All over the world, more and more places are giving cannabis enthusiasts the opportunity to enjoy their passion legally or at least in a tolerated form — whether it’s relaxed consumption, cultural exploration or unique 420-friendly experiences. This guide is for those who want to learn more about cannabis tourism: which countries and cities are considered safe and open destinations, what regulations to watch out for, where to find legal clubs and how to enjoy every moment of travel responsibly and mindfully — whether with or without smoke. Join us on a green adventure!

There are many countries and cities around the world where cannabis use is treated more leniently — whether in legal or tolerated ways. Below we’ll review the most popular cannabis-friendly destinations and their local legal frameworks:

• Netherlands (Amsterdam): For decades, the Netherlands has been regarded as Europe’s cannabis capital. While cannabis is technically not legal here, the sale and consumption of small amounts in coffeeshops is tolerated. It’s important to note that public consumption is prohibited and since 2023, smoking on the streets of Amsterdam’s historic city center is explicitly banned (with a possible €100 fine). Although discussions about banning tourists from coffeeshops come up from time to time, most locations still serve foreign visitors.

• Spain (Barcelona): Spain is often referred to as a cannabis paradise, though the legal situation is nuanced. Cannabis is officially still illegal, but consumption and small-scale cultivation for personal use on private property have been decriminalized. This legal framework allows the famous cannabis clubs to operate: private, membership-based associations where members collectively grow cannabis for their own use. These clubs exist in a legal gray area — officially, cannabis is "shared" only among members, but in practice, many clubs allow on-site purchases in exchange for donations, similar to Dutch coffeeshops. Tourists can also access these clubs (usually with a referral from a sponsoring member and a membership fee), but smoking cannabis on the street is prohibited in Spain and public use can result in a fine.

• Thailand: In 2022, Thailand became the first Asian country to decriminalize cannabis. Since the ban was lifted, cannabis shops, cafés and bars have mushroomed across the country — from Bangkok to tourist hotspots, cannabis products, edibles, beverages and dried flower are widely available. According to the law, only low-THC “industrial hemp” is permitted for sale, but enforcement is lax, so in practice, anyone can freely buy and consume cannabis in Thailand. However, it's important to note that public consumption remains illegal and bringing cannabis into or out of the country is strictly prohibited.

• Canada: In October 2018, Canada became the second country in the world to fully legalize recreational cannabis nationwide. Since then, adults aged 18 or 19 and over (depending on the province) — including tourists — can legally purchase and consume cannabis, provided they follow the specific regulations of each province. Cannabis in Canada is sold in government-licensed stores (dispensaries) and consumption is typically allowed on private property or in designated areas. One crucial restriction: it is strictly forbidden to cross international borders with cannabis, even if you are traveling to another country where cannabis is also legal.

• USA (individual states): In the United States, cannabis remains illegal at the federal level, but by 2025, 24 states have legalized its recreational use. Popular destinations such as California (e.g., Los Angeles, San Francisco), Colorado (Denver), Nevada (Las Vegas), Oregon (Portland) and Massachusetts (Boston) all operate legal cannabis markets. In these states, tourists can purchase cannabis in dispensaries and possess permitted amounts just like local residents. However, each state has its own rules regarding public consumption and possession limits — so it is important to check local regulations before traveling. Additionally, transporting cannabis on airplanes or across state lines is prohibited, even between two “green states,” due to federal law.

• Uruguay: Uruguay was the first country in the world to fully legalize cannabis (in 2013). Locals can access cannabis in three ways: by growing it themselves, joining a cannabis club or purchasing government-grown cannabis at pharmacies. However, these channels are not available to tourists — only Uruguayan residents can join clubs and pharmacies do not serve customers with a foreign passport. In practice, friendly locals may offer cannabis to tourists in a casual setting, but purchasing it as a tourist is illegal (though some clubs in Montevideo discreetly sell small amounts to visitors, this is officially prohibited). Buying on the street or dealing with a seller is also against the law.

• Jamaica: Cannabis or “ganja,” has long played an important role in Jamaican culture, especially within the Rastafarian faith, but legal reform only occurred relatively recently. In 2015, possession of small amounts (up to 2 ounces, ~56 grams) was decriminalized and now only a minor fine is issued. While recreational use is not fully legal, medical cannabis was authorized and the first dispensaries began operating in 2018. Currently, tourists can legally purchase cannabis through licensed “herb houses” — medical cannabis clubs or pharmacies — where they can obtain a temporary medical permit in just a few minutes (usually requiring only a passport and a short questionnaire). At these venues (such as Kaya Herb House, Island Strains or Epican), visitors can legally buy and consume cannabis on-site. However, smoking in public places is still prohibited and can result in a fine.

• Germany and Malta: Germany joined the group of countries legalizing cannabis in 2024. The law allows for the cultivation, purchase and possession of cannabis under strict regulations. However, recreational cannabis is currently only accessible through non-profit cannabis clubs, which are open exclusively to local residents — tourists are not allowed to join. Consumption is permitted on private property and in certain public spaces, except within 100 meters of schools. Malta legalized cannabis back in 2021. Access is also through clubs, but only Maltese residents can register as members. Tourists may only partake informally, typically as guests. While the legal status in both countries is permissive, the infrastructure for cannabis tourism is still developing. It’s recommended to check the latest local rules before traveling.

Legal and semi-legal clubs, cafés, lounges

Cannabis-friendly destinations offer a variety of venues and establishments for enthusiasts – from Dutch coffeeshops and Spanish social clubs to Thai cannabis cafés. These are community spaces where consumption is allowed in a safe environment. Here’s what to expect in different regions:

 

Netherlands – Coffeeshops

Amsterdam’s famous coffeeshops, such as The Bulldog chain, have attracted cannabis tourists for decades. Most coffeeshops display a menu listing available strains and hash, with selections often including 10–15 varieties. Consumption is allowed on-site (though alcohol is not sold). Be sure to finish your joint before stepping outside – especially in the city center, where smoking on the street has been strictly prohibited since 2023 and may result in a €100 fine.

