Weed in Bern, Switzerland: A Simple Story

Hi there! This is a story about a trip to Bern, Switzerland, where I learned some interesting things about cannabis, or in other words weed or ganja. It’s a magic plant that people use to feel relaxed or happy. But in Bern, it’s not so easy to find, and there are some important rules about it.

I just got back from Bern a week ago, now smoking a big joint of pineapple weed strain, reminding me of that cool time I had in Bern — thanks in part to the weed that accompanied me on my adventures.

Cannabis laws in Bern, Switzerland

It is important to note that cannabis, weed, and hash are prohibited in Bern. You can not officially purchase marijuana strains with high THC concentration in some coffee shops like in Amsterdam. Medical CBD cannabis may be available for purchase at dispensaries, but a prescription from a doctor is required, and you will never get high with CBD.

In one sports bar I got acquainted with Steve who moved to Bern 3 years ago, so he knows the local drug scene. According to Steve - despite cannabis being banned according to laws, cops are generally relaxed about weed, sometimes being smokers themselves.

What if I get caught with weed in Bern?

In practice, as Steve said - if you are 18+ and carry less than 20 grams of weed or 10 grams of hash and do not smoke in public - you should not expect any arrest. As a maximum, cops will confiscate your stuff after they ensure you are not a dealer who delivers stuff.

There are some stories about occasional cops forcing people to give them a bribe after catching someone with weed, but such cases are rare. Usually cops do not touch foreign tourists who are spending their vacation or business trip in Bern and bring money to Switzerland.

How Do People Get Weed in Bern?

Finding weed in Bern isn’t as easy as just asking someone on the street. Wholesale dealers in Bern buy weed through special darknet websites, but that’s a bit tricky for regular cannabis users who want to smoke, but not re-sell weed.

For tourists, the process of obtaining weed in Bern is a bit different. Street dealers are less common these days. Instead, many have moved to a more discreet system using encrypted messaging apps like Telegram. You get their contact details from someone who’s already bought weed in Bern or through online forums, then you place your order, arrange a drop-off point, and pay with cryptocurrency. The package is typically left in a hidden spot, and you’re given the location and a photo to help you find it. This approach minimizes risks for both you and the dealer. I was glad I had Steve as my connection so I didn’t have to go through all this hassle.

What do locals think about ganja in Bern

The fact that cannabis is strictly regulated by f*cking officials the government does not mean that local inhabitants of Bern are too much against weed. Mostly - they simply do not care. Of course it is better to preserve some common rules and not to smoke weed in public in Bern, but even if someone notices you - this will not be treated as some crime or inappropriate behavior.

As I was actively asking and discussing weed - Steve invited me to his apartment for a small party that very first evening - just a couple of his rasta friends, beer, weed and PS5 - exactly what I do love😁😁😁. How lucky I was😁 Steve told he will be my weed dealer while I am here in Bern so I had no issues with great stuff all that time.

Steve also confirmed locals are OK with weed in Bern if you behave yourself correctly, while it’s better to avoid cops and not to have more than 10 grams in your pocket.

Cannabis in Bern: Frequently Asked Questions

Is high-THC weed illegal in Bern?

Yes, non-medical cannabis is regulated and restricted, but the police tend to be lenient with tourists carrying less than 10 grams.

What happens if you get caught with cannabis in Bern?

It depends on the situation. If the police suspect you’re a dealer, you could face serious consequences. However, tourists with small amounts of cannabis are generally left alone.

Can you still find cannabis the old-school way in Bern?

Yes, though it’s becoming less common. While many dealers have shifted to online sales, searching in parks or asking taxi drivers might still work.

Can I find high quality weed or hash in Bern?

Yes, while quality varies from dealer to dealer.

Can I find hash in Bern?

Yes, a lot of dealers sell both weed and hash, so hash is also popular and can be found in Bern. Not all dealers have it, but it is still rather popular.

What is the price for weed and hash in Bern?

Prices vary from dealer to dealer and usually depend on stuff quality and dealer’s greediness 😂From what I saw - super high quality weed may go up to €20 - €25 per 1 gram (while the more you buy - the lower price you get), and high quality hash was around €30 - €35 per 1 gram. Have not purchased low quality weed in Bern so do not know the prices, but should be lower.

Five random facts about cannabis

1. You Can Eat Cannabis Raw

Granted, it tastes a lot better when prepared with yummy edibles like brownies, bread, or cake. But cannabis can be consumed raw. One more thing is that if you eat it raw, it won’t get you high, but it will provide you with all the medicinal benefits.

2. Cannabis Has Over 100 Active Cannabinoids

In fact, over 120. The most famous ones are (you guessed it!) THC and CBD.

3. Medical Use

Cannabis is used to treat a variety of medical conditions, including chronic pain, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and chemotherapy-induced nausea.

4. Religious Use

Cannabis has been used in religious rituals in various cultures, notably in Hinduism and by Rastafarians.

5. Cannabis and Creativity

Some studies suggest that cannabis may enhance creativity by altering the way the brain processes information.