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

Should you visit Amsterdam or Austin?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Amsterdam or Austin, 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 canal-lined, party-oriented, and laid-back 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.

Austin

Austin is a lively, entrepreneurial, and eccentric city. It's a big city with many activities to entertain visitors, too. This is a very beautiful destination, too. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Amsterdam and Austin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Austin?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Amsterdam. Although Amsterdam and Austin are about the same size, Amsterdam has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Amsterdam is very popular for its historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Austin attracts visitors for its food and hiking. Amsterdam is more touristy than Austin and is known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Rijksmuseum. Austin is famous for its live music scene, excellent Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant student population.

How is Amsterdam different from Austin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Austin 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 Austin?

Plenty of people visit the superb sights and museums in both Amsterdam and Austin.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Amsterdam can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Austin. Austin has a number of great museums and sights including the Blanton Museum of Art, the Mexic-Arte Museum, and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. There's also a huge supply of local art galleries. Perhaps the most notable landmark in town is the beautiful Texas Capital Building

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

Austin is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Austin is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. It is credited with being the original food truck city and you'll find many diverse food truck options around town. There is also amazing Mexican food, world renowned Texas barbecue, and many modern restaurants that reflect the city's culinary influence.

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 Austin Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Amsterdam and Austin.

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.

Austin is a world class party destination. It's nightlife is centered around its thriving live music scene. Head for Sixth Street for some of the most popular bars and clubs. There are also many music festivals and outdoor concerts, particularly during the summer months. Popular bars and clubs around town include the White Horse, the Rose Room, and Antone's Nightclub.

Is Amsterdam or Austin Better for Music?

Live music enthusiatsts will find something to enjoy in either Amsterdam or Austin.

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.

Austin has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Music is what gives this city its character. There are many live music venues, concerts, and music festivals to experience. Austin has influenced many music genres such as rock, blues, jazz, hip hop, punk, and country.

Is Amsterdam or Austin Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Amsterdam to see the historical old town. 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.

Austin does not have a historic old town.

Is Amsterdam or Austin Better for Hiking?

Austin is a city with a few options for its hiking experiences. However, Amsterdam is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Austin. Head just outside of town to explore a few great hiking spots right near town.

Amsterdam is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Austin?

Amsterdam is a great destination for shopping. Also, Austin 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 Austin. There are a number of local boutiques around town where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Amsterdam or Austin Better for Families?

Austin 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 Austin. The city is a popular destination for young travelers, but there are also some family-friendly activities like Barton Springs, Zilker Park, and several natural swimming holes. There's a number of nice parks around town that are great for kids of all ages.

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 Austin Better for Couples?

Amsterdam is a great destination for romance. Also, Austin 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.

Austin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Young couples will enjoy the city for its lively nightlife, fun music scene, and youthful vibe. There are also many outdoor areas where you can hike or explore. The restaurant scene is among the best as well.

Is Amsterdam or Austin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Austin 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.

Many backpackers visit Austin. Although the city is relatively small, it does see a disproportionate number of backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town as well.

Is Amsterdam or Austin Better for Students?

Austin is well known for students. However, Amsterdam is not popular with students.

Austin is a great city to visit as a student. The city has a huge university, the University of Texas at Austin, and it is a young city with tons for international students. There is a great nightlife scene and plenty for students to see and do.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

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

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Austin is a city 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 Austin. There are city buses and a very limited lightrail system, but you really need a car to explore the city.

Is Amsterdam or Austin a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for its walkability. However, Austin is a city with minimal options 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.

Austin is generally not a very walkable city. The city, like most southern cities, isn't very walkable and it's important to have a car to get around. There are some downtown areas that are pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Austin or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Austin?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Amsterdam than Austin. 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 Austin 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 Austin?

Amsterdam is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Austin. 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 Amsterdam or Austin?

Amsterdam is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find live music and food around the unconventional destination of Austin. 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 Austin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Amsterdam. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the entrepreneurial city of Austin. 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.

A week in Amsterdam or Austin?

Amsterdam is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Austin 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Amsterdam and Austin, we can see that Amsterdam is more expensive. And not only is Austin much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Amsterdam is in Europe and Austin is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Austin would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Austin 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 Austin.

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

Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Austin?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 9% larger than the population of Austin. When comparing the sizes of Amsterdam and Austin, 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 Austin?

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 Austin in the Summer?

Both Austin and Amsterdam are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Austin this time of year.

In July, Amsterdam is generally much colder than Austin. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 17°C (62°F), and Austin fluctuates around 87°F (30°C).

It's quite sunny in Austin. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Amsterdam. Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Austin during summer. Amsterdam gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Austin receives 318 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Amsterdam usually receives more rain than Austin. Amsterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Austin in the Autumn?

Both Austin and Amsterdam during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Amsterdam this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Austin for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Amsterdam is much colder than Austin in the autumn. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Austin fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In Austin, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Austin. Amsterdam gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Austin receives 214 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Austin. Amsterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Austin receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Austin in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Amsterdam and Austin. Many travelers come to Amsterdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Austin in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Amsterdam. In the winter, Amsterdam is much colder than Austin. Typically, the winter temperatures in Amsterdam in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Austin averages at about 51°F (11°C).

Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Austin during winter. Amsterdam gets 46 hours of sunny skies, while Austin receives 163 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Amsterdam usually receives more rain than Austin. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Austin in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Amsterdam as well as Austin. Many visitors come to Amsterdam in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Austin for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Amsterdam is generally much colder than Austin. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 8°C (46°F), and Austin fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Austin. In the spring, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Austin. Amsterdam gets 166 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Austin receives 209 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets less rain in April than Austin. Amsterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Austin receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Austin and Amsterdam