Amsterdam Oude Zijd

A number of bustling coffeeshops can be found around Nieuwmarkt, but if you want better atmosphere and value, head away from the square.

Rusland, Rusland 17 (☎062 794 68), According to some, this is the oldest coffeeshop in Amsterdam. We won't take a stance on that issue, but we will say that this is definitely one of the city's better shops. Two floors inside are decorated with stenciled images of the Kremlin and other Moscow buildings, and the low ceilings combined with comfy cushion-lined seating will make you feel as cozy as you might while sitting inside on a snowy Russian day. The drug menu isn't terribly extensive, but it is complemented by an astonishing selection of teas, fresh juices, and milkshakes. Tram #4, 9, 14, 16, 24, or 25 to Muntplein. Walk up Nieuwe Doelenstraat and make a left. Weed €4-12 per g; joints €2.50-4.50; hash €3-30 per g; space muffins €5. Open daily 10am-midnight. Does not take credit cards. No wheelchair access.
Solo, Korte Koningsstraat 2 A truly simple, out-of-the-way shop that has a surprisingly good selection of smoke-ables. The store is large and hardly decorated, nothing more than a long bar, a number of tables, and some booths. About a dozen kinds of marijuana are for sale, however, including popular names like Bubblegum, Cheese, and Diesel. Varieties of both local and imported hash are available as well. Nieuwmarkt. Walk down Koningsstraat, which becomes Korte Koningsstraat. Weed €7-14 per g; joints €10, with tobacco €3.20-3.80; hash €9-25 per g; space cakes €5. 10% discount on purchases of at least 5g. Open daily 10am-midnight. Does not take credit cards. Wheelchair access.