What Are The Best Countries For Cannabis Tourism?
Cannabis tourism has exploded in recent years. As more countries embrace legalisation or decriminalisation, travellers are seeking destinations where they can explore cannabis culture safely and legally. Whether you’re into luxurious cannabis lounges, scenic farm tours, or just kicking back on a beach with a joint, the world is getting greener and more welcoming, every year. Here’s our list of the Top 5 countries for cannabis tourism, plus a few honourable mentions you'll definitely want on your radar.
Before we get into it, let’s go over some general tips for the responsible tourist:
- Respect the culture and know the laws – Cannabis may be tolerated, but not always openly celebrated. Even in legal countries, possession and public use may still be restricted.
- Travel smart – Never cross borders with cannabis, even between two legal countries.
- Explore beyond cannabis – The BEST trips combine cannabis with local food, museums, art, and nature. Talk to locals, hear their stories, soak up the culture and atmosphere, and enjoy the weather!
5. Canada 🇨🇦
Canada has quickly become one of the world’s great cannabis tourism hotspots. Since legalising recreational cannabis nationwide in 2018, the country has built a reputation for its open, regulated, and tourist-friendly approach. Unlike the United States, where laws change from state to state, Canada has a single federal framework, which makes things much simpler for travellers. Dispensaries can be found in every major city, stocked and clearly labelled with everything from premium flower to concentrates, edibles and pre-rolls. For cannabis tourists, the experience feels smooth, straightforward, safe, and professional. In cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, dispensaries double as cultural spaces, with stylish interiors, knowledgeable staff, and a growing number of cannabis-friendly events and lounges. In Ontario and Quebec, government-run outlets dominate the market, while in British Columbia and Alberta, you’ll find a mix of independent shops and big-name brands. For many travellers, part of the fun is simply comparing the different provincial styles and seeing how cannabis culture shifts from coast to coast.
At the same time, cannabis tourism in Canada ties naturally into the country’s reputation for the outdoors. While rules around consumption in certain public spaces vary, many visitors combine cannabis with classic Canadian experiences - hiking in the Rockies, road-tripping through British Columbia, or relaxing by one of Ontario’s thousands of lakes. The breathtaking scenery is such an integral part of Canadian tourism that it naturally becomes part of the cannabis journey too, offering travellers moments of calm, creativity, and connection in some of the world’s most stunning landscapes. What makes Canada stand out is that it offers both sides of the cannabis travel coin: modern, urban dispensary culture in vibrant cities, and a chance to experience cannabis alongside the breathtaking wilderness the country is famous for. For many tourists, that balance is what makes Canada one of the most exciting destinations on the global cannabis tourism map.
Travel Tip: Don’t assume you can light up anywhere just because cannabis is legal nationwide. There are still rules on where you can and cannot consume - some provinces treat it like tobacco, others ban it in parks, beaches, or busy streets. Always check local bylaws before sparking up, or risk a fine that could sour your trip.
4. Spain 🇪🇸
Spain has quietly become one of Europe’s most popular cannabis tourism hotspots, thanks to its unique model of cannabis social clubs. While cannabis is not technically legal in Spain, the law allows for private, non-profit associations where members can consume and even cultivate limited amounts of cannabis. These clubs, particularly in Barcelona, offer a discreet but vibrant community experience for cannabis enthusiasts.
Unlike coffee shops in the Netherlands, Spanish cannabis clubs are strictly membership-based. You’ll usually need a local contact or an online invitation to join, and a small membership fee is standard. Once inside, you can choose from a wide range of flower, hash, edibles, and concentrates, either produced locally or imported. The atmosphere is usually relaxed and social, more like a lounge or cultural hub than a bar. Outside the clubs, Spain also offers the perfect backdrop for a cannabis holiday. Barcelona’s beaches, Gaudí’s architecture, and buzzing nightlife pair well with the laid-back cannabis culture. On the other side of the country, the Basque Country and Valencia also have thriving club scenes, though on a smaller scale. Spain is also home to Spannabis, the world’s largest cannabis expo, usually held in Barcelona. It attracts growers, activists, and enthusiasts from across the globe. However, March 2025 marked the final edition of Spannabis held in Barcelona, closing a chapter that had lasted for over two decades. Looking ahead, Spannabis is set to relocate to the Bilbao Exhibition Centre in the Basque Country starting in 2026 – undoubtedly a large blow to Barcelona’s thriving social clubs. Without the annual influx of cannabis tourists, industry professionals, and supportive visibility that Spannabis brought, social clubs now face intensified scrutiny and pressure from city authorities.
