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

Should you visit Amsterdam or Auxerre?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Amsterdam or Auxerre, 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 historic, canal-lined, and party-oriented city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Auxerre

Auxerre is a under-rated, undiscovered, and authentic town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. And you can't forget about the food and museums.

Amsterdam and Auxerre: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Rijksmuseum
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Auxerre?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Amsterdam. Although Amsterdam and Auxerre are both popular with visitors, Amsterdam has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Amsterdam is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Auxerre is known for its food and small town charm. Amsterdam is more touristy than Auxerre and is popular for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also home to The Rijksmuseum. Auxerre is popular for its food, wine, and art history.

How is Amsterdam different from Auxerre?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Amsterdam
Auxerre

Amsterdam is great for its historical sights. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Amsterdam specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Auxerre is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Although the town is often overlooked by tourists, there are many nice cathedrals and churches around town.


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

Amsterdam
Auxerre

Auxerre 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 Auxerre. The town is a the heart of the wine industry, so you'll find many great restaurants where you can enjoy local food and wine.

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 Auxerre Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam
Auxerre

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. However, Auxerre is not a good destination for nightlife.

Amsterdam has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Most people don't head to Auxerre specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It has a quiet nightlife with some nice bars and pubs.

Is Amsterdam or Auxerre Better for Music?

Amsterdam
Auxerre

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Auxerre is not a live music destination.

Amsterdam has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city attracts its share of world renowned DJs and musicians. Popular music venues include Paradiso, De Melkweg, and Chicago Social Club.

Auxerre is not a live music destination.


Is Amsterdam or Auxerre Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam
Auxerre

Amsterdam is great for its historic old town charm. However, Auxerre does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights 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.

Auxerre does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Auxerre?

Amsterdam
Auxerre

Amsterdam is great for its shopping areas. However, Auxerre is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Amsterdam. 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.

Auxerre is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Amsterdam or Auxerre Better for Families?

Amsterdam
Auxerre

Auxerre 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 Auxerre. There's the Zoo de La Fleche and the Aquarium de Touraine. You can also wander through Musee de l'Avallon or des Plantes.

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 Auxerre Better for Couples?

Amsterdam
Auxerre

Amsterdam is great for couples. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

Amsterdam is a great city 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.

Auxerre is a nice destination for couples. There are many great eateries as well nice architecture and, of course, excellent wine.

Is Amsterdam or Auxerre Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam
Auxerre

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Auxerre is not a good destination for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Amsterdam, as it is a very popular city 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.

Auxerre is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a popular stop off on the backpacker circuit, but you will find some affordable accommodation options.

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

Amsterdam
Auxerre

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

Public transit in Amsterdam is top-notch. 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.

Auxerre has a few public transit options. There are buses around town.


Is Amsterdam or Auxerre a more walkable city?

Amsterdam
Auxerre

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

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

Auxerre is somewhat walkable. The center is walkable but it is a bit more difficult to navigate than some nearby towns.

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

Should I spend more time in Auxerre or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Auxerre?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Amsterdam or Auxerre to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Amsterdam than Auxerre because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Amsterdam, and 1-2 days is enough time in Auxerre.

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

Couples should spend more time in Amsterdam than Auxerre. 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 Auxerre 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.


  • How many days in Amsterdam or Auxerre? Ideal Length of Stay
    Amsterdam 2-7 
    Auxerre 1-2

One day in Amsterdam or Auxerre?

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.

You'll find food and museums around the town of Auxerre. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Auxerre has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Amsterdam or Auxerre?

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.

You'll find museums and food around the under-rated destination of Auxerre. 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.


Five days in Amsterdam or Auxerre?

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.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the under-rated town of Auxerre. 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 Auxerre?

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.

Auxerre 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, and The Best 2-Week Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Auxerre or Amsterdam?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Amsterdam is €175, while the average daily cost in Auxerre is €113. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Amsterdam and Auxerre in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Amsterdam 102
    Auxerre 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Amsterdam 204
    Auxerre 102
Compare Hotels in Amsterdam and Auxerre

Looking for a hotel in Amsterdam or Auxerre? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Amsterdam


Hotels in Auxerre


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Amsterdam Hotel Prices and Auxerre Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Amsterdam 20
    Auxerre 46
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Amsterdam

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Amsterdam:


  • Ride on Tram
    3.20
  • Renting a Bike
    15
  • One Hour Canal Cruise
    10
  • Single Day Transit Pass
    2.60
  • Transit Pass to Amsterdam Airport
    3.40

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Amsterdam

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Amsterdam:

  • Private Transfer to/from Bruges: $823
  • Kinderdijk & Delft Private Day Trip w/ Transfers: $802
  • Private Transfer to/from Brussels: $738
  • Private Transfer to/from Antwerp: $588
  • Private Transfer to Bruges: $385
  • Amsterdam Cruise Port: Private Transfer to The Hague hotels: $333
  • Rotterdam: Private transfer to/from Schiphol Airport: $310
  • Amsterdam and Rotterdam: 1-Way Private Transfer: $310
  • Schiphol Airport Private Transfer to Brussels: $291
  • Luxury transfer From Amsterdam Schiphol airport to Rotterdam Cruise terminal : $284
  • Private Direct Transfer from Amsterdam to Bruges: $274
  • Private Minivan transfer to Rotterdam: $273

Is it cheaper to fly into Amsterdam or Auxerre?

Prices for flights to both Auxerre and Amsterdam change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Amsterdam 43
    Auxerre 34
Typical Food Prices in Amsterdam

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Amsterdam:


  • Afternoon Tea
    6.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Amsterdam

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Amsterdam.

