As someone who travels the world and documents life across cultures, I’ve noticed just how fast cannabis laws are changing globally. In 2025, more countries than ever are embracing legalization… whether for medical relief or recreational use. It’s a shift you can actually feel when you’re on the ground. From the cafes of Amsterdam to dispensaries in Bangkok, weed is no longer hiding in the shadows.

In this post, I’ve put together a comprehensive list of countries where cannabis is legal… either fully or in specific regions. If you’re a fellow traveler, curious soul, or someone just trying to stay informed, this guide will show you where the green light is officially on around the world.

Countries That Have Legalized Recreational Cannabis Use

These countries allow the personal and recreational use of cannabis by adults under national law:

  • Canada

  • Georgia

  • Germany

  • Luxembourg

  • Malta

  • Mexico

  • South Africa

  • Thailand

  • Uruguay

Also Legal in Specific Regions:

  • United States: a total of 24 states, approximately 3 territories, and Washington D.C.

  • Australia: Australian Capital Territory (not nationwide)

Weed

Also Legal in Specific Regions. What Does That Mean?

Not every country with cannabis laws has adopted a nationwide policy. In some places, local jurisdictions have legalized weed, even if the national government hasn’t. Here’s how it works:

United States

Although cannabis remains illegal under federal law, it is fully legal for recreational use in the following areas:

  • 24 U.S. states have legalized recreational cannabis for adults 21 and older. These states include California, New York, Colorado, Illinois, Oregon, and many others.

  • 3 U.S. territories… such as Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands… have also legalized it.

  • Washington D.C. (the nation’s capital) allows adults to possess and grow cannabis for personal use, though commercial sales are restricted due to federal oversight.

Important Note: Even in legal states, there are restrictions on usage, possession limits, and driving under the influence, and cannabis cannot be transported across state lines.

Australia (Australian Capital Territory)

In Australia, recreational cannabis is not legal nationwide, but the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) …home to Canberra, the national capital …  has legalized it for personal use.

Here’s what the law allows in the ACT:

  • Adults aged 18+ can possess up to 50g of dried cannabis.

  • Can grow up to two plants per person, with a maximum of four per household.

  • However, it is still illegal to buy, sell, or supply cannabis… a somewhat contradictory system that aims to decriminalize personal use but not commercial activity.

Fun Fact: ACT’s approach is not endorsed by the federal government, which means there’s still a legal gray area in how these laws are enforced.

Countries Where Medical Marijuana Is Legal

These countries permit regulated medical cannabis use under their respective national or regional health authorities:

  • Albania

  • Argentina

  • Australia

  • Barbados

  • Brazil

  • Canada

  • Chile

  • Colombia

  • Costa Rica

  • Croatia

  • Cyprus

  • Czech Republic

  • Denmark

  • Ecuador

  • Finland

  • Georgia

  • Germany

  • Greece

  • Ireland

  • Israel

  • Italy

  • Jamaica

  • Lebanon

  • Luxembourg

  • Malawi

  • Malta

  • Mexico

  • Netherlands

  • New Zealand

  • North Macedonia

  • Norway

  • Panama

  • Peru

  • Poland

  • Portugal

  • Rwanda

  • Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

  • San Marino

  • South Africa

  • Spain

  • Sri Lanka

  • Switzerland

  • Thailand

  • Ukraine

  • United Kingdom

  • Uruguay

  • Vanuatu

  • Zambia

  • Zimbabwe

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Cannabis Legalization Around the World

1. Is weed legal everywhere in the United States?

No. While up to 24 U.S. states have legalized recreational cannabis, it remains illegal under federal law. This means cannabis can’t be taken across state lines or onto federal property, even if you’re in a legal state.

2. Which countries have fully legalized weed for recreational use?

As of 2025, countries that have fully legalized recreational cannabis include: Canada, Georgia, Germany, Luxembourg, Malta, Mexico, South Africa, Thailand, and Uruguay.

3. What about medical cannabis? Is it more widely accepted?

Yes. Over 50 countries, including Australia, the UK, Israel, Brazil, and Spain, have legalized cannabis for medical use under varying degrees of regulation.

4. Can I travel with cannabis to another country where it’s legal?

No. Traveling internationally with cannabis is almost always illegal, even between countries where it’s legal. It could result in serious legal consequences, including arrest and deportation.

5. Is weed use legal across all of Australia?

No. Only the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) has legalized it for recreational personal use. The rest of Australia still criminalizes cannabis possession and use to varying degrees.

