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

Should you visit Amsterdam or Boston?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Amsterdam or Boston, 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. 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.

Boston

Boston is a loyal, historic, and traditional city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Amsterdam and Boston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Boston?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Amsterdam than Boston. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Amsterdam is very popular for its nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Boston attracts visitors for its museums, theatre productions, food, beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere. Amsterdam is more touristy than Boston and is known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Rijksmuseum. Boston is famous for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities.

How is Amsterdam different from Boston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Boston 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 Boston are among the most recognizable in the world. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

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 Amsterdam or Boston Better for Theater?

Boston is well known for its theatre productions. However, Amsterdam is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Boston. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Amsterdam is not a theatre destination.

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

Boston 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 Boston. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

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 Boston Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Boston has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

Is Amsterdam or Boston Better for Music?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for live music. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its live music scene.

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.

The music scene in Boston is active and vibrant. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Is Amsterdam or Boston Better for Beaches?

Boston is a city with a few options for the beache. However, Amsterdam is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Boston. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Amsterdam is not a beach destination.

Is Amsterdam or Boston Better for its Old Town?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its old town. Also, Amsterdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

With a famous historical old-town, Boston offers plenty to see. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Boston?

Amsterdam is notable for shopping. Also, Boston 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 Boston. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Is Amsterdam or Boston Better for Christmas?

Boston is well known for its Christmas activities. However, Amsterdam does not offer Christmas activities.

Visitors come from all around to experience the Christmas activities in Boston. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Amsterdam does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Amsterdam or Boston Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is well known for its Christmas markets. However, Amsterdam does not offer Christmas markets.

Boston has a large number of Christmas markets. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Amsterdam does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Amsterdam or Boston Better for Families?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Boston is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around 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 Boston Better for Couples?

Amsterdam is notable for romance. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Amsterdam is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Boston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Is Amsterdam or Boston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Boston 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 budget travelers visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Is Amsterdam or Boston Better for Students?

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

Boston is a great destination for students. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

Is Amsterdam or Boston 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 Boston.

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.

Boston has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

Is Amsterdam or Boston a more walkable city?

Amsterdam and Boston both are world-class when exploring on foot.

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.

Boston is a very easy city to get around on foot. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Boston or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Boston?

In either Amsterdam or Boston, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Amsterdam than Boston because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Amsterdam, and 3-5 days is enough time in Boston.

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

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

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 museums and theater around the city of Boston. 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.

A weekend in Amsterdam or Boston?

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 theater and nightlife around the loyal big city of Boston. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Amsterdam or Boston?

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 nightlife and live music around the proud city of Boston. 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. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Amsterdam or Boston?

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.

Boston 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 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Amsterdam and Boston, we can see that Boston is more expensive. And not only is Amsterdam much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Amsterdam is in Europe and Boston 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 Amsterdam would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Amsterdam 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 Boston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Boston than you might in Amsterdam.

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

Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Boston?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 26% larger than the population of Boston. When comparing the sizes of Amsterdam and Boston, 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 Boston?

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 Boston in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Amsterdam and Boston. Many travelers come to Amsterdam for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Boston in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Amsterdam is generally cooler than Boston. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 17°C (62°F), and Boston fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Boston this time of the year. In Amsterdam, it's very sunny this time of the year. Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Boston during summer. Amsterdam gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 304 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Amsterdam usually receives around the same amount of rain as Boston. Amsterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Boston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Boston in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Amsterdam as well as Boston. 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. Also, most visitors come to Boston for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Amsterdam is cooler than Boston in the autumn. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Boston fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

In the autumn, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Boston. Amsterdam gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 194 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets less rain in October than Boston. Amsterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Boston in the Winter?

Both Boston and Amsterdam are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Amsterdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Boston because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

The weather in Boston can be very cold. Amsterdam can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Amsterdam is much warmer than Boston. Typically, the winter temperatures in Amsterdam in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Boston averages at about 29°F (-2°C).

Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Boston during winter. Amsterdam gets 46 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Amsterdam usually receives less rain than Boston. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Boston in the Spring?

Both Boston and Amsterdam during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Boston this time of year.

In April, Amsterdam is generally cooler than Boston. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 8°C (46°F), and Boston fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

In Boston, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Boston. Amsterdam gets 166 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 225 hours of full sun.

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

Typical Weather for Boston and Amsterdam