  • Food Tour Amsterdam (Tip Based): $5.45
  • Amsterdam Self-Guided Food Tour in De Pijp Neighbourhood : $8.18
  • Self-Guided Food Tour in De Pijp Neighbourhood: $13
  • Self-Guided Food Tour in De Jordaan Neighbourhood: $13
  • Self-Guided Food Tour of Amsterdam's De Jordaan District: $14
  • Exclusive Burger Dinner Cruise: $32
  • Pizza Cruise with Drinks: $40
  • Evening Canal Cruise with Pizza and Drinks: $42
  • Amsterdam Nightlife Ticket with A GOLD MENU Hard Rock Dinner: $43
  • Burger Dinner Cruise through the Amsterdam Canals: $43
  • Food Tour Jordaan District: $51
  • Food Tour Amsterdam's Jordaan District Self-Guided: $52

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Amsterdam 37
    Auxerre 18
Typical Entertainment Prices in Amsterdam

Here are a few typical costs in Amsterdam for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Two tickets to the Houseboat Museum
    6.00
  • Entry for two to the Anne Frank House
    17

Tours and Activities in Amsterdam

Here are a few actual costs in Amsterdam for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Amstagram Tour & Moco Experience: $53
  • Anne Frank Story & Neighborhood Walk Tour in Amsterdam: $46
  • 1 Hour Private Amsterdam Rickshaw Tour : $109
  • 1, 2 or 3-7 Days Nightclubs & Best Nightlife in Amsterdam Ticket: $14
  • 1-Hour Canal Cruise in the Evening : $22
  • 2 Hour Exclusive Canal Boat Cruise w/ Dutch snacks & Onboard Bar: $42
  • 2 Hour Exclusive Canal Cruise: Including drinks & Dutch snacks: $63
  • 2 Hours Canal Cruise to Amsterdam’s Hidden Gems: $84
  • 2 Hours Private Amsterdam Rickshaw Tour: $213
  • 2 hours Amsterdam City Tour in Pedicab: $218
  • 3 Hour Self-guided Cocktail Walking Tour in Amsterdam by WOGO: $44
  • 3 hour Amsterdam Private Guide Walking Tour with an Amsterdam born raised Guide: $186

Tours and Activities in Auxerre

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Auxerre.

  • Chocolate Tour with Tasting: $16
  • e-Mehari Tour et dégustation Chablis Clotilde Davenne: $92
  • Touristic highlights of Auxerre a Private half day tour (4 Hours) with a local: $112

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Amsterdam 24
    Auxerre 6.14

Sample the Local Flavors in Amsterdam

Also in Amsterdam, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Amsterdam Private Self-Guided Pub Crawl Pub Quiz: $21
  • Amsterdam Private Self Guided Pub Crawl: $22
  • Bar Crawl with Shots and Beer Maid Guide: $25
  • Central Pub Crawl and Nightlife Experience: $27
  • Red Light District Pub Crawl: $27
  • Distillery Tour & Tasting at Spirited Union: $27
  • Original Pub Crawl Party with VIP Entrance: $29
  • Chateau Urban Wine Tasting and optional bites: $32
  • Self-guided Red Light District Pub Crawl Mystery: $37
  • Leidseplein and Red Light Pub Crawl: 2 Night Pass: $37
  • Red Light District and Local Pub Tour: $39
  • Dutch Cheese and Wine Tasting: $42

Sample the Local Flavors in Auxerre

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Auxerre:

  • From Dutch Barge Full-Day Cruise with Wine Tasting: $85
  • Chablis & Northern Burgundy Wine Tour: $273


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Amsterdam and Auxerre, we can see that Amsterdam is more expensive. And not only is Auxerre much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Auxerre would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Auxerre 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 Auxerre.

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


Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Auxerre?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Auxerre. When comparing the sizes of Amsterdam and Auxerre, 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 Auxerre?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Auxerre in the Summer?

Both Auxerre and Amsterdam during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Amsterdam for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Auxerre because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Amsterdam is cooler than Auxerre. Typically, the summer temperatures in Amsterdam in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Auxerre averages at about 19°C (66°F).

In Auxerre, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Amsterdam. In the summer, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Auxerre. Amsterdam gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auxerre receives 255 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets more rain in July than Auxerre. Amsterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Amsterdam 17°C (62°F) 
    Auxerre 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Amsterdam or Auxerre in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Amsterdam and Auxerre. 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. Also, the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Auxerre this time of year.

In October, Amsterdam is generally cooler than Auxerre. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 11°C (51°F), and Auxerre fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Auxerre during autumn. Amsterdam gets 99 hours of sunny skies, while Auxerre receives 126 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Amsterdam usually receives more rain than Auxerre. Amsterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Amsterdam 11°C (51°F) 
    Auxerre 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Amsterdam or Auxerre in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Amsterdam as well as Auxerre. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Amsterdam this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Auxerre for the museums and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Auxerre. It's quite cold in Amsterdam in the winter. Amsterdam is cooler than Auxerre in the winter. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Auxerre fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Auxerre. Amsterdam gets 46 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auxerre receives 53 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets more rain in January than Auxerre. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Amsterdam 2°C (36°F) 
    Auxerre 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Amsterdam or Auxerre in the Spring?

Both Auxerre and Amsterdam are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Amsterdam for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Auxerre in the spring for the small town charm.

In the spring, Amsterdam is cooler than Auxerre. Typically, the spring temperatures in Amsterdam in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Auxerre averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Amsterdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Auxerre during spring. Amsterdam gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Auxerre receives 167 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Amsterdam usually receives around the same amount of rain as Auxerre. Amsterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Amsterdam 8°C (46°F) 
    Auxerre 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Auxerre and Amsterdam

Amsterdam Auxerre
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 3°C (37°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in) 10°C (50°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 19°C (66°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 5°C (41°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)