6. Why are some countries still hesitant to legalize weed?

Concerns around public health, youth access, regulation enforcement, and international treaties are common reasons governments cite for keeping cannabis illegal.

7. Where can I find the most cannabis-friendly countries for travelers?

If you’re a cannabis enthusiast or weed tourist looking to explore legally, consider visiting Canada, Uruguay, Thailand, or Germany … all countries with established cannabis laws and relatively open attitudes toward its use.

8. What is weed tourism to be exact? 

Weed tourism (also known as cannabis tourism or marijuana tourism) refers to traveling to destinations where the recreational or medical use of cannabis is legal, specifically to enjoy cannabis-related experiences. This type of tourism has become increasingly popular as more countries and states relax their laws around marijuana.

Weed legalization

What Weed Tourism Often Looks Like (From Someone Who’s Seen a Lot)

Weed tourism is growing fast, and I’ve seen it pop up in some of the most unexpected corners of the world. This isn’t just about lighting up and chilling. In many places where marijuana is legal, the cannabis scene has evolved into a whole experience that’s part culture, part curiosity, and part relaxation.

Weed tourism often includes the following:

1. Visiting Cannabis Dispensaries

This is usually the first stop for anyone diving into weed tourism. In places like Colorado, California, and parts of Canada, dispensaries are more than just shops. They’re sleek, informative, and filled with options you probably didn’t even know existed. Tourists can walk in, show their ID, and legally purchase different strains, edibles, oils, and more. It’s kind of like visiting a wine shop, but with a different kind of buzz.

2. Weed-Friendly Places to Stay

Accommodation is a big part of the weed travel experience. Some hotels and guesthouses actually allow cannabis consumption on-site. Others go even further and provide a completely cannabis-friendly environment. They provide things ranging from smoking lounges to outdoor consumption areas to  welcome gifts that include pre-rolls or edibles. In some cities, there are Airbnb-style stays that cater to cannabis lovers, offering zero judgment.

3. Cannabis Cafés and Lounges

If you’re into people-watching and making new friends while trying something new, cannabis cafés and lounges are the place to be. Amsterdam made this concept famous. I have actually seen cannabis lounges in places like Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and even parts of Thailand. These are public or semi-public spaces where you can consume cannabis, enjoy music, sip on drinks, and just take in the atmosphere.

4. Tours and Unique Cannabis Experiences

Many assume weed tourism is just all about getting high. Absolutely not! Weed tourists participate in learning, connecting, and exploring new ways to enjoy cannabis responsibly. That’s why a lot of destinations now offer:

  • Guided Tours of Cannabis Farms or Grow Houses: You’ll see how the plant is grown, harvested, and processed. It’s actually pretty fascinating.
  • Cooking Classes: Some places offer workshops where you learn how to cook with cannabis-infused ingredients. From brownies to pasta sauces, the options are wild.
  • Weed and Wine Pairing: Yes, it’s a thing. Some tours offer wine and weed tastings, where you get to explore flavor profiles and aromas just like you would at a wine tasting event.
  • Cannabis Yoga: When I first heard this, it was one of the most odd sounding things to me. But imagine a calm yoga class where people mindfully incorporate cannabis to enhance relaxation. These sessions are gaining popularity, especially in wellness-focused cities.

5. Cannabis Festivals and Events

Some people time their trips to attend major weed-friendly events. The most popular is the 4/20 celebration that happens in cities like Denver, Vancouver, and San Francisco. But there are others such as festivals that mark the anniversary of legalization in certain states or countries, music festivals that allow cannabis, and even weed-themed expos and trade shows. These events bring together a wide range of people, from casual users to cannabis entrepreneurs.

Popular Weed Tourism Destinations (as of 2025)

Let’s be honest. Weed tourism is no longer a fringe thing. Around the world, more and more travelers are booking trips not just for beaches or museums but for legal cannabis experiences. Some countries and cities have fully embraced this trend and turned it into a legit part of their tourism industry. Below are some of the top weed travel hotspots right now:

  • Amsterdam, Netherlands

  • Bangkok, Thailand

  • Barcelona, Spain (in cannabis social clubs)

  • Denver, Colorado, USA

  • Toronto, Canada

  • Montevideo, Uruguay

What fascinates me the most is how open and normal weed tourism has become in these places, especially when I think about Ghana, where cannabis is still completely illegal and heavily stigmatized. Very interesting times we live in!