Alkmaar may be world-famous for its cheese market, but the city also has a solid cannabis scene with several coffeeshops worth visiting.
It’s a mix of cosy local spots and practical take-away shops, spread across the city centre and nearby neighbourhoods.
The atmosphere is typically Alkmaar: friendly, laid-back, and less hectic than the big tourist cities.
Whether you’re in town for the cheese or just passing through, the coffeeshops here make it easy to find what you’re looking for.
Shops in Alkmaar tend to focus on the essentials: straightforward menus, approachable staff, and a calm vibe.
Some have seating for a short break, others are more geared towards quick pickups, but overall the quality is reliable and prices are fair.
Minimum age: 18+, valid ID required
Limit: 5 grams per person per day
Payment: Card often accepted, but cash is handy
Respect the neighbourhood: no smoking in the street, no noise, no litter
Tourist access: Coffeeshops in Alkmaar are open to all visitors
Alkmaar has a decent spread of coffeeshops, each with its own character.
Click the shop buttons below to explore individual pages with menus, photos, and visitor tips.
Coffee shops near the borders with Belgium and Germany often have restrictions on allowing tourists. To enter and purchase cannabis, you must either be a Dutch citizen or be employed in the Netherlands.
If you're temporarily working or studying in the country, you can obtain proof from the city council and request a GBA Extract (GBA-Uitreksel). This documentation will help demonstrate your eligibility to access these establishments.