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

Should you visit Albufeira or Amsterdam?

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

Should I visit Albufeira or Amsterdam? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Albufeira

Albufeira is a popular, activity-filled, and high energy resort town. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, nightlife, and food.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a scenic, historic, and canal-lined city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Albufeira and Amsterdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Albufeira or Amsterdam?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Amsterdam than Albufeira, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Amsterdam is better known for its museums & sights, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Albufeira is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Albufeira is well known for its golden beaches and limestone cliffs. Amsterdam is well known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. Also, Amsterdam is famous for The Rijksmuseum.

How is Albufeira different from Amsterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Amsterdam is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Albufeira does not have museums and landmarks.

Amsterdam offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Albufeira does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Albufeira 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 Albufeira. As the largest resort town in the Algarve, the city also has the widest selection of restaurants. There are traditional options that serve up classic dishes like grilled sardines, as well as international restaurants with traveler favorites. As expected, you'll find a lot of seafood, but you'll also find inland influences from local farms in the area.

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 Albufeira or Amsterdam Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Albufeira or Amsterdam has a better nightlife scene.

People head to Albufeira just to party. It's probably the most infamous party destination in the Algarve and it won't disappoint. During the peak summer months you'll find the streets around the popular "Strip" filled with tourists and party-goers. There are hen and stag parties, backpackers, and drunken travelers out for a good time. The Strip has become so popular that there are now bars and clubs on the adjacent streets as well. If you're not staying in the area, you'll likely want to take a taxi, as it's a couple kilometers outside of the town center.

The nightlife in Amsterdam is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Is Albufeira or Amsterdam Better for Music?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Albufeira is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Amsterdam The city attracts its share of world renowned DJs and musicians. Popular music venues include Paradiso, De Melkweg, and Chicago Social Club.

Albufeira is not a live music destination.

Is Albufeira or Amsterdam Better for Resorts?

Albufeira is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Amsterdam is not a resort destination.

Albufeira offers an unforgettable resort vacation. As the largest resort town in the Algarve, you'll find a wide selection of hotels to choose from. Party-goers will want to stay near the Strip while families will prefer the old town or resorts in Olhos de Agua.

Amsterdam is not a resort destination.

Is Albufeira or Amsterdam Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Albufeira is well known for its diving and snorkeling. However, Amsterdam is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Albufeira to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. There are countless vendors who will take you by boat to explore the underwater world, either by snorkeling or scuba diving. The marine life is impressive and the water is generally clear.

Amsterdam is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Albufeira or Amsterdam Better for Beaches?

Albufeira is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Amsterdam is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Albufeira are among the best in the world. With their golden sands and blue waters, the beaches are world class. The area also has a diversity of beaches that are perfect for all types of vacationers. For water sports, head to Praia dos Alemaes but for relaxation and catching some rays check out Praia da Falesia. You'll find some interesting rock formations at Praia dos Olhos de Agua. One of the most convenient beaches to town is Praia dos Pescadores. For nightlife you'll want to head to Praia da Oura.

Amsterdam is not a beach destination.

Is Albufeira or Amsterdam Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam is a great destination for its old town. However, Albufeira does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Albufeira does not have a historic old town.

Is Albufeira or Amsterdam Better for Hiking?

Albufeira is a nice place to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Amsterdam is not a hiking destination.

Albufeira has hiking trails worth exploring. There are countless coastal walks that are perfect for all skill levels. Many offers stunning views along the rocky coast and pass through natural settings. Popular trails in the area include Praia Grande Interpretation Trail and Paderne Castle Trail.

Amsterdam is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Albufeira or Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Albufeira is a resort town with minimal options for its shopping areas.

Amsterdam is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Albufeira has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find most of the shops are geared toward souvenirs or beach items, particularly near the beach and marina. If you look hard you might find some nice ceramics or items made of cork.

Is Albufeira or Amsterdam Better for Families?

