The coffeeshops of Amsterdam are known all around the world. Weed-lovers from across the globe flock to the city to buy cannabis and light up legally. Millions have visited, from curious first-timers to seasoned stoners and celebrities. These stores are not allowed to advertise, but you can almost always find the phrase 'coffeeshop' somewhere in the signage, not to be confused with 'café', which is a shop that actually sells coffee.

Coffeeshops will vary widely in decor and vibe, and are in constant competition to sell the highest-quality cannabis. Standout coffeeshops with the best weed have risen to the top of our list of recommendations. If you are going to visit Amsterdam's coffeeshops, here are 7 you will not want to miss.

KATSU

In many ways, Katsu is a quintessential Amsterdam coffeeshop. All of the classic elements are there, from their front garden to the comfy lounge out back; from the psychedelic artwork on the walls to the trippy choice of music - it has a vibe that's trendy, yet welcoming to tourists and satisfied locals alike.

Top this all off with some of the best hash in the city, sold by some of the most knowledgeable connoisseurs around. No wonder it's even a favourite among Dutch residents of De Pijp neighbourhood. It's always a good sign if you hear Dutch being spoken in a coffeeshop. While you're visiting, De Pijp has real charm as a local neighbourhood south of the city centre. The nearby Sarphatipark looks stunning in the glow of sunset. Katsu is well worth paying a visit.

GREY AREA

Grey Area was founded by Americans who wanted to contribute a taste of US cultivation to the Amsterdam scene. A lot of tourists and celebrities visit. It is situated only a few blocks away from the Anne Frank House, arguably the city's most famous attraction.

How could Americans move in on such a prime location for a Dutch tradition? They occupy a very small store. There is limited seating inside and often long queues for people waiting to purchase their bud and hash. This is more than made up for with what Grey Area has going for it. Very high-quality strains that are hard to find elsewhere are sold here.

If you catch them at a less busy time, their friendly staff may even roll a joint of your preferred strain for you. Do check out this landmark of Amsterdam's cannabis scene.

Tweede Kamer Coffeeshop

Outsiders can set up a coffeeshop in Amsterdam, and some of them may endure. But what about the natives of the city? What do they seek in a coffeeshop? Sometimes it's not about what's trendy, but what's cozy. Certain coffeeshops go classy with their decor with wood paneling and traditional Dutch artwork.

Tweede Kamer is such a coffeeshop, nestled away on a quiet street. It’s popular with the locals for its well-stocked supplies of weed and hash, which has been the case since 1985. This means you are guaranteed top-quality cannabis in well-maintained surroundings.

1E HULP

Some of the best coffeeshops are found when venturing out further from the city centre. Not only will you see more of the city, you will discover some hidden gems of the coffeeshop scene. 1e Hulp still attracts many visitors. Its Eastern-themed artwork adorns mellow green walls around multiple levels of seating.

This is an ideal spot for sitting back and enjoying cannabis. There is plenty of seating, much of it on comfortable couches. With the strong weed and hash on offer at 1e Hulp, you may need to chill out for a while anyway. These surroundings are perfect for enjoying their bud, hash, and legendary moonrocks, as well as their range of snacks.

THE STUD

At another end of the city is another classic coffeeshop the locals love. The Stud is open to tourists from around the world, but has a very distinctive local character. Football enthusiasts will notice the jerseys and photos adorning the walls. The living room atmosphere of the place is intended to be welcoming.

They sell a range of merchandise and, of course, top-quality cannabis. They even sell a very high-THC hash, which is only advised for seasoned smokers. If you're unsure of which strain to purchase, they will give you randomised samples in a mystery box. They have only been in this venue since 2013 and are already a standout among the city's coffeeshops.

KADINSKY

Kadinsky leaves a mark of quality that they pride themselves on. You feel as though you’re a part of the future as you step inside. Very trendy modern decor throughout their coffeeshop lends an undeniably cool atmosphere to the place. It’s still a welcoming space with some of the friendliest staff in the city.

Enjoy the vibe here with some of the city's finest cannabis. They boast some particularly balanced hybrids from the best Dutch cultivators, strong Hazes in a variety of flavours, and the finest hash from Morocco and Nepal. Visit Kadinsky for a coffeeshop committed to excellence.

BOEREJONGENS

The joint first place goes to none other than the illustrious Boerejongens coffeeshop chain. Based in several locations, cannabis connoisseurs from all over the world come not only for their selection of local and imported cannabis strains but also for their lavish decor. One of their flagship coffee shops located on the Utrechtsestraat oozes sophistication with its exquisite marble floors and collection of luxurious decorations. If you want an extremely professional, high-end feel to your dispensary, Boerejongens is sure to please.

Although many visitors spend time marvelling at the combination of high-end decor and premium grade weed, their city centre store is more about providing a take and go service for their collection of locally bred strains. However, should you chose to stay, coffees, snacks and an upstairs smoking area will cater to every customers' need. For those that have never visited Boerejongens before, it is highly recommended you try their “block hash”, alongside some divine edibles—they have attracted quite a following.

In addition to their city centre dispensary, three other stores exist. Boerejongens BIJ, Boerejongens West and their flagship store Boerejongens Sloterdijk. It goes without saying that you can expect the same attention to detail and highly professional interior design, matched only by their comprehensive array of marijuana strains. Whichever location you visit, Boerejongens has become renowned as a favourite among cannabis lovers.