Despite the end of Spannabis in Barcelona and the recent pressures facing the city’s cannabis social clubs, Spain remains one of the most attractive cannabis tourism destinations in the world. The country boasts a unique social club model unlike anywhere else in Europe, and Barcelona still continues to draw international visitors who want to experience its relaxed cannabis culture alongside its food, beaches, and nightlife. Meanwhile, the move of Spannabis to Bilbao may actually broaden Spain’s cannabis map, spotlighting the Basque Country’s emerging cannabis scene. Coupled with Spain’s world-class culture, Mediterranean climate, and thriving underground cannabis creativity, the country continues to hold a special place for cannabis tourists.
For travellers who want more than just consumption, Spain also offers a blend of art, architecture, gastronomy, and cannabis culture that few destinations can match. In short: even with challenges, Spain isn’t losing its crown, it’s evolving.
Travel tip: If you’re planning to visit Barcelona or any other Spanish city for its cannabis social clubs, make sure to research membership fees, and choose and contact your clubs in advance. Most clubs charge a one-time membership fee (usually around €20), and each club has its own menu pricing. If you join multiple clubs, the sign-up costs can add up quickly. Planning ahead, deciding which clubs to prioritise and budgeting your daily spend will help you make the most of your visit without burning through your funds.
3. Thailand 🇹🇭
Thailand made global headlines in 2022 when it became the first country in Asia to decriminalise cannabis. Overnight, it transformed from a nation with strict anti-drug laws to one of the most talked-about cannabis destinations in the world. You could find dispensaries and cannabis cafés now lining the streets of Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and tourist hubs like Phuket, Pattaya, and Koh Samui. The cannabis culture blended seamlessly with Thailand’s laid-back lifestyle - think beachside joints at sunset, cannabis-infused smoothies, and wellness retreats that mix yoga, massage, and relaxation. Tourists could even join farm tours or attend 420-themed events, especially in Chiang Mai’s creative community.
However, in 2025, the government made a sharp U-turn. Recreational use was rolled back, cannabis buds were reclassified as a controlled herb, and new laws required a medical prescription to purchase legally. Dispensaries that had flourished for years suddenly faced closure, and consumers who once enjoyed cannabis freely now risk fines, prison time, or at the very least, confusing encounters with inconsistent rules. This sudden reversal is a stark reminder of how fragile cannabis reform can be when politics shift.
That being said, Thailand’s cannabis scene is FAR from fading. Dispensaries continue to serve locals and tourists under the medical framework, and the country’s reputation for hospitality ensures that visitors can still enjoy safe and memorable cannabis experiences. Cannabis has already become an integral part of Thailand’s cultural fabric. For travellers who plan ahead and stay mindful of the rules, the country remains a vibrant place to explore cannabis in unique and exciting ways. Thailand’s climate, farming heritage, and world-renowned wellness tourism industry continue to make it a natural fit for a flourishing cannabis culture. Even under the new laws, you’ll find a thriving community of growers, dispensaries, and events that showcase just how strong the scene has become. Pair that with Thailand’s magnificent nature and beaches, incredible, yet cheap food, festivals, and wellness retreats, and you have a destination that still offers some of the most memorable cannabis tourism experiences in the world. Far from fading, Thailand’s cannabis journey is evolving - and for curious travellers, it’s still one of the most exciting places to visit. Furthermore, we’re hopeful that lawmakers will eventually reconsider their stance, taking into account the huge economic opportunities, jobs, and tourism revenue that legal cannabis generates. Thailand is perfect for travellers who want to blend relaxation, culture, and cannabis in one unforgettable trip. Even with the government’s rollback on legislation, Thailand is still brimming with untapped potential and remains a prime canna-tourism hotspot.
