Description
Ah, Amnesia. The name alone brings to mind hazy nights and foggy memories. This isn’t your average coffeeshop. Set along the Herengracht in Amsterdam’s Centrum, Amnesia has become one of the city’s best-loved places to settle in with a smoke.
I’ve visited my fair share of Amsterdam coffeeshops over the years, but there’s something about Amnesia that keeps drawing me back. Maybe it’s the cozy, laid-back feel, or the quality of the bud. Or perhaps it’s simply the fun of getting baked in a 17th-century canal house. Whatever the reason, this place has a certain pull.
Inside, you’ll find warm wood paneling, comfy seats and that unmistakable aroma of cannabis. The budtenders are friendly and know their stuff, so they can help you find a strain that suits your mood. The menu’s packed with weed, hash, pre-rolls and edibles, too.
But Amnesia’s not only about getting high, though it does that well. It’s the whole experience: sit outside with a joint and watch the canal traffic, or get chatting with travelers from all over. That particular Amsterdam atmosphere is part of the appeal.
Key Features
Here are a few of the things Amnesia does well:
1. Prime Location: Right on the Herengracht, it’s a classic Amsterdam spot for a smoke. The canal views are lovely, especially from an outdoor table.
2. Top-Shelf Product: The menu is extensive and changes regularly, with classic Dutch strains alongside imports. The hash selection has a particularly strong reputation.
3. Chill Vibes: Even when it’s popular, Amnesia tends to keep a relaxed, welcoming feel. You can settle in for a while without feeling hurried.
4. Knowledgeable Staff: The budtenders know their stuff. Whether you’re an experienced smoker or a first-timer, they’ll help you choose.
5. Outdoor Seating: When the weather cooperates, the canal-side terrace is a treat. There’s not much better than sitting outside as the boats pass by.
6. Diverse Clientele: Locals and visitors both come through, which makes it an easy place to meet fellow travelers and swap stories.
7. Edibles: If you’d rather have your cannabis in food form, Amnesia offers space cakes and other infused treats. Start low and go slow.
8. Non-Smoking Areas: If you’d rather avoid secondhand smoke, designated areas offer a place to sit without it getting too smoky.
9. Music Selection: The music makes a good backdrop for a relaxed stop in the city.
10. Accepts Cards: Many coffeeshops are cash-only, so Amnesia’s acceptance of debit cards is handy.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit depends on the kind of experience you’re after. Here’s how it tends to feel at different times of day, based on my many (sometimes hazy) visits:
Mornings (10am – 12pm): If you’re up early for a wake-and-bake, this is a good window. The shop’s usually quieter, so you can take your time looking over the menu. There’s something lovely about starting the day with a joint and a canal view.
Afternoons (12pm – 4pm): Things start to pick up, with locals on lunch breaks and tourists making their coffeeshop rounds. It’s a nice time to people-watch or chat with other customers.
Early Evenings (4pm – 8pm): The after-work crowd starts to arrive, and the atmosphere gets livelier. If you’re hoping to socialize and catch some of the city’s evening energy, this is a good time to go.
Late Nights (8pm – 1am): Things tend to mellow as the night goes on, which suits a quiet stop after a day of sightseeing. The kitchen usually closes earlier, though, so don’t leave it too late if you’re planning to eat.
Weekends: Expect it to be busy for much of the day. The atmosphere can be lively, but you may have to wait for a table.
Summer’s the obvious choice if you want to enjoy the outdoor seating. Personally, I like Amnesia in the fall, when it’s cozy inside and the leaves along the canal start to turn.
If you’re hoping for one of those coveted canal-side seats, try arriving just before or after the lunch rush. A little luck doesn’t hurt, either.
How to Get There
Amnesia is at Herengracht 133, in Amsterdam’s Centrum. Getting there is straightforward, though the canal streets can take a bit of getting used to, especially if you’re already a little. .. elevated.
By Foot: If you’re staying in the center, walking is the easiest way to get there. It’s about a 15-minute stroll from Dam Square. Head down Damstraat, turn left onto Oudezijds Voorburgwal, then right onto Herengracht. An offline map can be handy; those canal streets are easy to muddle up.
By Bike: Feeling brave (or Dutch)? Rent a bike and pedal over. Amsterdam’s bike lanes are no joke, though, so if you’re not confident on two wheels, leave the cycling for another time.
By Tram: The closest tram stop is Koningsplein, served by lines 2 and 12. From there, it’s a short five-minute walk to Amnesia. Head east on Herengracht and you’ll find it.
By Metro: Rokin is the nearest metro station, served by lines 52 and 54. It’s about a 10-minute walk from there to Amnesia.
By Uber/Taxi: You can also take an Uber or taxi, though traffic on the narrow canal streets can slow things down.
Water Taxi: For a memorable arrival, consider taking a water taxi along the canals. It costs more, but you’re on holiday, right?
Amsterdam’s layout can be a little. .. challenging, especially if you’ve already partaken in some of the local greenery. Don’t be shy about asking for directions. Amsterdammers are generally friendly and used to lost visitors. You might even meet a fellow smoker along the way.
Tips for Visiting
Alright, fellow cannabis enthusiasts, gather ’round. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your visit to Amnesia:
1. Pace Yourself: Start low and go slow. You can always smoke more, but you can’t un-smoke what you’ve already puffed.
2. Try Something New: You might have a go-to strain back home, but you’re in Amsterdam. Ask the budtender for a recommendation; they know their stuff.
3. Bring Cash: Amnesia accepts cards, but it’s still handy to have some cash on you. It also makes tipping easier, and tips are appreciated in coffeeshops.
4. Mind Your Manners: Keep your voice down, don’t hang on to a table if it’s busy, and please don’t try to photograph other customers without permission.
5. Stay Hydrated: Keep a bottle of water handy.
6. Snack Smart: Amnesia has some snacks, but you might want to bring your own or find out where to eat nearby.
7. Know Your Limits with Edibles: Edibles can take up to two hours to kick in. Don’t make the rookie mistake of thinking “these ain’t shit” and eating more. You’ll likely regret it.
8. Enjoy the Atmosphere: Don’t just rush in, smoke and leave. Take a little time to soak up the atmosphere, chat with fellow smokers and enjoy the Amsterdam setting.
9. Be Mindful of the Smoke: If you don’t smoke regularly, the air inside can get pretty thick. Step outside for a break if you need one.
10. Don’t Take It Outside: Smoking cannabis on the streets is illegal, so finish up before you leave.
11. Try the Hash: Amnesia is known for its quality hash. Even if you usually prefer flower, it might be worth giving it a go.
12. Ask Questions: Ask the staff for recommendations or details about different strains. There’s no need to be shy.
13. Respect the Locals: Be considerate of the people who live here.
14. Have a Plan (But Be Flexible): Some of the best Amsterdam experiences happen when you least expect them.
15. Most Importantly – Enjoy Yourself: Relax, take it all in, and make memories you’ll cherish (or struggle to remember) for years to come.
