Coffee shop
The name itself suggests it's a cafe, but this cafe offers more than just a cup of coffee. Besides the traditional menu, they also offer a marijuana menu. The selection is truly extensive, and even the most demanding customer will find something to their taste.Unfortunately, we won't find this type of cafe in our country. The only place in the world where this is legal is the Netherlands.
Coffee shops are a major tourist attraction. Over one and a half million people visit them annually. There are around 700 in the entire Netherlands, with almost a third in Amsterdam alone.
You can buy 5g of marijuana per person. This is already a limitation for sellers. They face an even bigger problem of being able to store only 500g. The government is becoming less accommodating, and from January 1, 2013, a new law was introduced that will lead to the certain collapse of some sellers. This involves a ban on selling marijuana to foreigners in the Netherlands. But let's go back to the beginning.
History
The origin of coffee shops dates back to the early 70s. At that time, the Netherlands distinguishes between soft and hard drugs, strictly punishing hard drug dealers while tolerating soft drugs like marijuana. Among the first coffee shops were Mellow Yellow and Bulldog.
1976 - The law is amended, clearly defining the amount of marijuana not considered a criminal offense (30g). However, the illegality of cafes continues until 1980.
In the 90s, the government decides to limit the number of cafes. Operating permits begin to be issued. All cafes must have a green and white badge proving they have a license to sell marijuana.
Present
As mentioned above, from January 1, 2013, a ban on selling marijuana to foreigners in the Netherlands was enacted. Amsterdam is the only exception, where marijuana can still be sold to foreigners. Marijuana and hashish will only be available with a cannabis card, which foreigners cannot obtain. The government's argument is that coffee shops are associated with crime. Illegal plantations supplying coffee shops are increasingly appearing. Unfortunately, this means you might receive cannabis of uncertain potency, potentially containing pesticides - chemical substances against biological pests, etc.
Regulations for Coffee Shops
- no advertising
- export ban outside the Netherlands
- ban on selling hard drugs
- no sales to people under 18
- max. 500g in stock
- max. 5g of marijuana per person
As a proper tourist, if you decide to explore the marijuana paradise, we offer you a few tips on very popular coffee shops.
Rasta Baby
Located at Prins Hendrikkade 6-7, 1012 Tk Amsterdam, open from 9:00 AM - 01:00 AM. Music and interior adapted for reggae lovers.
Grey Area
A small but very popular coffee shop with high-quality products. It has a special American atmosphere, emphasized by predominantly American rock music.
Barney's
The most original and futuristic coffee shop. You'll meet friendly staff. Open from 7:00 AM - 01:00 AM.
Abraxas
This year it celebrates 21 years in the market. It's literally a beautiful, peaceful, and fairytale-like place.
Pink Floyd
A large three-story coffee shop. Truly extensive marijuana selection. You can also eat cheaply and deliciously here.
Others include: Kandinski - One of the smallest coffee shops, with just one table and a small bar, Bulldog - The oldest and most famous, La Canna - The largest three-story coffee shop in Amsterdam. Billiards available, Doors - In 70s style.
After visiting one of these coffee shops, you will surely take home an experience you will remember for a long time.