Visiting a coffeeshop in Amsterdam for the first time can raise a lot of questions. How old do you need to be? Do you need to bring ID? Can tourists visit a coffeeshop? And what are the rules once you're inside?

The Rookies has been part of Amsterdam since 1992. We are owned and run by born-and-raised Amsterdammers, with family roots in the city going back generations. From our location near Leidseplein, we've welcomed locals and visitors from all over the world for more than 30 years.

In this guide, we answer some of the most common questions first-time visitors have about visiting a coffeeshop in Amsterdam.

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What is a coffeeshop in Amsterdam?

In the Netherlands, the word “coffeeshop” has a specific meaning. A coffeeshop is an establishment where the sale of small quantities of cannabis is tolerated under strict conditions.

This is different from a regular café or coffee bar.

Cannabis is not fully legal in the Netherlands. Instead, the Netherlands has a toleration policy, known in Dutch as the gedoogbeleid, under which coffeeshops may sell cannabis when they comply with specific rules.

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How old do you have to be to visit a coffeeshop in Amsterdam?

You must be at least 18 years old to enter a coffeeshop and purchase cannabis.

At The Rookies, visitors should always bring a valid form of identification. If you cannot prove that you are 18 or older, you cannot enter.

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Do I need ID to enter The Rookies?

Yes. Always bring a valid ID with you when visiting The Rookies.

Even if you are clearly over 18, having valid identification with you avoids problems if your age needs to be verified.

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Can tourists visit coffeeshops in Amsterdam?

Yes. Adult tourists can visit coffeeshops in Amsterdam, provided they meet the age requirement and follow the rules of the coffeeshop.

If you're visiting Amsterdam from abroad, remember that the city's coffeeshop culture comes with rules and responsibilities. Respect the house rules, the city and the people around you.

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How much cannabis can you buy?

Under the Dutch toleration policy, a coffeeshop may sell a maximum of 5 grams of cannabis per person per day.

The Rookies follows the rules and requirements that apply to coffeeshops in Amsterdam.

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Can you smoke cannabis outside in Amsterdam?

Don't assume that cannabis can be smoked anywhere in Amsterdam.

Public cannabis smoking is prohibited in certain parts of the city. In Amsterdam's Red Light District (De Wallen), there is a ban on smoking cannabis in public spaces. This means you are not allowed to smoke cannabis on the streets within the designated area.

Outside this area, you should still pay attention to local signs and restrictions, as additional rules may apply in specific locations.

When in doubt, the safest option is to consume cannabis inside a coffeeshop where this is permitted.

Always respect local rules, residents and the people around you.

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What should I expect when visiting The Rookies for the first time?

If you've never visited a coffeeshop before, there's no need to pretend that you know everything.

People from all over the world visit Amsterdam's coffeeshops for the first time, and questions are completely normal. Our staff can explain our house rules and answer questions about the products available at The Rookies.

If something isn't clear, just ask before making a decision.

We want visitors to feel comfortable, welcome and informed during their time at The Rookies.

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What if I have little or no experience with cannabis?

Cannabis products can differ significantly in strength and effects. More is not necessarily better.

If you choose to use cannabis and have little or no previous experience, let a member of staff know and ask for information about the products before deciding what to purchase.

Take your time and never feel pressured to choose or consume something you don't understand.

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Can I mix cannabis with alcohol or other drugs?

Mixing cannabis with alcohol or other drugs can increase risks and make the effects less predictable.

Dutch health information advises against combining cannabis with alcohol or other drugs.

If you use medication or have questions about possible interactions, seek appropriate professional medical or pharmaceutical advice.

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What should I do if I don't feel well?

If you feel uncomfortable or unwell while you're at The Rookies, tell a member of staff.

Don't be embarrassed to ask for help. If you're visiting with friends, keep an eye on each other and don't pressure anyone to consume more than they are comfortable with.

For medical concerns, always seek appropriate medical assistance.

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Where is The Rookies?

The Rookies is located at Korte Leidsedwarsstraat 145–147 in Amsterdam, close to Leidseplein in the heart of the city.

Our location is within walking distance of several well-known Amsterdam destinations, including Leidseplein, Paradiso, Melkweg and Vondelpark.

This makes The Rookies easy to find when you're exploring the Leidseplein area and the centre of Amsterdam.

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What makes The Rookies different?

The Rookies has been part of Amsterdam's coffeeshop scene since 1992, but our connection to Amsterdam goes back much further.

The Rookies is owned and run by born-and-raised Amsterdammers, with family roots in the city going back generations. Amsterdam isn't simply where our coffeeshop is located – it's our home.

Over more than 30 years, we've welcomed generations of locals as well as visitors from countries all over the world.

For us, a good coffeeshop experience isn't just about what's on the menu. It's also about creating a relaxed and welcoming place where people feel comfortable asking questions and can get clear information.

That combination of more than 30 years of coffeeshop experience, genuine Amsterdam roots and personal hospitality is an important part of The Rookies.

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Visit responsibly

Amsterdam's coffeeshop culture is part of the city, but it comes with rules and responsibilities.

Respect your own limits, the people around you, our neighbourhood and the city. If you're unsure about something during your visit, don't hesitate to ask our staff.

Rules and regulations can change, so we recommend checking current information from the City of Amsterdam and the Dutch Government when planning your visit.