The Slijterij guides
Amsterdam & alcohol 101.
The rules in numbers, plus practical guides from behind the counter.
- 18Minimum age for any alcoholBeer, wine or whisky: the same rule since 2014.
- 15%Above this, only a slijterijSupermarkets stop at 15% ABV. Spirits are sold by licensed liquor shops.
- <25Look under 25? Bring IDShops ask anyone who looks under 25. A passport, ID card or driving licence works.
- 0.5‰Limit behind the wheel, and on a bikeYes, cycling counts. New drivers (first 5 years) have a 0.2‰ limit.
- 25%Biggest discount allowed on alcoholNo mega-deals: price promotions over 25% are banned since 2021.
- 0Drinks on the street in much of the centreAmsterdam bans drinking in public in many central areas. Enjoy it at home, at the hotel or in a bar.
Sources: Alcoholwet (wetten.overheid.nl) · Rijksoverheid: alcohol · NIX18 · Gemeente Amsterdam. A friendly summary, not legal advice. Rules can change.
Local guideThe best liquor shop near Amsterdam Centraal (without tourist prices)Two minutes from the station, honest prices and a huge range. Here's how to find us.
DeliveryAlcohol delivery in Amsterdam: how it works, how late, and the rulesHow delivery works in central Amsterdam: what you can order, how late, payment and the 18+ check.
SpiritsWhere to buy absinthe in Amsterdam (and what to know first)The green-fairy myths explained, how to drink it properly, and where to find a real bottle.