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

Should you visit Amsterdam or Berlin?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Amsterdam or Berlin, 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. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Berlin

Berlin is a diverse, historic, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Amsterdam and Berlin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Berlin?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Amsterdam than Berlin. While Berlin is larger than Amsterdam, Amsterdam has more sights and attractions for tourists. Amsterdam is better known for its historical sights and impressive beauty, while Berlin is more popular for its museums, food, and shopping. Amsterdam is more touristy than Berlin and is popular for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. Also, Amsterdam is famous for The Rijksmuseum. Berlin is well known for its art scene, cultural activities, and war torn history.

How is Amsterdam different from Berlin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Berlin is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Amsterdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Berlin are among the most recognizable in the world. Famous landmarks include the rebuilt Reichstag, the Berlin Wall Memorial, and Berliner Fernsehturm. Many of the city's oldest and most famous museums are found on Museum Island, where you'll find the Pergamon Museum, the James Simon Gallery, the Altes Museum, and the Neues Museum, among others.

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.

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

Berlin 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 Berlin. There's a great international food scene, but also all of the traditional favorites like currywurst, spätzle, and schnitzel. You'll find many diverse food halls, street markets, and local restaurants, as well as a large selection of traditional German restaurants that cater to the tourists.

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 Berlin Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Berlin is a world class party destination. The nightlife scene here is legendary. There are club nights that last for days, bars and parties that appeal to every personality, and a diversity of venues that you can choose from. You'll find the classic techno warehouses, but there are also modern dance clubs, bunker parties, and raves.

Is Amsterdam or Berlin Better for Music?

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

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.

Berlin has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. From the raves to the techno parties, there is a hugely diverse music scene in the city. It is so much more than the stereotypical punk and techno music that Berlin is known for. Rock, pop, and other genres are popular as well.

Is Amsterdam or Berlin Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam is a great city for its old town. However, Berlin 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.

Berlin does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Berlin?

Berlin is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Amsterdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Berlin make it a world-class shopping destination. Bookshops, flea markets, luxury boutiques and artisan shops all make up the shopping scene in the city. Kurfürstendamm is one of the most famous shopping districts in the city.

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.

Is Amsterdam or Berlin Better for Families?

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

Berlin is a very kid-friendly city. The city has a number of great kid-friendly museums such as the Museum of Natural History and the Computer Games Museum. There's also Legoland, an impressive aquarium, and lots of parks and playgrounds to explore.

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 Berlin Better for Couples?

Amsterdam is a great city for its romantic activities. Also, Berlin is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

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.

Berlin is a good city for couples to visit. Romantic activities in the city include wandering through Schloss Charlottenburg gardens and learning to dance at Clärchen’s Ballhaus. For couples who enjoy a night out on the town, there are many great restaurants and nightclubs that you can check out.

Is Amsterdam or Berlin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam and Berlin are amazing places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Amsterdam. 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.

A large number of backpackers visit Berlin, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city has no shortage of hostels to choose from, many of which organize activities and tours that guests can enjoy.

Is Amsterdam or Berlin Better for Students?

Berlin is an unbeatable place for students. However, Amsterdam is not popular with students.

Berlin is a great destination for students. With it's rich culture and eclectic creative side, this city appeals to many international students. There's also a great social scene that is perfect for university students.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Amsterdam and Berlin.

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.

Berlin has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The transportation system is diverse and includes the S-Bahn, U-Bahn, buses, and trams.

Is Amsterdam or Berlin a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Berlin is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

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.

Berlin is a somewhat walkable city. While parts of the city are very walkable, the neighborhoods are spread out and the city covers a large amount of space, so walking isn't always practical.

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

Should I spend more time in Berlin or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Berlin?

Both Amsterdam and Berlin have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Berlin has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Berlin than Amsterdam. However, 2-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

One day in Amsterdam or Berlin?

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 Berlin. 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 Berlin?

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 cultural big city of Berlin. 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 Berlin?

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.

You'll find food and shopping around the artsy city of Berlin. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Amsterdam or Berlin?

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.

Berlin is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Berlin, 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 from Amsterdam, The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam, The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, and The Best Cultural Tours in Germany.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Berlin?

Berlin has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Amsterdam. When comparing the sizes of Amsterdam and Berlin, 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 Berlin?

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 Berlin in the Summer?

Both Berlin and Amsterdam during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Berlin this time of year.

Amsterdam is cooler than Berlin in the summer. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Berlin fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In Berlin, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Amsterdam. In the summer, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Berlin. Amsterdam gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Berlin receives 227 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Amsterdam or Berlin in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Amsterdam and Berlin. 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 Berlin for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In the autumn, Amsterdam is around the same temperature as Berlin. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Amsterdam in October average around 11°C (51°F), and Berlin averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Amsterdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Berlin during autumn. Amsterdam gets 99 hours of sunny skies, while Berlin receives 106 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Amsterdam usually receives more rain than Berlin. Amsterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Berlin in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Amsterdam as well as Berlin. Many travelers come to Amsterdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Berlin in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Berlin can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Amsterdam. In January, Amsterdam is generally much warmer than Berlin. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 2°C (36°F), and Berlin fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

In the winter, Amsterdam often gets more sunshine than Berlin. Amsterdam gets 46 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Berlin receives 42 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets more rain in January than Berlin. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Berlin in the Spring?

Both Berlin and Amsterdam are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Amsterdam in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Berlin for the activities around the city during these months.

Amsterdam is cooler than Berlin in the spring. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Berlin fluctuates around 9°C (47°F).

Amsterdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Berlin during spring. Amsterdam gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Berlin receives 160 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Amsterdam usually receives more rain than Berlin. Amsterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Berlin and Amsterdam