Best City Break Options For The Cannabis Curious UK Tourist In Europe

Europe has an array of very different city break options for cannabis-curious UK tourists. There are some places that are well-known for their permissive cannabis cultures, and other cities that may provide a relaxed café experience, a CBD store, nightlife, and local culture rather than using cannabis.

One important rule is always clear: do not take cannabis across borders. While countries vary regarding the treatment of cannabis laws, a place may seem to allow casual use in a particular town/city area, it will likely be treated seriously when entering the country via airport. Researching a potential cannabis-curious vacation location before traveling is always recommended; risking possible arrest is never worth the gamble.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is traditionally the go-to city for cannabis-curious travelers. Amsterdam’s coffee shop scene is perhaps the best known in the world, but there is much more to see/do in Amsterdam than simply visit a coffee shop. Amsterdam is an excellent city to spend a quick weekend getaway. Canal boat tours, museum visits (including the Rijksmuseum), food hall explorations, and vintage shopping opportunities are all available in Amsterdam.

Key to enjoying Amsterdam as a cannabis-curious traveler is to respect the local rules. Only visit licensed locations such as coffee shops. Avoid purchasing from street vendors. Always carry identification and note that Amsterdam allows the use of cannabis under certain conditions but does not have full legalization in the manner many tourists believe.

Berlin, Germany

Berlin is becoming increasingly notable as a leading cannabis culture destination in Europe due to recent changes to German cannabis law. Berlin draws particular attention among travelers interested in evolving policies toward cannabis and/or adult-use reform.

That stated, Berlin is not a wild west environment. Instead, consider Berlin as a cultural destination offering an abundance of street art, late night eating/drinking/entertainment possibilities including live music venues and gallery exhibits. Berlin presents an attractive alternative to those who seek ambience over merely novelty.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is commonly associated with cannabis social clubs; however, tourists need to exercise caution with regard to assumptions. Although Spain has a gray area surrounding the private use of cannabis/social clubs, public use/consumption of cannabis can result in fines.

Thus, for a city break experience in Barcelona, the preferred method would be to view Barcelona as a lifestyle destination: beaches/tapas/design/life after dark/public displays of cannabis use which should be viewed with caution. Be sure not to purchase any product on the street and do not perceive clubs as typical retail stores.

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon is also a viable option for cannabis-curious travelers interested in learning about drug policy as opposed to cannabis tourism. As noted above, Portugal has de facto decriminalized the possession of small amounts of drugs for personal use; however, this means that you cannot legally obtain/sell/use cannabis freely in Portugal.

The attractions of Lisbon include:

• leisurely pace;
• scenic views;
• seafood;
• historic tram rides;
• live music;
• warm nights along the river.

Thus Lisbon is an appropriate option for cannabis-curious travelers interested in exploring how different countries address their cannabis laws without assuming that they need to take unreasonable risks.

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague has been known historically to be relatively tolerant of cannabis; thus Prague is another popular destination for UK travelers because of the city’s ancient streets/beer culture and low cost weekend trips. That being said, reputation and tolerance do not equate to permission. Much of the “cannabis” product available to tourists in the older districts are typically either CBD-based or contain very low levels of THC and visitors need to be cautious not to conflate advertising with legality.

Weed Wonderland always here with you in UK

A city break focused on cannabis culture and friendly should not focus on testing limits. Rather it should be based upon selecting a destination where the culture exists openly but also clearly understands the local rules and allows your trip to be enjoyable regardless of whether you decide to try something new.

Always know current local laws prior to flying into your destination and never transport cannabis across international borders. Also, never assume that you can rely on UK laws — nor rumors found on-line — when traveling abroad. Once you return home, we invite you to explore Weed Wonderland for reliable and trusted access to premium quality adult-use cannabis products and discreet shopping.