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

Should you visit Amsterdam or Anchorage?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Amsterdam or Anchorage, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a party-oriented, laid-back, and scenic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and shopping.

Anchorage

Anchorage is a scenic, breathtaking, and cultural city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Amsterdam and Anchorage: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Anchorage?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Amsterdam than Anchorage. 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, and big city activities, while Anchorage attracts visitors for its food and hiking. Amsterdam is more touristy than Anchorage and is known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Rijksmuseum. Anchorage is famous for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture.

How is Amsterdam different from Anchorage?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Amsterdam is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

Anchorage offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. While most people visit for the outdoor experiences, there are a few museums where you can learn about the local culture and wildlife. Popular museums include the the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center, the Alaska Aviation Museum, and the Alaska Museum of Science and Nature.

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

Anchorage is a nice place to visit for its restaurant scene. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Anchorage. Food is expensive in town, but there are some unique local specialties that you must try. Many restaurants offer fresh seafood and local meats. Favorites include yak meat, king crab, and fresh oysters.

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 Amsterdam or Anchorage Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for nightlife. However, Anchorage is not a good city for nightlife and partying.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Anchorage. The town's nightlife mostly consists of local bars where you can hang out. Check out Koot's, which is a longstanding favorite.

Is Amsterdam or Anchorage Better for Music?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for live music. However, Anchorage 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.

Anchorage is not a live music destination.

Is Amsterdam or Anchorage Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Anchorage does not have a historic old town.

Amsterdam is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Anchorage does not have a historic old town.

Is Amsterdam or Anchorage Better for Hiking?

Anchorage is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Amsterdam is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Anchorage draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The town is surrounded by wilderness and it's not hard to escape into nature. You can choose between short walks, long day trips, and multi-day treks, with everything in between available as well. There are more than 300 miles of hiking trails near town and several favorites include Byron Glacier Trail, Thunderbird Falls Trail, and Flattop Mountain.

Amsterdam is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Anchorage?

Amsterdam is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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 Anchorage. There are plenty of local gift shops and boutiques where you can pick up local Alaskan crafts and products. There's no sales tax, but prices can still be a bit steep. But if you're looking for something uniquely local to remember your trip, you don't have to look hard.

Is Amsterdam or Anchorage Better for Families?

Anchorage 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 Anchorage. Kids who appreciate nature will appreciate this unique setting. Everyone will enjoy a glacier cruise, but you can hang out with the locals in Westchester Lagoon, see the animals at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and learn about the area at the Anchorage Museum.

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 Amsterdam or Anchorage Better for Couples?

Amsterdam and Anchorage are both high quality to visit as a couple.

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.

Anchorage is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city makes a good base for couples who want to explore the surrounding beauty. The landscapes make a beautiful backdrop for a romantic trip, and the adventure activities will make for an unforgettable experience. There are plenty of outdoor activities and adventure sports that couples can enjoy together and the beauty of the region is breathtaking.

Is Amsterdam or Anchorage Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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 backpackers visit Anchorage. There are a few good budget places to stay, and backpackers will also have plenty of outdoor wilderness to explore near town. It's important to remember that Alaska is known for its challenging wilderness so, unless you're experienced, you should take a guide.

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

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for its public transit. However, Anchorage is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Amsterdam can get around quickly with the extensive 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.

Public transit is quite limited in Anchorage. There is the People Mover bus system that transports riders around town, but to truly experience the region, you must have a car.

Is Amsterdam or Anchorage a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for its walkability. However, Anchorage is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

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

Anchorage is generally not a very walkable city. The downtown area is compact so you can wander to the nearby shops and restaurants on foot, but most people visit with the goal of exploring outside of town. For that you need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Anchorage or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Anchorage?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Amsterdam and Anchorage. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Amsterdam than in Anchorage. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Amsterdam, and 1-3 days is enough time in Anchorage.

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

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

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

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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Anchorage. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Anchorage has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Amsterdam or Anchorage?

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.

You'll find museums and food around the outdoorsy destination of Anchorage. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Amsterdam or Anchorage?

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.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the breathtaking city of Anchorage. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Amsterdam or Anchorage?

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.

Anchorage is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Amsterdam and Anchorage, we can see that Anchorage is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Amsterdam is in Europe and Anchorage is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Anchorage?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Anchorage. When comparing the sizes of Amsterdam and Anchorage, 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 Amsterdam or Anchorage?

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 Amsterdam or Anchorage in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Amsterdam and Anchorage. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Amsterdam this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Anchorage for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Amsterdam is generally a little warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 17°C (62°F), and Anchorage fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Anchorage this time of the year. In Amsterdam, it's very sunny this time of the year. Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Anchorage during summer. Amsterdam gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 240 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Amsterdam usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Amsterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Anchorage receives 1.7 inches (44 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Anchorage in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Amsterdam as well as Anchorage. Many travelers come to Amsterdam for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Anchorage in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Anchorage can get quite cold in the autumn. Amsterdam is much warmer than Anchorage in the autumn. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Anchorage fluctuates around 35°F (2°C).

In the autumn, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Anchorage. Amsterdam gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 118 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets more rain in October than Anchorage. Amsterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Anchorage receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Anchorage in the Winter?

Both Anchorage and Amsterdam are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Amsterdam in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Anchorage for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Anchorage can be very cold during winter. Amsterdam can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Amsterdam is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the winter temperatures in Amsterdam in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Anchorage averages at about 15°F (-9°C).

Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Anchorage during winter. Amsterdam gets 46 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 80 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Amsterdam usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (19 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Anchorage in the Spring?

Both Anchorage and Amsterdam during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Amsterdam for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Anchorage because of the natural beauty.

The weather in Anchorage can be very cold. In April, Amsterdam is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 8°C (46°F), and Anchorage fluctuates around 36°F (2°C).

In Anchorage, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Anchorage. Amsterdam gets 166 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 233 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets more rain in April than Anchorage. Amsterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Anchorage and Amsterdam