, and a mix of people.
Grey Area
Grey Area is close to the Dam Square area in Amsterdam. This shop prides itself on being a specialty weed shop and a favorite among celebrities and experts. Some celebrities and bands that have visited the shop include Willie Nelson, 311, Deftones, and Phish. It’s open every day from noon until 8:00 pm and the original home of strains like Double Bubble Gum, Grey Haze, and Yellow Cab. There isn’t a lot of seating at this shop, and there are actually only 17 seats between the counters and tables inside!