Travel Tip: Cannabis laws in Thailand have shifted quickly, so always check the latest rules before your trip. While dispensaries still thrive, recreational use has been tightened and medical prescriptions are technically required. With a bit of planning, you’ll still find plenty of ways to enjoy Thailand’s vibrant cannabis culture. Moreover, Thailand is tropical and hot year-round, but the seasons make a big difference to your trip. The dry season (November–February) is the most comfortable and popular for travellers, while the rainy season (May–October) can bring heavy downpours - though it also means fewer crowds and lower prices. Plan your travel dates with the weather in mind so you can enjoy the beaches, islands, and outdoor adventures at their best.
2. Netherlands 🇳🇱
When people think of cannabis tourism, The Netherlands, and more specifically Amsterdam, is the place that usually comes to mind. The country has been a trailblazer in cannabis culture since 1976, thanks to its iconic ‘coffee shop’ model, where visitors can purchase and consume cannabis products in a relaxed, social setting. For many British stoners, lighting up in a historic Amsterdam coffee shop is a rite of passage. Amsterdam itself remains the beating heart of The Netherlands’ cannabis tourism, offering an unmatched mix of charming canals, buzzing nightlife, and world-famous coffee shops. But beyond the capital, other Dutch cities like Rotterdam, The Hague, Utrecht, and Eindhoven also have lively coffee shop cultures well worth exploring, often with more reasonable pricing and a more local, less touristy vibe. The Netherlands is one of the easiest countries in Europe to travel around, thanks to its excellent public transport network of trains, trams, buses, and cycling routes, all of which are efficient, reliable, and well-connected across cities and regions.
The Dutch are also at the forefront of experimenting with a regulated supply chain. The government has begun pilot programs to allow licensed growers to legally supply coffee shops, aiming to replace the “backdoor problem” where shops could sell cannabis but had no legal way to source it. This evolving legal framework shows that The Netherlands isn’t just resting on its reputation but continues to shape the global conversation around cannabis policy. For travellers, the draw is not only cannabis itself but the culture surrounding it: canal cruises, cycling tours, art museums, and festivals. Cannabis blends seamlessly into the Dutch lifestyle, which values tolerance, pragmatism, and social freedom.
Furthermore, the days when Dutch coffee shops revolved almost entirely around Haze, White Widow, and a handful of classic strains are long gone. In recent years, menus have expanded dramatically, reflecting global cannabis trends and rising consumer demand. Today, many coffee shops in Amsterdam and beyond boast California-grown flower, showcasing famous strains from the best growers in the world, sitting proudly alongside traditional local Dutch favourites. It’s not just the flower that’s evolved. Coffee shops are increasingly offering a wider selection of products, including concentrates, premium hash, solvent-less rosin and more, highlighting both old-school craftsmanship and new, modern extraction techniques. This shift has elevated the coffee shop experience, making it more diverse and appealing to both seasoned cannabis connoisseurs and curious first-time visitors. For travellers, this evolution means that visiting a Dutch coffee shop is no longer just about ticking off a bucket-list experience - it’s a chance to explore a world-class cannabis menu that blends the best of old and new, European tradition and Californian innovation.
Travel Tip: Try walking as much as possible. Dutch cities are compact and incredibly walkable, with most attractions, coffee shops, and neighbourhoods only a short stroll apart. Exploring on foot not only saves money but also lets you soak in the history, beautiful canals, street art, and local atmosphere at your own pace. Moreover, be mindful of local rules: public consumption is tolerated but not everywhere, and Amsterdam has recently restricted cannabis use in the Red Light District to reduce nuisance for residents.
