Cannabis tourism – sometimes called weed tourism or 420 travel – is a rising trend that blends traditional travel with cannabis culture, offering experiences from relaxed smoke-friendly accommodations to high-end cannabis farm tours.
Much of this boom in cannabis tourism can be attributed to increasing legalisation. In 2024, Minnesota and Ohio legalised recreational cannabis, bringing the total number of U.S. states with legal weed to 24. Across the Atlantic, Germany followed suit, signaling that the wave of legalisation is spreading internationally.
Another major contributor is shifting perceptions around cannabis. As social stigma fades, more travelers are seeking out destinations and activities that align with their love for the plant. Businesses are responding in kind: platforms like Bud and Breakfast cater to travelers seeking 420-friendly accommodations, while companies like HigherWayTravel offer all-inclusive cannabis retreats in locations like Colombia and Jamaica.
In fact, cannabis tourism is particularly appealing to younger travelers. Surveys show that 50% of millennials consider access to cannabis when choosing a destination. Even 23% of Gen X and 14% of Boomers have joined a cannabis tour while on vacation.
Is Weed Legal for Tourists? What To Know In 2025
Understanding international cannabis laws is essential. For example, what is legal in Canada can land you behind bars in the UAE. Moreover, some countries have differing laws for residents and tourists. Uruguay, for example, allows locals to purchase cannabis legally, but not tourists.
Knowing the difference between legalisation and decriminalisation is also key:
- Legalisation means cannabis can be legally bought, sold, grown, and used.
- Decriminalisation means possession is not a criminal offense but may still come with fines or restrictions on purchasing and cultivation.
Top Cannabis-Friendly Countries To Visit In 2025
Some of the best cannabis-friendly countries to add to your travel list include:
- Canada
- United States
- Germany
- Spain
- The Netherlands
- Malta
- Italy
- Uruguay
- Columbia
- Thailand
Canada
Canada legalised recreational cannabis in 2018, making it one of the most welcoming countries for cannabis tourists. Adults (18 or 19+, depending on province) can purchase cannabis from licensed dispensaries and consume it in private residences or designated public spaces.
Highlights
- Legal nationwide
- Cannabis lounges and weed-infused culinary tours
- No legal difference between tourists and residents
- Important note: It is illegal to carry cannabis across borders – even to other legal countries.
United States
While cannabis remains federally illegal, 24 states have legalised recreational use. Tourists can purchase and consume cannabis in these states, but laws vary.
Top Destinations
- California: Home to the Emerald Triangle and LA’s vibrant dispensary scene
- Colorado: Famous for its dispensaries, cannabis lounges, and mountain weed retreats
- Nevada: Offers legal weed and cannabis events right off the Las Vegas Strip
- Travel tip: Never fly with cannabis or carry it across state lines – even between legal states.
Germany
As of 2024, Germany legalised cannabis for personal use. Tourists can possess and consume cannabis in designated areas but cannot buy it through cannabis clubs, which are limited to residents.
Good to know: Smoking is banned within 100 meters of schools, playgrounds, and public sports areas.
Spain
Cannabis is decriminalised for personal use in private spaces. Cannabis clubs exist in legal grey areas and often accept tourists, although they are technically for locals.
Highlights
- Barcelona is a hotspot for cannabis tourism
- Many clubs offer relaxed, café-style environments
- Public consumption is illegal and punishable by fines
The Netherlands
Often synonymous with cannabis tourism, the Netherlands offers one of Europe’s most established weed cultures. While technically not legal, cannabis is tolerated in licensed coffee shops.
Tourist Favorites
- Amsterdam’s coffeeshops
- Cannabis museums and boat tours
- Cannabis-friendly hostels
Heads up: The city of Amsterdam is cracking down on public cannabis use in the Red Light District, so be discreet.
Malta
Europe’s first country to legalise recreational cannabis in 2021. However, only residents can legally purchase through cannabis clubs.
Tourist experience: Limited. You will need to make friends with locals if you hope to toke legally.
Italy
Cannabis is decriminalised for personal use, but recreational weed is still illegal. “Cannabis light” shops sell low-THC hemp flower and related products.
New Development (2025)
Italy’s “Sicurezza Decree” now prohibits the sale and marketing of hemp flowers, including CBD-rich products, raising concerns over compliance with EU regulations.
Uruguay
The world’s first country to legalise cannabis. However, only residents can legally purchase it via pharmacies or grow at home.
Tip for tourists: Friendly locals may share, but buying weed on the street is still illegal.
Colombia
Possession of up to 20 grams and the cultivation of 20 plants is decriminalised. Medical cannabis is legal, and cannabis tours take tourists through farms and shops.
Best Cannabis Tourism Experiences
- Medicinal farm tours
- CBD wellness spas
- Cannabis-themed events in Medellín and Bogotá
Thailand
Thailand shocked the world by decriminalising cannabis in 2022. Cannabis cafes, dispensaries, and infused eateries have since flourished, especially in tourist areas like Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
What Is Allowed
- Tourists can buy cannabis easily
- Many dispensaries sell flower and infused products
What Is Not Allowed
- Public smoking is illegal
- Importing or exporting cannabis is a criminal offense
Countries To Avoid For Cannabis Tourists
Despite global progress, many countries still impose severe penalties for cannabis possession.
Do NOT travel with cannabis to:
- Singapore: Possession = 10 years in prison or death for trafficking
- UAE: Even trace THC = jail time
- Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines: Long sentences or death for trafficking
- Japan, South Korea, China: Very strict drug laws with harsh penalties
Always research a country’s cannabis laws before you travel.
Types Of Cannabis Experiences For Tourists
As cannabis tourism evolves, a wide array of unique experiences awaits. Here are some must-try activities for cannabis-curious travelers:
- Relaxation & wellness: Cannabis spas: Infused massages, CBD treatments, and cannabis hot springs
- Where to try it: Thailand, California, Jamaica
- Culinary cannabis tourism: Infused dining: From 5-star THC tasting menus to casual edibles cafés
- Top locations: LA, Amsterdam, Barcelona
- Cannabis tours: Farm visits: Emerald Triangle (CA), Colombia medicinal farms
- Dispensary crawls: Vegas, Denver, Portland
- Cannabis-friendly lodging: Bud & Breakfast: The cannabis-friendly version of Airbnb
- Unique stays: Treehouses, weed retreats, beachside bungalows
Travel Tiers: Best Countries By Legal Access
- Fully legal (buy, possess, and consume):
- Canada
- U.S. states with recreational laws (e.g., California, Nevada, Oregon)
- Decriminalised but accessible:
- Spain
- Netherlands
- Thailand
- Legal, but limited for tourists:
- Germany
- Malta
- Uruguay
- Colombia
- Italy
- High-risk, avoid travel with cannabis:
- Singapore
- UAE
- Japan
- Malaysia
- South Korea
- Indonesia
Cannabis tourism is more than just a passing trend – it is a global movement reshaping the way people travel. As legalisation and destigmatisation spread, more countries are opening their doors to cannabis-curious travelers eager to explore, relax, and experience local cannabis culture.
Whether you want to tour a cannabis farm in California, light up in a Barcelona club, or indulge in a Thai cannabis spa, 2025 is shaping up to be the year to take your travel plans to new highs – literally.
Just remember: Respect local laws, consume responsibly, and always travel informed.
