The Best Coffeeshops in Amsterdam

The Hash Marihuana & Hemp Museum in Amsterdam is one of the world’s oldest museums dedicated to cannabis, offering a comprehensive look at the plant’s history, cultural significance and practical uses.

What you’ll find

Cannabis and hemp exhibition
An engaging overview of the plant’s origins, its role in different cultures and its many uses, from medicinal to industrial.

Plants and artefacts
Live cannabis plants, historical objects and rare items that illustrate how cannabis and hemp have been used throughout the centuries.

Interactive displays
Informative installations that explain cultivation methods, processing techniques and the science behind the plant.

Museum shop
A curated selection of books, souvenirs and hemp-based products.

Important information
The museum is suitable for a wide audience and offers an educational experience for visitors interested in learning more about cannabis in a cultural and historical context.

The Cannabis Museum Amsterdam offers an interactive introduction to the history, culture and evolution of cannabis, right in the heart of the city centre. The museum combines educational exhibits with modern installations designed for curious visitors and cannabis enthusiasts alike.

What you’ll find

Interactive cannabis exhibition
Learn about the origins of cannabis, its cultural impact and how the plant has evolved from ancient traditions to modern Amsterdam coffeeshop culture.

Live plants and displays
See real cannabis plants, educational exhibits and interactive installations explaining cultivation methods and the different uses of the plant.

Science and history
Explore the myths, facts and scientific background surrounding cannabis through engaging multimedia presentations.

Museum shop
A selection of souvenirs, cannabis-inspired products and exclusive merchandise available at the museum store.

Important information
The museum is located on Damstraat in central Amsterdam and most visitors spend around 45 minutes exploring the exhibitions.

Boerejongens is widely seen as the brand that changed the game in Amsterdam by turning the traditional coffeeshop visit into a high end boutique experience. Often described as the sommelier of the cannabis world, they have earned a massive following by focusing on top tier quality and a level of professionalism that is hard to find anywhere else.

Design and atmosphere Forget the typical dark and smoky vibe of the past. Walking into a Boerejongens location feels more like entering a luxury jewelry store or a classic apothecary. The space is filled with marble floors, polished wooden counters and classy gold accents. To top it off, the staff wears signature white coats and bow ties, which gives the whole place a serious yet welcoming feel that makes you feel you are in good hands.

The experience The focus here is on expert service and getting things done right. Most of their locations are designed for a quick and efficient visit since they usually do not have seating areas. You might see a queue outside because of their popularity, but the team inside is famous for keeping things moving fast and organized. They make sure every visitor gets professional advice without having to wait around for too long.

Visitor information You must be at least 18 years old to enter and you will need to show a valid ID. Like all legal spots in the city, they do not sell alcohol or hard drugs. Also keep in mind that smoking tobacco inside is not allowed, as they keep the focus purely on the green stuff.

The Smoky is right in the heart of the action at Rembrandtplein, making it one of the most social and high energy spots in the city. Since it is surrounded by some of Amsterdam’s best bars and clubs, it naturally attracts a lively crowd of travelers and locals who want to soak up the vibrant nightlife scene while they unwind.

Atmosphere and vibe While many shops go for a quiet or hidden feel, The Smoky has the buzz of a busy bar. The space is bright and colorful with classic rock often playing in the background, creating a setting that is almost always full of life. It is the kind of place that feels open and friendly, making it a perfect choice for groups who want a social experience rather than just a quiet corner.

The experience What makes this spot stand out is how they show off their selection in large glass displays instead of just a printed list. Beyond the cannabis, they also serve a good range of food and drinks, so it is a comfortable place to hang out for a while with friends. If the weather is nice, they have a few tables outside where you can sit back and watch the world go by in the middle of the busy square.

Visitor information Entry is strictly for those aged 18 and older so make sure to have your ID ready. Just like every other legal shop in town, you won’t find any alcohol or hard drugs here, as the focus is entirely on providing a safe and fun cannabis environment.

Abraxas is a true hidden gem tucked away in a tiny alley just a few steps from the busy Dam Square. It is famous for being one of the most beautiful and creative spots in Amsterdam, with three levels of unique decor that make you feel like you have stepped into another world. It is the kind of place that people keep coming back to for its calm and artistic soul.

Atmosphere and vibe The moment you walk in, the soft music and hand crafted details create a cozy and welcoming bubble. The vibe is peaceful and mellow, making it the perfect escape when you need a break from the crowded city center. Every corner of the shop is filled with art and color, reflecting the creative spirit that Abraxas has been known for over the years.

The experience The team here is known for being friendly and really knowing their stuff, which makes the whole process feel easy and professional. While their selection of herbs and hash is top notch, many visitors come just as much for the famous coffee and freshly baked brownies. It is a great place to sit back, enjoy a treat and take in the artistic surroundings.

Practical notes Because it is such a popular spot, it can get quite busy especially on weekends, so you might need a little patience to find a seat during peak times. Like all official shops in the city, they do not sell alcohol or hard drugs, and you must be at least 18 years old with a valid ID to enter.

The Green House sits right along one of the most famous canals in Amsterdam and is just a short walk from the Red Light District. It is easily one of the most celebrated names in the city and has become a true landmark for cannabis culture. Over the years it has turned into a magnet for international celebrities, and you can see proof of this on the walls which are covered with photos of stars from around the world who have dropped by.