1. USA 🇺🇸
You probably already saw it coming. No country has embraced cannabis quite like the United States. With legalisation spreading rapidly, the industry has transformed into a multi-billion-dollar powerhouse. As of 2025, twenty-four states have legalised recreational cannabis, while forty states allow some form of medical use. The sheer size of the market is staggering - the cannabis tourism sector alone is projected to reach nearly $24 billion by 2030 (Grand View Research, 2023). This patchwork of laws has created a unique travel map, with each state offering its own spin on cannabis culture. But among them all, one destination remains the undeniable leader: California.
California has always been at the heart of cannabis innovation. It was the first U.S. state to legalise medical marijuana back in 1996 and one of the early adopters of recreational sales in 2016. Today, the Golden State is home to more than 800 dispensaries, ranging from boutique shops in Los Angeles to farm-direct outlets in Humboldt County. What sets California apart is not just access but atmosphere. The state has woven cannabis into everyday lifestyle experiences: high-end dispensaries that look like Apple stores, cannabis-themed spa treatments, and guided tours that take you from seed to smoke in the famed Emerald Triangle.
The scene is expanding quickly, too. Starting in 2025, California will allow Amsterdam-style cannabis cafés where dispensaries can serve food, drinks, and host live entertainment alongside cannabis consumption (Clair, 2025). Even the California State Fair has embraced the plant, introducing a cannabis lounge and competitions where visitors can sample award-winning flower on-site. For travellers, this means cannabis isn’t just sold - it’s celebrated. San Francisco’s Grass Lands festival zone and pioneering lounges like the Barbary Coast Collective have set new standards for cannabis-friendly spaces. Oakland’s “Oaksterdam” continues to serve as a cultural hub, carrying forward the state’s activist history while welcoming curious visitors.
Of course, California isn’t the only cannabis hotspot worth exploring. Colorado, the first state to legalise recreational cannabis back in 2012, turned Denver into a cannabis tourism capital, offering everything from cooking classes to “bud and breakfast” accommodations. Nevada has taken a different approach, building on its reputation for nightlife and entertainment. Las Vegas recently opened its first cannabis consumption lounges, with nearly twenty more expected, creating social spaces for tourists who can’t consume in hotels. Meanwhile, Portland, Oregon, has carved out a reputation for progressive, youth-driven cannabis culture, pairing dispensaries with art, food, and wellness retreats. Together, these states have reshaped what cannabis tourism looks like. The U.S. now offers something for every kind of traveller, from the casual user seeking a chill dispensary stop to the enthusiast looking for immersive cultural experiences. Whether it’s lighting up on Venice Beach, sampling Humboldt’s finest, joining a cannabis cooking class in Denver, or exploring Vegas’ new lounges, the United States remains the number one destination for anyone looking to combine travel with cannabis culture.
What elevates the U.S. above almost anywhere else is the range of curated experiences layered onto that freedom to roam: farm tours, cannabis-friendly lounges and events, chef-led infused dinners, cooking classes, purpose-built consumption venues… the list goes on. You can build a trip around classic American travel experiences - road tripping scenic highways, exploring vibrant cities, or discovering hidden small towns, flavour-chasing legendary, world-famous strains at their source, or go deep on cultivation history - pivot the next day to beaches, hiking, nightlife, national monuments, sports, or Michelin-star dining. Few destinations offer that level of variety with this level of quality and scale. If “see more, do more” is your travel style, the USA is the ultimate cannabis road playground.
Travel tip: One of the most important things to remember when exploring cannabis tourism in the United States is that every state has its own set of rules. What’s perfectly legal in one state could land you in trouble in another if you don’t pay attention. Possession limits, purchase caps, consumption rules, and even packaging requirements all vary, and local police do enforce them. The best advice for any cannabis tourist in the U.S. is to just be aware of the rules: always double-check the laws in the state you’re visiting and never assume that what applies in one place carries over to the next.