Albufeira 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 Albufeira. Despite it's reputation as a party-hard city, there are actually a lot of family-friendly activities in the area. Because it's the largest resort town in the Algarve, it also has the most activities to choose from, including theme parks, water parks, dolphin watching, ropes courses, go karting, and more. The best area's for families are in the old town or the most of the family-friendly resorts outside of town. Families should avoid staying near "the Strip."

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 Albufeira or Amsterdam Better for Couples?

Albufeira is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Amsterdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Albufeira has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. For an active honeymoon or couple's retreat, this resort town has it all. Beautiful beaches, adventure-filled activities, a wild nightlife scene, and excellent resorts and restaurants all make for a memorable couple's getaway.

Amsterdam is a great resort town if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Is Albufeira or Amsterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Albufeira and Amsterdam are fantastic places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Albufeira. If you're looking for a party, then you found it. The area is a top pick for European holidays, so you'll find plenty of energy and activities around town. There are also golden beaches and a decent selection of hostels to choose from.

A large number of backpackers visit Amsterdam, as it is a very popular resort town for 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.

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

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Albufeira is a resort town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Amsterdam can get you around easily. 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Albufeira. There are regional buses and even trains, but do take note that many of the train and bus stations are a good distance outside of town.

Is Albufeira or Amsterdam a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. However, Albufeira is a resort town with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

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.

Albufeira is generally not a very walkable resort town. Most people prefer to hire a car, but if your hotel is near the beach and you're ok with walking to restaurants, then you may be able to get away without one. If you hope to travel into the countryside at all then a car is necessary.

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

Should I spend more time in Amsterdam or Albufeira?

How long in Albufeira or Amsterdam?

Both Albufeira and Amsterdam have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Albufeira has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Albufeira than Amsterdam. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Albufeira, and 2-7 days is enough time in Amsterdam.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Amsterdam than Albufeira 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 Albufeira or Amsterdam?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the resort town of Albufeira. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

People visit Amsterdam because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

A weekend in Albufeira or Amsterdam?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the high energy destination of Albufeira. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This resort town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

People visit Amsterdam because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Albufeira or Amsterdam?

You'll find nightlife and food around the high energy resort town of Albufeira. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this resort town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this resort town has to offer.

People visit Amsterdam because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Albufeira or Amsterdam?

Albufeira is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Albufeira, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Amsterdam is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Amsterdam, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Portugal, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, 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 Albufeira and Amsterdam, we can see that Amsterdam is more expensive. And not only is Albufeira much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Albufeira would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Albufeira 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 Albufeira.

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

Which is Bigger, Albufeira or Amsterdam?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Albufeira. When comparing the sizes of Albufeira 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 Albufeira 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 Albufeira or Amsterdam in the Summer?

Both Amsterdam and Albufeira are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Albufeira for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Amsterdam in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Albufeira is much warmer than Amsterdam in the summer. The daily temperature in Albufeira averages around 25°C (78°F) in July, and Amsterdam fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

In July, Albufeira usually receives less rain than Amsterdam. Albufeira gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Albufeira or Amsterdam in the Autumn?

Both Amsterdam and Albufeira during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Albufeira in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Amsterdam for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Albufeira is much warmer than Amsterdam. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Albufeira in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Amsterdam averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Albufeira usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Amsterdam. Albufeira gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Albufeira or Amsterdam in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Albufeira and Amsterdam. Most visitors come to Albufeira for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Amsterdam can be very cold. In January, Albufeira is generally much warmer than Amsterdam. Daily temperatures in Albufeira average around 11°C (52°F), and Amsterdam fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In January, Albufeira usually receives more rain than Amsterdam. Albufeira gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Albufeira or Amsterdam in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Albufeira as well as Amsterdam. The spring months attract visitors to Albufeira because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Additionally, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Amsterdam this time of year.

Albufeira is much warmer than Amsterdam in the spring. The daily temperature in Albufeira averages around 15°C (60°F) in April, and Amsterdam fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Albufeira usually gets less rain in April than Amsterdam. Albufeira gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Amsterdam and Albufeira