Which place is cheaper, Calgary or Amsterdam?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
Jump to 
Should you visit Amsterdam or Calgary?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
If you're trying to decide where to visit between Amsterdam or Calgary, 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 party-oriented, laid-back, and scenic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.
Calgary
Calgary is a local, authentic, and western city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.
Amsterdam and Calgary: Pros and Cons
Amsterdam
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Active nightlife
- Good music scene
- Scenic old town
- 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
- Less family-friendly
Calgary
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Less popular for nightlife
- Less popular with backpackers
- Public transit not as usable
- Less walkable
Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Calgary?
Visitors will generally find more to do in Amsterdam than Calgary. While Calgary is larger than Amsterdam, Amsterdam has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Amsterdam is more touristy than Calgary and is known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. Also, Amsterdam is famous for The Rijksmuseum. Calgary is well known for its farming and oil industries as well as the Calgary Stampede.
How is Amsterdam different from Calgary?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Calgary 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 Calgary?
Amsterdam
Calgary
Amsterdam is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.
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.
If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Calgary. It's worth visiting the Calgary Zoo, Fort Calgary, the Hangar Flight Museum, and Heritage Park, among others.
Is the Food Better in Amsterdam or Calgary? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?
Amsterdam
Calgary
Dining out at restaurants in both Amsterdam and Calgary can be an enjoyable experience.
You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Amsterdam. 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!
Calgary may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The food scene is constantly evolving and you'll find plenty of casual restaurants. The city is known for its beef, so you should definitely sample a local steak.
Is Amsterdam or Calgary Better for Nightlife?
Amsterdam
Calgary
Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.
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.
If you're looking for night time activities Calgary has a few options to choose from. Visitors often head to Stephen Avenue Walk for its bars and pubs. There's also a decent theater scene around town.
Is Amsterdam or Calgary Better for Music?
Amsterdam
Calgary
Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Calgary is not a live music destination.
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.
Calgary is not a live music destination.
Is Amsterdam or Calgary Better for its Old Town?
Amsterdam
Calgary
Amsterdam is well known for its old town. However, Calgary does not have a historic old town.
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.
Calgary does not have a historic old town.
Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Calgary?
Amsterdam
Calgary
Amsterdam is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.
Amsterdam is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.
Calgary has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are plenty of independent shops around town as well as some great shopping neighborhoods. Make sure you check out Fourth Street and 17th Avenue. There are also large shopping malls.
Is Amsterdam or Calgary Better for Families?
Amsterdam
Calgary
Calgary 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 Calgary. There are a surprising number of things around town to do with kids such as petting zoos, museums, and even amusement parks. The Calgary Zoo is worth a visit, but also make sure you check out Calaway Park Amusement Park and the Telus Spark science center.
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 Calgary Better for Couples?
Amsterdam
Calgary
Amsterdam is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.
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.
Calgary is a good city for couples to visit. You'll find outdoor sports, boat tours, and plenty of great restaurants around town. If you're looking for a low key destination with a great vibe, then this is a great city for a weekend trip.
Is Amsterdam or Calgary Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?
Amsterdam
Calgary
Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.
Plenty of backpackers visit Calgary. A surprising number of backpackers end up passing through town, so you'll find a handful of hostels to choose from.
Is Amsterdam or Calgary Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?
Amsterdam
Calgary
Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.
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.
While Calgary offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The public transportation system is relatively efficient with both light rail and buses.
Is Amsterdam or Calgary a more walkable city?
Amsterdam
Calgary
Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. However, Calgary is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.
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.
Calgary is generally not a very walkable city. While there are a couple of walkable neighborhood's around town, it's definitely not the most walkable city.
For even more information, also check out Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting? and Is Calgary Worth Visiting?.
Should I spend more time in Calgary or Amsterdam?
How long in Amsterdam or Calgary?
You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Amsterdam or Calgary to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Amsterdam than Calgary 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 Calgary.
Families should spend more time in Calgary than Amsterdam. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Calgary, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in Amsterdam than Calgary. 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 Calgary 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 Calgary? Ideal Length of StayAmsterdam 2-7Calgary 1-2
One day in Amsterdam or Calgary?
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 shopping and museums around the city of Calgary. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Calgary has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.
A weekend in Amsterdam or Calgary?
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 nightlife around the western destination of Calgary. 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 Calgary?
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 nightlife and shopping when visiting the authentic city of Calgary. 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 Calgary?
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.
Calgary 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Canada, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Canada.
-
Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayAmsterdam €175Calgary €141
The average daily cost (per person) in Amsterdam is €175, while the average daily cost in Calgary is €141. 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 Calgary in more detail.
Accommodation
-
Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personAmsterdam €102Calgary €67
-
Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomAmsterdam €204Calgary €134
Compare Hotels in Amsterdam and Calgary
Looking for a hotel in Amsterdam or Calgary? 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.