 

Spain – Cannabis Clubs

Barcelona is home to over 200 cannabis clubs and they are also common in other cities like Madrid, Valencia and the Basque Country. These clubs operate privately – no signs or shopfronts outside and entry is limited to members or their invited guests. Tourists can often register as temporary members through a local intermediary for a fee of a few dozen euros. Inside, you’ll find a welcoming, café-like atmosphere with counters, couches, music, board games – and of course, a “menu” offering quality cannabis in exchange for donations. The selection can be impressive: the Wizard Social Club in Barcelona, for example, offers 35 strains and 20 types of hash. Other notable clubs include WeFlowers, Green House, Circulo and the long-established Dragon. Remember, these are closed communities – be respectful and do not take club cannabis into public areas where it is illegal.

 

Thailand – Cannabis Cafés and Bars

In Bangkok and other tourist hubs (Pattaya, Phuket, Chiang Mai), cannabis-themed venues have rapidly opened. Examples include Highland Café in Bangkok or Oumi Organic Cafe on Ekkamai Road, which offers organic meals alongside cannabis. There are also themed locations like MD-82 Café, a lounge inside a decommissioned airplane. Most Thai cannabis cafés sell pre-rolled joints, dried flower by the gram, edibles and cannabis-infused cocktails. On-site consumption is allowed and many cafés provide bongs upon request. Note: although the vibe is relaxed, public smoking remains illegal in Thailand – keep your products inside the designated venues.

 

North America – Dispensaries and Lounges

In Canada and legal U.S. states, the main point of sale is the dispensary. These shops often resemble modern pharmacies or wine boutiques, with trained staff (budtenders) helping customers choose from a wide product selection. In large cities (Toronto, Vancouver, Los Angeles, Denver), several stores can be found within walking distance. However, consumption is typically prohibited on-site – laws generally limit use to private property. Some progressive cities now allow cannabis lounges or consumption clubs, such as in Las Vegas (since 2022), San Francisco, Oakland, Denver and New York.

 

Caribbean – Herb Houses

In Jamaica, dispensaries are often referred to as herb houses and some are full-on tourist destinations. Kaya Herb House, for example, includes an outdoor lounge where customers can enjoy their purchases. Similar venues include Island Strains and Sensi Medical. Other Caribbean nations (Aruba, Barbados, Belize, Saint Vincent) have decriminalized cannabis or permit it under medical programs. For local options, search terms like “Cannabis Café” or “420 lounge” can be helpful.

 

Tips for Safe and Responsible Cannabis Consumption

 

• Respect local laws: Always check in advance how much cannabis you can possess, where you are allowed to consume it and in what forms it is permitted.
• Don’t cross borders: Never travel across borders with cannabis. Airport security is strict.
• Avoid public places: Use designated smoking areas, private clubs or the enclosed balcony of your accommodation.
• Practice moderation and self-control: Start with a small dose and wait to see its effects. Never drive under the influence.
• Buy from trusted sources: Dispensaries and clubs provide lab-tested products. Use map-based apps (Weedmaps, Leafly, Google Maps) for guidance.
• Be eco- and health-conscious: Don’t litter, use smell-proof bags. Stay hydrated and if the effects are too strong, rest.

 

Cannabis-Friendly Accommodation

• Bud and Breakfast platform: Find hosts worldwide where cannabis use is welcome.
• Airbnb and similar rentals: Use keywords like “420 friendly” or “smoking allowed” to find suitable listings.
• Hotels and other lodging: Look for smoking rooms, smoking terraces, cannabis-friendly campgrounds and hostels (e.g., smoke rooms in Amsterdam).

 

Pre-Travel Preparation (What to Bring and What Not To)

• What you can bring: Clean grinder, rolling papers, filters, vaporizer, smell-proof bags.
• What not to pack: Cannabis, THC products, space brownies, dirty pipes. If you must bring devices, clean them thoroughly.
• Packaging and storage: Airtight container or zip bag, humidity regulator for long trips, store in a car trunk or in carry-on luggage on planes.
• Other useful items: Eye drops, mosquito repellent, chewing gum, mints, extra vaporizer filters.

 

Special Cannabis Experiences, Events and Tours

 

• Cannabis festivals and expos: Spannabis Expo (Barcelona, March), Cannafest (Prague, autumn), Mary Jane Berlin Expo (summer), High Times Cannabis Cup (Amsterdam, July), Mile High 420 Festival (Denver, April 20), Seattle Hempfest (August), Stepping High Festival (Jamaica).
• Sightseeing and tours with a “high” twist: Coffeeshop tours in Amsterdam, club and tapas tours in Barcelona, wine and weed tours in Sonoma/Napa, cannabis farm visits in Colombia, Bob Marley Nine Mile tour in Jamaica.
• Cannabis museums and cultural centers: Hash, Marihuana & Hemp Museum (Amsterdam, Barcelona), Cannabis Museum (Montevideo), Cannabis attractions in Las Vegas.
• Educational and wellness programs: Oaksterdam University (Oakland) courses, cooking classes, mini workshops in Dutch grow shops, CBD yoga, cannabis oil massages in Thailand.

• Local holidays and 4/20 events: London Hyde Park, Prague Kampa Park, Berlin Mary Jane, Vancouver Sunset Beach, Global Marijuana March (first Saturday in May).

The world-famous cannabis museums in Amsterdam and Barcelona offer insight into the cultural and historical role of hemp.
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