Amsterdam When Nature Calls: A Guide to Finding Toilets in the City

We’ve all been there. You’re enjoying a stroll along Amsterdam’s canals, sipping your favorite drink, taking in the sights—and then suddenly, nature calls. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer of the Dutch capital, finding a toilet in Amsterdam can become a pressing concern. Fortunately, the city is equipped to handle your needs, if you know where to look. This guide gives you the scoop on how to navigate Amsterdam "when nature calls."

Public Toilets in Amsterdam: What to Expect

Public toilets in Amsterdam aren’t as common as in some other major cities, but they do exist. The city has been working to improve accessibility, especially in busy areas like train stations, parks, and popular squares. However, be prepared: not all of them are free, and not all are as clean as you’d hope.

• Cost: Many public toilets charge €0.50 to €1.00. Coins or contactless cards may be required.
• Availability: Toilets are more common around tourist areas like Dam Square, Museumplein, and Vondelpark.
• Gender Inclusivity: The city has been criticized for the lack of women's public toilets, though this is slowly improving.

Top Spots to Go—When You Gotta Go

If you’re in central Amsterdam and in urgent need, here are your best bets:

• Amsterdam Central Station: Toilets are available on the main level, though expect a small fee.
• Vondelpark: Public toilets can be found near the park's cafés and exits.
• De Bijenkorf Department Store: Clean and centrally located, but often busy.
• Museums (Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum): If you’re visiting, make use of their facilities.

Many fast-food restaurants and coffee shops have toilets, though staff might request you to make a purchase first.

Free Toilet Tips: How to Pee Without Paying

Let’s be honest—paying to pee isn’t everyone’s favorite thing. Here are some hacks to save your cents:

• Shopping Centers: Places like Magna Plaza near Dam Square offer decent facilities for free or a small fee.
• Library (OBA - Oosterdokskade): One of the cleanest public restrooms in the city, and free to use!
• Hotel Lobbies: Enter confidently, act like you belong, and walk straight to the facilities.
• Department Stores: HEMA and Hudson’s Bay (if open) usually have public restrooms.

Mobile Apps That Can Help

If you want a high-tech solution for a low-tech problem, several apps can save the day:

• Toilet Finder: Lists nearby toilets with user ratings and access tips.
• SitOrSquat: Offers reviews on cleanliness and availability.
• Google Maps: Search “toilet near me” for a quick fix.

Just be sure to have your GPS turned on, and keep in mind that not all toilets listed are currently open—check user reviews or updates when in doubt.

What About Nighttime?

Amsterdam at night can be magical, but finding a toilet after 10 PM gets trickier. Most shops close, and even bars may deny entry if you’re not a customer. Consider:

• Nightclubs and Late Bars: These often have clean facilities, though entry may not be free.
• 24-Hour Fast-Food Chains: McDonald's and FEBO locations can be lifesavers.
• Hotels: Again, discreet visits to hotel lobbies can help when desperate.

Toilets and Accessibility

Accessible toilets are still limited, though awareness is growing. Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, major train stations, and some museums offer well-equipped disabled toilets. Apps like AccessNow can be handy for finding accessible spots.

Eco-Friendly and Gender-Neutral Toilets

Amsterdam is slowly introducing more eco-friendly and inclusive restrooms. Parks like Westerpark have waterless urinals and gender-neutral stalls. Cafés in neighborhoods like De Pijp and Jordaan are also adopting these trends.

Summary and FAQ: Be Ready When Nature Strikes

In Amsterdam, responding to nature's call doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you're wandering the canals or exploring museums, there’s usually a restroom nearby if you plan ahead. Use the tips in this guide to make your visit more comfortable—and always carry some coins, just in case!

FAQ

• Are public toilets free in Amsterdam?
  Not usually—expect to pay €0.50 to €1.00 in most places.
• Can I use toilets in restaurants or bars?
  Yes, but staff may ask you to be a paying customer.
• Are there many toilets for women?
  Not as many as there should be, but this is improving slowly.
• Is there a public toilet map?
  Yes—use apps like Toilet Finder or Google Maps to locate facilities.
• What if I need a toilet late at night?
  Try train stations, late-night fast food spots, or hotels.