Coffeeshop (Netherlands)

Coffeeshop (Netherlands)

A typical coffeeshop menu in Amsterdam

A coffeeshop in the Netherlands is a type of establishment where the sale of cannabis for personal consumption by the public is tolerated by the local authorities.

History[edit | edit source]

The history of coffeeshops in the Netherlands can be traced back to the 1970s. The Dutch government decided to differentiate between "hard" and "soft" drugs. While the consumption of hard drugs like heroin and cocaine was criminalized, the use of soft drugs, including cannabis, was tolerated. This led to the rise of coffeeshops where cannabis could be bought and consumed.

Regulations[edit | edit source]

Coffeeshops are not allowed to advertise drugs openly, and they are not allowed to sell alcohol or hard drugs. They are also not allowed to sell cannabis to minors or to sell more than 5 grams of cannabis per person per day. The coffeeshops are regularly checked by the police to ensure they are adhering to these rules.

Cannabis Products[edit | edit source]

Coffeeshops offer a variety of cannabis products, including marijuana, hashish, and edibles. The quality and potency of these products can vary greatly, so it is recommended that inexperienced users ask the staff for advice.

Tourism[edit | edit source]

Coffeeshops have become a popular tourist attraction in cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam. However, some cities in the Netherlands have introduced a "weed pass" that allows only residents of the Netherlands to purchase cannabis.