As the capital of Friesland, Leeuwarden has its own unique pace — and its coffeeshop scene reflects that. Less chaotic than the Randstad cities but still 100% legit, Leeuwarden offers a handful of reliable shops for locals, students, and northern visitors looking for solid cannabis without the noise.
Expect a friendly vibe, clear menus, and just enough variety — all tucked into this laid-back Dutch city with canals, history, and that unmistakable northern character.
It’s not like as in the Amsterdam Coffeeshops — and that’s exactly the point. Leeuwarden is spacious, friendly, and easy to navigate. You can walk from a coffeeshop to a canal café in 5 minutes, and chances are, nobody’s rushing you.
Coming from Groningen, Sneek, Dokkum or the Wadden coast? Leeuwarden is perfectly placed for a chill stop without the pressure or pricing of more tourist-heavy cities.
Leeuwarden’s coffeeshops are mostly takeaway-oriented, though some offer small seating areas. What they share is a local feel: clean, consistent, and down to earth.
Here’s what you’ll usually find:
Good weed & hash at normal prices
Pre-rolled joints for every budget
Basic accessories (papers, tips, grinders)
Staff that know their stuff, without the sales pitch
Fewer tourists, more regulars
Whether you’re on a weekend trip or live nearby, you’ll get quality product and quick service without fuss.
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.