Buying Weed in Maastricht, Netherlands: The Complete 2025 Guide

If you’re planning a trip to the Netherlands, you’ve probably heard of Amsterdam’s coffeeshops — but what about Maastricht? This southern Dutch city is a gem on the border of Belgium and Germany, attracting thousands of cannabis tourists every year. But here’s the catch: buying weed in Maastricht comes with special rules that make it different from Amsterdam.

This guide covers everything you need to know about buying weed in Maastricht, Netherlands — from the local laws and coffeeshop policies to the best spots, slang, red flags, and stoner-friendly hostels.

---

Cannabis Laws in Maastricht

The Netherlands has a unique “tolerance policy” (gedoogbeleid) for cannabis:

• Recreational use – Cannabis is technically illegal, but tolerated in licensed coffeeshops.
• Personal possession – You can carry up to 5 grams of cannabis without legal consequences. More than that can lead to confiscation and possible fines.
• Coffeeshop purchases – You can buy up to 5 grams per day per person.

Maastricht’s Special Restriction: The “Weed Pass” Rule

Unlike Amsterdam, Maastricht enforces the “wietpas” (weed pass). This means:

• Only Dutch residents with a valid ID or proof of residence can buy weed in coffeeshops.
• Tourists (especially from Belgium, Germany, and France) are technically not allowed to buy cannabis here.

Takeaway: If you’re not a Dutch resident, buying weed in Maastricht coffeeshops is tricky. Many tourists instead go to Amsterdam, Tilburg, or Nijmegen where enforcement is looser.

---

Where to Buy Weed in Maastricht

Even with restrictions, cannabis is available — both legally (for locals) and in the gray zone.

1. Coffeeshops (for locals & residents)

If you have Dutch residency, you can visit any of Maastricht’s coffeeshops. Some of the most well-known include:

• Coffeeshop Smokey – Popular with locals, central location.
• Coffeeshop Club 69 – Iconic shop with a solid menu.
• Coffeeshop Kosbor – Known for good hash and flower selection.
• Maxcy’s Coffeeshop – Friendly staff, welcoming vibe.

2. Street Dealers (for tourists)

Because of the weed pass, street dealing exists. But be cautious:

• Dealers operate around Vrijthof Square, train station, and Wyck district.
• Weed quality is hit-or-miss, and scams (like fake weed or underweight bags) are common.

3. Cross-Border Cannabis Tourism

Many tourists stay in Maastricht but buy their weed in nearby cities where the weed pass isn’t enforced as strictly:

• Sittard, Heerlen, and Roermond (Dutch towns close by)
• Or even travel up to Amsterdam for a few days.

---

Weed Slang in Maastricht & the Netherlands

Knowing the local slang helps:

• Wiet – Weed/cannabis
• Hasj – Hashish (very popular in the Netherlands)
• Blowen – Smoking weed
• Jointje – A joint
• Spacecake – Weed brownie/cake (edibles sold in coffeeshops)
• Gras – Another word for weed

If you hear locals talk about “blowen”, they’re talking about smoking a joint.

---

Red Flags When Buying Weed in Maastricht

Since tourists face restrictions, scams and risks exist:

• Fake weed dealers – Around the train station, some dealers sell herbs sprayed with chemicals.
• Police checks – Maastricht police are stricter than in Amsterdam. Don’t carry more than 5g.
• Street pricing – Expect to pay €12–20 per gram from street sellers (vs €8–12 in coffeeshops).
• Tourist-targeted scams – Some people sell oregano or very low-quality hash.

Pro tip: If you’re not a Dutch resident, consider traveling to another Dutch city where you can buy in coffeeshops freely.

---

Stoner-Friendly Hostels & Accommodation in Maastricht

Smoking inside hostels is generally not allowed, but some are more relaxed than others:

1. Stayokay Maastricht – Riverside hostel with social vibes. No smoking indoors, but outdoor areas are fine.
2. The Green Elephant Hostel – Eco-friendly hostel, trendy, and popular with young travelers.
3. Botel Maastricht – Budget-friendly boat hostel; balconies and decks make for discreet smoke spots.
4. Airbnb with Balconies or Gardens – Best option if you want more privacy for smoking.

---

Cannabis Culture in Maastricht

Despite restrictions, Maastricht remains a cannabis hotspot because:

• Its location near Belgium and Germany makes it a natural cannabis gateway.
• Local students often have connections for both weed and hash.
• Hash is almost as popular as flower here — Moroccan, Afghan, and Dutch hash varieties are common.

Culturally, Maastricht has a chill vibe, but far less tolerant of open tourist smoking than Amsterdam. You won’t see people blazing in the streets.

---

Traveler Tips for Buying Weed in Maastricht

• If you’re a tourist – Be aware: coffeeshops likely won’t sell to you. Plan accordingly.
• Carry small amounts – Stick to under 5g.
• Smoke discreetly – Hotels, hostels, and public areas are strict. Use private balconies or parks.
• Try hash – Dutch hash quality is top-notch compared to other parts of Europe.
• Consider other cities – If buying legally is important, Amsterdam, Rotterdam, or Groningen are more tourist-friendly.

 

Final Thoughts: Buying Weed in Maastricht

Buying weed in Maastricht isn’t as easy as Amsterdam. The weed pass means only Dutch residents can legally access coffeeshops, leaving tourists with fewer options. That said, the city still has a cannabis culture fueled by students, locals, and cross-border visitors.

If you’re a Dutch resident, you’ll enjoy top-quality cannabis from coffeeshops. If you’re a tourist, you’ll either need to take your chances with street connections or plan a short trip to Amsterdam or nearby Dutch towns without strict enforcement.

Bottom line: Maastricht is beautiful and historic, but if your main goal is cannabis tourism, Amsterdam remains the top Dutch destination.