Amsterdam, Drugs & Freedom

More Than Just Canals

Have you ever thought about Magic Mushroom tripping in Amsterdam?

Let’s be honest: not all tourists visit Amsterdam only for its canal belt, museums, or Anne Frank’s house. On the contrary, many come for the coffee shops, smart shops (mushrooms, truffles, and more), and the Red Light District.

Having lived here my whole life, I sometimes forget how unique it is to enjoy this level of freedom, tolerance, and open experimentation. While working with tourists, I’ve noticed their excitement — but also their confusion. Many don’t know what to expect from (soft) drugs. That’s why Amsterdam Teleport decided to share some of our own experiences.

What to expect?

What to Expect From a Trip

Before You Start

Trying something new always brings both excitement and anxiety. With drugs, it’s even stronger: you don’t know how your body will react, and scary “bad trip” stories don’t help.

For me, my last magic mushroom trip was 5 years ago. Since then, a lot has changed in the way they’re sold and which types are available. But let’s get to the important part: what happens after you eat them.

The First Stage – Eating

I was never a big fan of mushrooms, so eating them wasn’t something I looked forward to. Unfortunately, you can’t just swallow them fast. You need to chew them well to release the psilocybin.

For faster effects, eat them on an empty stomach. Don’t expect immediate results, though — it usually takes 30–60 minutes before things start happening.

The Trip Begins

At first, you’ll notice sharper contrasts and details. Your senses become more intense: everything looks, sounds, and feels more beautiful.

Some people like to close their eyes and dive into colors, thoughts, and euphoria. Others prefer to keep their eyes open and watch the world transform. Shapes shift, colors play, light behaves in strange ways. It’s usually soothing, not frightening.

Trips last over 4 hours, with waves of intensity. The good part? You stay aware of what’s happening and keep a sense of control.

Almost Banned

In December 2008, the Netherlands banned magic mushrooms after a few tragic incidents were linked to them. Later, investigations showed mushrooms weren’t actually the cause.

Still, politicians banned certain mushroom types — but not psilocybin or psilocin themselves. That loophole left space for something new: truffles.

Magic Mushrooms or Truffles?

When you visit one of the smart shops in Amsterdam you will see different types of truffles. A couple of the well know ones are:  Mexicana’s, Hawaiians, Dragon’s dynamite, Mushrocks and Tampanensis. Some of them quite obviously named after their banned cousins! :) All of them provide the same intense colorful psychedelic trip and feelings of euphoria. Some of them are stronger and require more experience than others. In general smart shop re-sellers are very helpful when it comes to explaining all the different types and give you some decent beginner advise.  Don’t be afraid to ask!

Magic Mushrooms or Truffles?

When you walk into a smart shop, you’ll find different types of truffles: Mexicana’s, Hawaiians, Dragon’s Dynamite, Mushrocks, Tampanensis. Some are named after their banned mushroom cousins.

They all offer colorful, euphoric trips, though some are stronger than others. Shop staff usually give good advice, especially for beginners — don’t be afraid to ask!

When nature calls: Very decent and beautiful shop on the corner of Leidsestraat and Keizersgracht. Great variety of different products and very helpful staff.

Magic mushroom gallery: Cool shop in Spuistraat. Hard to miss the Mario look a like sign outside their shop!

Kokopelli: Very close to the red light district in the Warmoestraat you will find this very curious smart shop. Even if you are not interested in tripping this shop is worth a visit.

Do’s and Don’ts

No drug is 100% safe. From my own experience, mushrooms were warm, natural, and positive — but only when used wisely. Keep this in mind:

• ✅ Be with people you trust.

• ✅ Choose a safe, comfortable place.

• ❌ Don’t take them if you feel sad or anxious.

• ✅ Get close to nature for the best experience (forest, park, beach).

• ✅ If it gets too intense, eat or drink something sugary.

• ✅ Always ask the shop staff for advice and start light.