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Our offer is only for you if you are of legal age. Please confirm that you are at least 18 years old to proceed.
You want to start smoking hookah and are looking for the right hookah tobacco to begin with? Then you’re in the right place. We'll show you what to look out for when choosing the right hookah flavor – especially if you're just getting started.
If you’re smoking a hookah for the first time, Virginia hookah tobacco is generally the best choice. It contains less nicotine than other types, offers a smooth smoking experience, and impresses with a wide range of flavors. Alongside classic brands like Al Fakher, Aqua Mentha, or Adalya, brands like Aino, Al Massiva, Holster and 187 Strassenbande are setting new standards: smooth, not too strong, and perfect for building your first experience.
Even within Virginia tobacco, there are differences: While Aino and Holster are known for especially light blends, Babos Tobacco, for example, contains a bit more nicotine. The reason: Unlike many others, it's not washed. That can already be too strong for beginners – so it’s better to start with something milder.
If you have zero experience with smoking, it might be best to avoid nicotine at first – it can become addictive quickly. So if you'd like to try a nicotine-free tobacco first, no problem. With nicotine-free alternatives like the cellulose-based substitute from Smoke Island or the paste from Hookahsqueeze, you can enjoy your hookah session completely without nicotine or tar. The experience is very similar to vaping and is ideal for easing into the world of hookah. You’ll find a full overview in our category:
Nicotine-Free Hookah Tobacco
Even if you're curious about dark blends or Burley tobacco – we recommend holding off until you’ve gained some experience with lighter options. Dark tobacco has a much higher nicotine content, a stronger flavor, and a bold tobacco base note that can be overwhelming at the beginning. But there are big differences among dark blends as well.
If you want to learn more about the difference between Virginia and Burley, check out our blog post:
Hookah Tobacco Types: What’s the Difference Between Burley and Virginia?
Before you choose a tobacco, it’s worth taking a moment to think about your taste preferences. Hookah tobacco flavors can be roughly divided into three categories: fruity, creamy, and refreshing. Of course, you’ll try a variety over time and discover your personal favorite – but it helps to have a general idea of what you like.
For example, if you don’t like anise or licorice, then double apple probably isn’t for you. Fortunately, there are plenty of other flavors that are very popular and perfect for getting started.
In Germany, fruity and refreshing flavors are by far the most popular. Creamy hookah flavors may have a smaller audience, but they’re loved by a dedicated fanbase.
If you're looking for more inspiration, check out our blog article:
Best Hookah Tobacco 2025
There you'll find our top picks for Virginia and Burley – including beginner and advanced recommendations.
If you're just starting out with hookah, Virginia tobacco is the best choice. It's mild, has less nicotine, and comes in lots of tasty flavors. Brands like Al Fakher, Aqua Mentha, Aino, or Holster are great for getting started.
Virginia tobacco is milder and contains less nicotine – perfect for beginners. Burley or dark blend tobacco is stronger, has more nicotine, and delivers a more intense tobacco flavor. So it's better to start with the lighter varieties.
Yes, absolutely! There are nicotine-free alternatives like the cellulose-based tobacco substitute from Smoke Island or the paste from Hookahsqueeze. They offer a similar experience to smoking hookah but are completely free of nicotine – perfect for trying it out.
There are differences within Virginia too: Aino and Holster are known for their light blends, while Babos tobacco is a bit stronger since it’s not washed. As a beginner, it’s best to start with the milder options.
Fruity flavors like grape-mint, watermelon, or blueberry are popular. If you like it sweet, go for creamy ones like vanilla or pistachio. For a refreshing touch, mint or ice are great. Important: If you don’t like anise or licorice, avoid double apple.
Better not. They’re stronger in taste and have much more nicotine. That can be too intense for beginners. It’s best to gain some experience with Virginia tobacco first.
Then it’s best to try completely without nicotine first. With alternatives like cellulose-based tobacco or vapor paste, you can enjoy the hookah feeling without health risks or addiction potential from nicotine.