Honourable mentions, in no particular order:
Germany 🇩🇪 : Germany is becoming one of the most important cannabis reform stories in Europe. The country is rolling out social clubs where members can grow and share cannabis, plus plans for regional pilot projects selling cannabis in regulated shops. Germany’s reputation for precision, quality, and efficiency is likely to carry over into its cannabis sector. Expect high standards in cultivation, a strong emphasis on consumer education, and eventually, once retail sales are piloted, some of the most consistent, lab-tested products in Europe. It is perfect for early adopters who want to witness the birth of a new cannabis culture in the heart of Europe, with easy access to surrounding countries for a multi-stop trip.
South Africa 🇿🇦 : South Africa is an emerging hotspot for cannabis tourism, driven by a 2018 court ruling that decriminalised private use and cultivation. While you can’t yet buy cannabis in dispensaries, private membership clubs and cannabis-infused retreats are filling the gap. The country is also home to the legendary Durban Poison, a landrace sativa celebrated worldwide. What makes South Africa unique is the chance to pair cannabis with safaris, beaches, wine country, and cultural experiences, creating a travel offering that’s as diverse as the country itself and, importantly, poised for rapid growth.
Jamaica 🇯🇲 : Jamaica has long been linked to cannabis through its Rastafarian culture and global influence on music and lifestyle. While cannabis was only decriminalised in 2015, possession of small amounts for personal use is tolerated, and tourists can apply for permits to purchase from licensed dispensaries. The island is home to iconic landrace strains like Lamb’s Bread, famously associated with Bob Marley. Beyond its cultural legacy, Jamaica offers cannabis farm tours, wellness retreats, and laid-back beachside experiences that pair perfectly with its tropical setting. Cannabis is not just an activity here - it’s part of the island’s identity and spirit.
Mexico 🇲🇽 : Mexico is quickly stepping onto the cannabis tourism stage, with the Supreme Court decriminalising personal use in 2021 and the government working toward full regulation. Although a nationwide retail system is still developing, possession and private use are legal, and cannabis culture is thriving in cities like Mexico City, Oaxaca, and Cancún. The country’s warm climate and rich agricultural tradition make it well-suited for cultivation. For travellers, cannabis blends naturally with Mexico’s vibrant street life, beaches, and cultural history, offering a relaxed and colourful setting for a cannabis-infused holiday.
Colombia 🇨🇴 : Medical cannabis has been legal in Colombia since 2016, and while recreational use remains technically decriminalised rather than fully regulated, the culture is vibrant and growing. The country’s diverse climates are ideal for cultivation, and Colombian landrace strains like Colombian Gold are legendary among enthusiasts. Tourists in cities such as Bogotá and Medellín can find cannabis-friendly tours, cultural experiences, and nightlife that embraces the plant. Combined with Colombia’s stunning landscapes and rich heritage, cannabis tourism here feels both authentic and exciting.
Uruguay 🇺🇾 : In 2013, Uruguay made history as the first country in the world to fully legalise cannabis, setting a global precedent for regulation. Locals can purchase cannabis through pharmacies, grow at home, or join cooperatives. Although the law reserves legal purchases for residents, visitors often find that cannabis is still accessible through social connections, private clubs, or the relaxed attitude toward sharing. In practice, it isn’t difficult for tourists to experience Uruguay’s cannabis culture. Visitors can experience the culture through cannabis-friendly events, private clubs, and a tolerant social attitude toward consumption. Montevideo and coastal towns like Punta del Este offer a laid-back setting where cannabis blends naturally with café culture and beach life. Uruguay remains a pioneer, proving how a small nation can reshape global cannabis policy.
@TheHighestStreet
References:
Clair, K. S., 2025. California to launch Amsterdam-style cannabis cafés, blending weed and coffee culture. [Online]
Available at: https://localnewsmatters.org/2025/01/03/california-to-launch-amsterdam-style-cannabis-cafes-blending-weed-and-coffee-culture/
Grand View Research, 2023. Cannabis Tourism Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Age Group (18 to 24, 25 to 44, 45 years+), By Distribution Channel (Privately Owned, Government-owned, Grocery/Supermarket, Pharmacies), By Country, And Segment Forecasts, 2024 - 2030. [Online]
Available at: https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/cannabis-tourism-market-report