A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Aalborg vs. Amsterdam for Nightlife, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Aalborg or Amsterdam?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Aalborg and Amsterdam. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Aalborg

Aalborg is a charming, local, and historic town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a laid-back, scenic, and historic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Aalborg and Amsterdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Aalborg or Amsterdam?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Amsterdam than Aalborg. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Amsterdam is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Aalborg attracts visitors for its food and small town charm. Amsterdam is more touristy than Aalborg and is known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Rijksmuseum. Aalborg is famous for its half-timbered homes and waterfront setting.

How is Aalborg different from Amsterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Amsterdam and Aalborg. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Aalborg or Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Amsterdam. The city has a number of sights and museums including the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Royal Palace. The world renowned Rijksmuseum is a must see for any art enthusiast. There are also many smaller, lesser known museums that are well worth a visit.

Aalborg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting museums around town such as the House of Music and the Kunsten Museum of Modern Art.

Is the Food Better in Aalborg or Amsterdam? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Aalborg is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Aalborg. You'll find an eclectic mix of trendy restaurants and local finds. There are also international options and modern street food.

Amsterdam may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Food is expensive in this city, particularly in the touristy areas. There are some markets that sell great local items and the dessert cafes are awesome!

Is Aalborg or Amsterdam Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is renowned for nightlife. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Amsterdam is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city has some of the best nightlife in Europe. There are plenty of bars, dance clubs, and other activities that you can enjoy throughout the night.

The nightlife in Aalborg has something for everybody. Despite its small town vibe and relatively unknown status, Aalborg has a great nightlife scene. It's home to the longest continuous string of bars and clubs in all of Scandinavia. You'll find about 30 bars along the pedestrian street of Jomfru Ane Gade and in the early hours, drinks are also surprisingly cheap.

Is Aalborg or Amsterdam Better for Music?

Amsterdam is renowned for live music. However, Aalborg is not a live music destination.

Amsterdam is a world class music destination. The city attracts its share of world renowned DJs and musicians. Popular music venues include Paradiso, De Melkweg, and Chicago Social Club.

Aalborg is not a live music destination.

Is Aalborg or Amsterdam Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam is a great destination for its historic old town. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Amsterdam. The old city center is one of the best preserved in Europe. It's enclosed by canals and has many historic churches, plazas, and buildings.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Aalborg. The charming streets of the old town are filled with cafes that come to life during the warm summer months.

Is the Shopping Better in Aalborg or Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is a great destination for shopping. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Amsterdam is an extremely popular place for shoppers. For the best shopping in town, head to the Nine Streets area in the historic district and the two main shopping streets of The Kalverstraat and Leidsestraat.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Aalborg. There are a number of shopping malls, shopping centers, and local boutiques around town.

Is Aalborg or Amsterdam Better for Families?

Aalborg is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Aalborg. There is plenty of outdoor space, some kid-friendly museums, a zoo, and fascinating street art. Not far from town there's also Fårup Sommerland, which is a great amusement park.

For families, Amsterdam is not always the best place to visit. The city does it's share of partying, and there are some areas, like the red light district, that aren't exactly kid-friendly, but there are some nice parks, playgrounds, and the impressive NEMO Science Museum that you can explore.

Is Aalborg or Amsterdam Better for Couples?

Amsterdam is a great destination for romance. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Amsterdam frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. For many, a visit to this city is all about the party, but for couples who enjoy history, architecture, or boat rides along the scenic canals, the city also makes a great getaway. It's also fun to stay in a houseboat and have a unique experience.

Aalborg makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Art museums, parks, and interesting restaurants make this a nice town for a weekend trip.

Is Aalborg or Amsterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is renowned for backpackers. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Amsterdam is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. With it's party-hard personality and countless low price hostels, this city attracts its share of backpackers. Do note that many of the hostels aren't focused on quality, so make sure you understand what you're paying for. It may be worth booking a slightly more expensive room in a hotel.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Aalborg. There are a couple of hostels in town that offer accommodation for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Aalborg or Amsterdam Better for Students?

Aalborg is a nice place to visit for students. However, Amsterdam is not popular with students.

Aalborg is popular with students. The town feels quiet during the rainy winter months but when the sun makes an appearance, it comes to life and people head outdoors and into the cafes.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

Is Aalborg or Amsterdam Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Amsterdam is renowned for its public transit. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Amsterdam has a great public transit system. The city has metros, trams, buses, and ferries that help you get around. Since this is the Netherlands, getting around by bike is very popular.

While Aalborg offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a decent bus system around town.

Is Aalborg or Amsterdam a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is renowned for its walkability. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Amsterdam on foot is easy. The historic parts of the city are very walkable and much of the city is best explored on foot.

Aalborg is a somewhat walkable place. It's a walkable town, but it does get a lot of rain so some seasons are more pedestrian-friendly than others.

For even more information, also check out Is Aalborg Worth Visiting? and Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Amsterdam or Aalborg?

How long in Aalborg or Amsterdam?

Both Aalborg and Amsterdam have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Amsterdam than in Aalborg. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Aalborg, and 2-7 days is enough time in Amsterdam.

Families should spend more time in Aalborg than Amsterdam. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Aalborg, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Amsterdam than Aalborg. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Amsterdam that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Amsterdam than Aalborg if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Amsterdam.

One day in Aalborg or Amsterdam?

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Aalborg. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Because Amsterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Aalborg or Amsterdam?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the charming destination of Aalborg. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Because Amsterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Amsterdam has to offer.

Five days in Aalborg or Amsterdam?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the local town of Aalborg. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Amsterdam is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Amsterdam has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Aalborg or Amsterdam?

Aalborg is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Amsterdam. Because Amsterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Denmark, The Best Adventure Tours to Denmark, The Best 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Aalborg and Amsterdam, we can see that Amsterdam is more expensive. And not only is Aalborg much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Aalborg would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Aalborg and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Amsterdam would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Amsterdam than you might in Aalborg.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Aalborg Expensive? and Is Amsterdam Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Aalborg or Amsterdam?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Aalborg. When comparing the sizes of Aalborg and Amsterdam, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Aalborg or Amsterdam?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Aalborg or Amsterdam in the Summer?

Both Amsterdam and Aalborg are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Aalborg in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Amsterdam for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Aalborg is around the same temperature as Amsterdam. Typically, the summer temperatures in Aalborg in July average around 16°C (61°F), and Amsterdam averages at about 17°C (62°F).

In July, Aalborg usually receives less rain than Amsterdam. Aalborg gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Aalborg or Amsterdam in the Autumn?

Both Amsterdam and Aalborg during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Aalborg for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Aalborg is generally cooler than Amsterdam. Daily temperatures in Aalborg average around 9°C (48°F), and Amsterdam fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Aalborg usually gets less rain in October than Amsterdam. Aalborg gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Aalborg or Amsterdam in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Aalborg and Amsterdam. The winter months attract visitors to Aalborg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Amsterdam this time of year.

It's quite cold in Amsterdam in the winter. The weather in Aalborg can be very cold. Aalborg is much colder than Amsterdam in the winter. The daily temperature in Aalborg averages around -1°C (31°F) in January, and Amsterdam fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In January, Aalborg usually receives less rain than Amsterdam. Aalborg gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Aalborg or Amsterdam in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Aalborg as well as Amsterdam. The small town charm are the main draw to Aalborg this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Amsterdam for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Aalborg is cooler than Amsterdam. Typically, the spring temperatures in Aalborg in April average around 6°C (43°F), and Amsterdam averages at about 8°C (46°F).

Aalborg usually gets less rain in April than Amsterdam. Aalborg gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Amsterdam and Aalborg