Atmosphere and experience This spot is legendary for its focus on high quality cannabis and seeds, which has helped it win more awards than almost any other shop in town. What makes it even more unique is the fully equipped kitchen that serves up fresh meals all day long. This mix of premium products and actual food makes it a great place to settle in for a while and enjoy the view of the water.

Locations Because of its huge popularity the brand has expanded to several spots across the city center, so you are never too far from one. While the main canal location can get very busy and definitely has a tourist vibe, the consistent quality and history of the place make it a must see stop for anyone exploring the heart of Amsterdam.

Practical notes Just like every other legal shop in the Netherlands, you will not find any alcohol or hard drugs here. Access is strictly for those aged 18 and older, so make sure you have a valid ID with you when you visit.

Two coffeeshops in Amsterdam carry the name Dampkring and each one has its own specific character. The original location became a global sensation after appearing in the 2004 film Oceans Twelve and it still draws fans from all over the world. The interior is a beautiful mix of Arabic, Bohemian and Buddhist styles, creating a mellow and artistic setting that feels completely different from any other spot in the city.

The menu and experience One of the best things about this place is the menu which is famous for its detailed descriptions of flavor, aroma and effects. It is a fantastic choice if you are a first time visitor or even a seasoned smoker who wants to know exactly what they are getting. Because of its reputation the shop stays busy all day long but the vibrant energy is part of what makes it special.

The second location A second Dampkring can be found on Haarlemmerstraat which is widely considered one of the most charming streets in Amsterdam. This location offers a much quieter and more laid back experience. It is perfect if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed vibe while exploring one of the most characterful neighborhoods in the city center.

Practical notes Just like every other legal spot in Amsterdam, alcohol and hard drugs are not sold here. Entry is strictly for those aged 18 and older, so be sure to have your ID ready when you stop by.

The Bulldog is widely celebrated as the birthplace of the modern coffeeshop scene. Its history goes all the way back to 1975 when the founder Henk de Vries decided to turn his father former shop in the Red Light District into a friendly space for cannabis fans. Named after his loyal dog Joris, this was the very first place to openly sell cannabis, helping put Amsterdam on the map as a world leader in cannabis culture.

The atmosphere The vibe here is famously laid back and full of character. Walking inside feels like stepping into a piece of history, with walls covered in memorabilia and quirky details from over the decades. They offer a solid selection of high quality flowers, hash and edibles, and the staff is known for being approachable. This makes it a very easy and comfortable choice if you are a first time visitor or just want a reliable spot with a friendly environment.

The Bulldog experience Many of their locations feel more like a cozy cafe where you can grab a coffee or a snack along with your purchase. The most famous spot is the flagship location on the Oudezijds Voorburgwal canal. It sits right in the middle of the Red Light District and is still the go to destination for travelers who want to experience the roots of the city coffee shop history.

Beyond the shop What started as a single basement has grown into a massive global name. Today the brand is known everywhere and includes hotels, bars and plenty of merchandise. It has become one of the most recognizable symbols of Amsterdam, representing a legacy that has lasted for over fifty years.

Practical notes Like all official spots in town, they do not sell alcohol or hard drugs. You must be at least 18 years old to enter, so make sure you have your ID on you when you visit.

Dolphins is a welcoming spot known for its mellow and friendly vibe, making it a great pick for travelers who want a more peaceful experience in Amsterdam. It sits just a short walk from the busy Leidseplein, so it is very easy to find whether you are exploring on foot or using the city trams.

Atmosphere and design The shop has a very unique look thanks to its underwater theme, with ocean inspired details and colors spread across two different levels. The upstairs area feels like a classic cafe where you can sit and watch the world go by, while the basement is filled with big cozy sofas and comfortable corners that are perfect for stretching out. The whole place feels original and well thought out, making it very easy to settle into for a while.

The experience The energy here usually stays calm and quiet, with soft music playing in the background and screens showing sports or other visuals. They also offer wifi, which makes it a really practical place to take a break, catch up on some messages and slow down from the fast pace of the city streets.

Selection and menu Dolphins has earned a lot of fans for the quality of its menu, especially when it comes to the edibles. Their freshly prepared space cakes and muffins are often talked about by visitors as some of the best in the area, offering a tasty and high quality alternative to the more standard options.

Practical notes Just like all official shops in the Netherlands, you will not find any alcohol or hard drugs here. The shop is strictly for those aged 18 and older, so make sure you have your ID with you when you arrive at the door.

Easy Times is a popular spot along Prinsengracht, which is one of the most famous canals in the city. It sits perfectly between the Flower Market and the energetic Leidseplein area, making it a very convenient place to stop and recharge while you are out exploring the streets of central Amsterdam.

Atmosphere and design Inside, the shop mixes a clean modern look with the laid back feel you would expect from a classic Amsterdam coffeeshop. The warm lighting and contemporary details create a vibe that feels alive and social without ever being too much. It is the kind of place where you can feel at home as soon as you walk through the door.

The experience The shop brings in a great mix of local residents and travelers, which keeps the energy friendly and easygoing all day long. One of the best parts about this location is that when the weather is nice, you can actually sit outside right by the water. It is a fantastic spot to just relax and watch the canal boats go by.

Selection and menu Easy Times has built a solid reputation for the high quality of its products, which is why so many people keep coming back. They take pride in their selection, making sure that everything on the menu meets the high standards that regular visitors have come to expect over the years.

Practical notes Just like any other legal shop in the Netherlands, they do not sell alcohol or hard drugs. You will need to be at least 18 years old to enter, so remember to bring a valid ID with you when you stop by.