Amsterdam’s coffeeshop scene has long captivated visitors from around the world. Now, a unique German-led tour promises to immerse guests in the city’s rich cannabis culture. Over 90 minutes, you will explore historic coffeeshops, sample Dutch snacks, and even learn the art of rolling a joint. With limited spots available, this immersive experience offers a rare glimpse into the vibrant counter-culture that has defined Amsterdam for decades.

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Key Points

The 1.5-hour tour offers an immersive experience exploring the history and legalization of cannabis in Amsterdam, conducted in German and Dutch.
Participants can visit historic coffeeshops, learn how to roll a joint, and sample traditional Dutch snacks and drinks during the tour.
The tour highlights the hotel of the coffeeshop culture as a result of the Netherlands’ decriminalization of small-scale cannabis possession in the 1970s.
Visitors can optionally explore the Red Light District to learn about the historical context and legalization of sex work in the Netherlands.
The tour provides an engaging and educational experience showcasing Amsterdam’s progressive and vibrant cannabis counter-culture.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The German Tour of Amsterdam’s Coffeeshops offers a 1.5-hour immersive experience that explores the history and legalization of cannabis in the city.

Enjoy the history and legalization of cannabis on this 1.5-hour tour of Amsterdam’s coffeeshops.

Priced from $26.60 per person, the tour is conducted in German and Dutch for a group size limited to 10 participants.

It’s wheelchair accessible, with a flexible cancellation policy and an option to reserve now and pay later.

Visitors can expect to visit historic coffeeshops, sample Dutch snacks and drinks, and even learn how to roll a joint from the guide.

An optional walk through the Red Light District is available for an additional €8.

Looking for more options in Amsterdam? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Exploring Amsterdam’s Cannabis History

Although Amsterdam’s coffeeshops have long been associated with the city’s liberal cannabis policies, the history of the country’s drug laws and their impact on the Dutch capital is a complex and nuanced one.

The Netherlands decriminalized the possession of small amounts of cannabis in the 1970s, leading to the hotel of the infamous coffeeshop culture.

However, the supply side remains a legal gray area, with cultivators and wholesalers operating in a semi-legal environment.

This unique approach has shaped Amsterdam’s coffeeshops, which serve as hubs for cultural exchange and a window into the nation’s progressive drug policies.

Coffeeshop Visits and Experiences

While Amsterdam’s coffeeshops have long been a draw for visitors, the experience of exploring these unique establishments offers a window into the city’s liberal cannabis policies and vibrant counter-culture.

Amsterdam’s coffeeshops provide a glimpse into the city’s progressive cannabis policies and thriving counterculture.

Coffeeshop tours provide a guided experience, allowing participants to:

Visit historic coffeeshops, including one of the oldest on Dam Square and the famous Mike Tyson Coffeeshop.
Sample Dutch snacks and drinks, including the classic bitterballen.
Receive a tutorial on rolling a joint from a knowledgeable guide, providing a hands-on introduction to the local cannabis culture.

These immersive tours offer a chance to engage with Amsterdam’s cannabis heritage firsthand.

Culinary Delights and Refreshments

As visitors traverse the historic coffeeshops, they’ve the opportunity to sample a variety of Dutch culinary delights and refreshing beverages.

The tour includes tasting traditional Dutch snacks like bitterballen, savory fried meatballs. Visitors can also sip on local drinks, such as the iconic Dutch beer.

Throughout the experience, guides provide insight into the cultural significance of these delicacies. The chance to try these authentic Dutch specialties adds to the immersive and educational nature of the coffeeshop tour, allowing participants to fully embrace the diverse offerings of Amsterdam’s cannabis culture.

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Optional Red Light District Exploration

For an additional €8, participants can opt to extend their tour with a walk through the renowned Red Light District.

This notorious area offers a glimpse into Amsterdam’s liberal attitudes towards sex work. The tour guide will:

Provide historical context and insights into the legalization and regulation of the sex industry in the Netherlands.
Point out notable landmarks and explain the iconic neon-lit window displays.
Offer a respectful perspective on the complexities surrounding the Red Light District, encouraging participants to observe with an open mind.

There's plenty more to explore in Amsterdam

Rolling a Joint With Expert Guidance

During the tour, participants have the opportunity to learn the art of rolling a joint from an experienced guide. The tutorial covers the essential techniques, from choosing the right materials to mastering the perfect roll. The guide’s expertise ensures a seamless and educational experience, empowering visitors to confidently navigate the world of cannabis consumption. To further enhance the learning, the guide provides a helpful visual aid in the form of a table outlining the key steps and considerations:

| Step | Description |

| — | — |

| 1 | Select high-quality cannabis |

| 2 | Grind the buds to the desired consistency |

| 3 | Carefully distribute the cannabis on the rolling paper |

| 4 | Use your fingers to shape and tuck the joint |

| 5 | Seal the joint and enjoy the experience responsibly |

Customer Feedback and Ratings

What do customers have to say about this guided tour of Amsterdam’s coffeeshops? Based on 465 reviews, the tour earns an impressive 4.5/5 rating.

Customers highlight the tour’s merits:

Engaging and informative, providing a fun, educational experience.
Friendly, open-minded guides who create a welcoming atmosphere for all participants, even those new to cannabis.
The tour offers valuable cultural insights, catering to both experienced and inexperienced travelers.

Reviewers emphasize the tour’s ability to deliver on its promises, creating an enjoyable and memorable experience for those seeking to explore Amsterdam’s unique coffeeshop culture.

Important Considerations

This tour may not be suitable for all travelers. Pregnant women and those under 17 years of age are not permitted to participate. Guests are advised to bring a valid passport or ID, comfortable shoes, cash, face masks, and hand sanitizer. While the tour aims to create a welcoming atmosphere, it’s important to note the maximum group size is 20 participants. Plus, the tour may be canceled due to hazardous weather conditions, and its availability is limited on major holidays.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Cannabis Products on the Tour?

No, participants cannot bring their own cannabis products on the tour. The tour is designed to provide information and guide visitors through licensed coffeeshops, but does not allow the use of personal cannabis.

Is It Legal to Consume Cannabis Outside of Coffeeshops?

No, it’s not legal to consume cannabis outside of licensed coffeeshops in Amsterdam. The tour focuses on the history and legalization of cannabis, but participants cannot bring or use their own cannabis products during the experience.

Do I Need a Medical Card to Visit the Coffeeshops?

No, a medical card is not required to visit Amsterdam’s coffeeshops. Coffeeshops are licensed to sell cannabis for personal consumption, though consumption in public outside of the shops is generally not permitted.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participating in the Tour?

The tour has an age restriction – participants must be at least 17 years old. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or individuals under 17 years of age, according to the important information provided.

Can I Purchase Cannabis Products Through the Tour Guide?

No, the tour guide does not provide or assist in purchasing cannabis products. Participants must be at least 17 years old and can only consume cannabis legally available at licensed coffeeshops during the tour’s optional activities.

The Sum Up

The "Do You Speak Grass? German Tour of Amsterdam’s Coffeeshops" offers an immersive exploration of the city’s rich cannabis culture. Participants can explore the history, visit iconic coffeeshops, sample local delicacies, and even learn the art of rolling a joint. This unique experience caters to German-speaking travelers, providing a fascinating glimpse into Amsterdam’s liberal policies and vibrant counterculture.

You can check availability for your dates here: