Amsterdam Cannabis Culture

In Amsterdam, Cannabis consumption is generally kept off the streets. The coffeehouses are the most common place to smoke the substance. The people of Amsterdam generally avoid abusing the substance.

Marijuana and hash, considered “soft drugs” by the Dutch government, are allowed in small amounts for personal use and open consumption is culturally discouraged outside of coffee houses. Inside coffee houses, the atmosphere can vary from relaxed and peaceful to loud and vibrant with pulsing music. No one under age 18 is allowed in coffeeshops, and staff also will not tolerate aggression, loitering, hard drugs like cocaine, and some coffeeshops do not allow alcohol or cell phones.

Coffee houses have full menus and staff will generally be very willing to help newcomers understand the strength and general effects of the different marijuana varieties sold. Coffeeshops are not to be confused with cafés, where only coffee and tea are sold.