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

Should you visit Amsterdam or Bari?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Amsterdam or Bari, 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 laid-back, scenic, and historic 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.

Bari

Bari is a local, cultural, and authentic port city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

Amsterdam and Bari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Bari?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Amsterdam than Bari, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Amsterdam is more popular for its nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Bari is known for its food and beaches. Amsterdam is more touristy than Bari and is popular for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also home to The Rijksmuseum. Bari is popular for its authentic old town and its role as a ferry port for travelers headed across the Adriatic.

How is Amsterdam different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the great sights and museums in both Amsterdam and Bari.

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 Bari. The city is filled with historical sights and archeological ruins. San Nicola is the main basilica in town and a popular tourist sight. The Castello is also a highlight, as is San Sabino.

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

Bari 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, Bari is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. It's off-the-beaten-path vibe means that you won't find the overpriced tourist restaurants that have taken over more touristy cities. Instead you'll find locally owned pasta shops that cater to the town's residents. You can taste authentic Pugliese cuisine, which is centered around wheat and olive oil. Orecchiette is the local pasta and seafood is one of the most common staples.

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 Bari Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for nightlife.

Amsterdam is a must-see party destination. 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.

Bari offers plenty to do in the evening. The city really comes to life at night with many dance clubs, bars, and other fun venues. There's plenty of live music as well as jazz clubs and other local bars.

Is Amsterdam or Bari Better for Music?

Amsterdam is terrific for its music scene. However, Bari 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.

Bari is not a live music destination.

Is Amsterdam or Bari Better for Beaches?

Bari is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Amsterdam is not a beach destination.

Bari has a beach worth visiting. There's a sandy beach that you can reach by bus outside of the city center. There are also many great beaches around Puglia if you're willing to take a day trip or travel a bit farther.

Amsterdam is not a beach destination.

Is Amsterdam or Bari Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam and Bari both have great historical old towns that attract visitors.

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.

Bari is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is filled with historic sights, mazelike streets, and great food. It's pedestrian-only and, because Bari is not as popular with tourists, it holds on to its authentic charm.

Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Bari?

Amsterdam is a great city for its shopping areas. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for shopping.

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.

Bari is a great destination for shopping. You won't find the souvenir shops that you find in more touristy cities, so if you take the time to do some shopping while you're in town, you can enjoy a truly authentic and cultural experience.

Is Amsterdam or Bari Better for Families?

Bari is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Bari is a very kid-friendly port city. There are historical sites and castles to explore as well as the fun-filled Miragica amusement park. There's also an impressive underground city that will spark the kid's imagination. Other fun activities include visiting the nearby beaches, taking a kayak tour, or wandering around the old town.

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 Bari Better for Couples?

Amsterdam is a great city for couples. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city 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.

Bari is a nice destination for couples. The old town is filled with mazelike streets and the city has many unique activities that appeal to history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Is Amsterdam or Bari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Bari. There's plenty of hostels around town and the prices are usually very reasonable. Many backpackers pass through this port city on their way to Greece or other Adriatic destinations.

Is Amsterdam or Bari Better for Students?

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

Bari is a great port city to visit as a student. It's a great student city that offers access to many nearby Mediterranean destinations. There are also a number of historical sights within town that students can visit.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

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

Amsterdam is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Amsterdam can take you anywhere. 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.

Bari has a few public transit options. There are buses around town that are operated by the AMTAB.

Is Amsterdam or Bari a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city 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.

Bari is very walkable. The old town is pedestrian-only and best explored on foot. It's also about a 20 minute walk from the central train station.

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

Should I spend more time in Bari or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Bari?

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

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

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

Amsterdam is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find shopping and museums around the port city of Bari. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bari has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Amsterdam or Bari?

Amsterdam is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Bari. 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 port city has to offer. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Amsterdam or Bari?

Amsterdam is a historic big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the authentic port city of Bari. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Amsterdam or Bari?

Amsterdam is a laid-back city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Bari is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Historical Tours in Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Bari?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Bari. When comparing the sizes of Amsterdam and Bari, 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 Bari?

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 Bari in the Summer?

Both Bari and Amsterdam during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Amsterdam for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bari in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Amsterdam is cooler than Bari. Typically, the summer temperatures in Amsterdam in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Bari averages at about 25°C (76°F).

In Bari, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Amsterdam. In the summer, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Bari. Amsterdam gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 336 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets more rain in July than Bari. Amsterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Bari receives 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Bari in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Amsterdam and Bari. Many visitors come to Amsterdam in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bari for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Amsterdam is generally much colder than Bari. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 11°C (51°F), and Bari fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Bari during autumn. Amsterdam gets 99 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Amsterdam usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bari. Amsterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bari receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Bari in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Amsterdam as well as Bari. Most visitors come to Amsterdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Bari because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Amsterdam can be very cold during winter. Amsterdam is much colder than Bari in the winter. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Bari fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the winter, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Bari. Amsterdam gets 46 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 110 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Bari. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bari receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Bari in the Spring?

Both Bari and Amsterdam are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Bari this time of year.

In the spring, Amsterdam is much colder than Bari. Typically, the spring temperatures in Amsterdam in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Bari averages at about 14°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Bari. Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Bari during spring. Amsterdam gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 203 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Amsterdam usually receives more rain than Bari. Amsterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bari receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bari and Amsterdam