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 Calgary Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
-
Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Amsterdam €20Calgary €11
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:
- 1-15 persons Taxi or Bus Transfer Airport Amsterdam to Amsterdam : $142
- 1-15 persons Taxi or Bus Transfer Airport Amsterdam to Den Haag: $285
- 1-15 persons Taxi or Bus Transfer Amsterdam Airport to Enkhuizen: $231
- 1-15 persons Taxi or Bus Transfer Amsterdam Airport to Hoorn: $191
- 1-15 persons Taxi or Bus Transfer Amsterdam Airport to Noordwijk: $133
- 1-15 persons Taxi or Bus Transfer Amsterdam Airport to Utrecht: $256
- 1-15 persons Taxi or Bus Transfer Amsterdam city to Airport: $114
- 1-15 persons Taxi or Bus Transfer Amsterdam in Amsterdam City: $108
- AMS Schiphol Airport VIP Meet and Assist Pickup (with Hotel Private Transfer): $199
- Airport Private Transfer: Schiphol Airport ↔ Amsterdam City: $142
- Airport Private Transfer: Schiphol Airport ↔ The Hague City : $222
- Airport Transfer: Amsterdam to Schiphol Airport AMS by Luxury Van: $101
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Calgary
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Calgary:
- Alberta Transfer: Banff, Jasper, Lake Louise, Calgary: $69
- Arrival Private Transfer: Calgary Airport YYC to Calgary in Luxury SUV: $134
- Arrival Private Transfer: Calgary Airport YYC to Calgary in Luxury Van: $134
- Banff To Calgary Airport - Private Transfer: $369
- Banff to Calgary Airport | Private Transfer: $295
- Calgary Airport (YYC) to Banff | Private Transfer: $185
- Calgary Airport (YYC) to Calgary hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $120
- Calgary Airport (YYC) to Calgary hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $239
- Calgary Airport (YYC) to Lake Louise - Arrival Private Transfer: $120
- Calgary Airport (YYC) to Lake Louise | Private Transfer: $299
- Calgary Airport to Banff | Private Transfer: $221
- Calgary Airport to Canmore | Private Transfer: $184
Is it cheaper to fly into Amsterdam or Calgary?
Prices for flights to both Calgary 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 dayAmsterdam €43Calgary €28
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): $5.69
- Self-Guided Food Tour in De Jordaan Neighbourhood: $14
- Self-Guided Food Tour in De Pijp Neighbourhood: $14
- Pizza Cruise with Drinks: $26
- Hard Rock Cafe Amsterdam with Set Lunch or Dinner: $32
- Evening Canal Cruise with Pizza and Drinks: $33
- A'DAM Lookout Entry Ticket and Dinner Voucher: $40
- Amsterdam Nightlife Ticket with A GOLD MENU Hard Rock Dinner: $45
- Food Tour Amsterdam's Jordaan District Self-Guided: $54
- 3 Course Dinner in the Dark: $58
- 3-course dinner party at a secret pop-up restaurant: $63
- Dutch Street Food Tour on Amsterdam Market: $67
Typical Food Prices in Calgary
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Calgary:
-
Bread, Chips, Cheese€7.39
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Calgary
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Calgary.
- Light Brunch & Food Tour at Calgary Farmers' Market WEST: $82
- Iconic Eats of Calgary Food Tour: $114
- Iconic Eats of Calgary Food Tour: $131
Entertainment
-
Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Amsterdam €37Calgary €14
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:
- Golden Age Canals Walking Tour: $1.12
- Free walking tour of haunted Amsterdam: $1.12
- Rude Bastards Tour of Amsterdam: $3.35
- Best of Amsterdam City Tour: $3.35
- The Amsterdam Walking Tour 2 hours: $3.40
- Two-hour walking tour of Amsterdam: $3.40
- Amsterdam Spanish Tour 2 Hours: $3.40
- Self Guided Tours Amsterdam With 100 Captivating Audio Stories: $3.40
- Amsterdam 2H Dark History of the City Walking Tour: $3.41
- Rude Bastards Tour of Amsterdam (CYHIT): $3.41
- Self Guided City Tour in Amsterdam - Amsterdam Tulip: $4.55
- Amsterdam Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $4.55
Typical Entertainment Prices in Calgary
Here are a few typical costs in Calgary for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:
-
Stampede Admission (for 2)€20
Tours and Activities in Calgary
Here are a few actual costs in Calgary for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
- Bow River Trail Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $5.17
- Downtown Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $5.17
- Tips-Based City Highlights Walking Tour | 3-Hour: $6.66
- Explore the Stampede City with Walking Tours in Calgary: $6.82
- Calgary Flames Ice Hockey Game Ticket: $13
- Calgary Flames Ice Hockey Game Ticket at Scotiabank Saddledome: $13
- Rocky Mountains: Smartphone Driving and Walking Audio Tours: $15
- Banff Audio Guided Tour from Calgary: $16
- Drive Calgary to Banff: Ultimate Scenic Self-Guided Tour: $20
- Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Calgary with Holly Jolly Hunt: $21
- Calgary Downtown: 2-Hour Introductory Walking Tour: $22
- Heritage Park Historical Village Admission Ticket: $26
Alcohol
-
Alcohol Drinks for one dayAmsterdam €24Calgary €10
Sample the Local Flavors in Amsterdam
Also in Amsterdam, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
- Ludwig's Pub Crawl with VIP Club Entry: $0.89
- Amsterdam Private Self Guided Pub Crawl: $23
- Breugem Meeting Point: Brewery tour and beer tasting: $23
- City Centre Bar Crawl and Nightlife Experience: $25
- Bar Crawl with Shots and Beer Maid Guide: $26
- Ludwig's Queer Pub Crawl with VIP Club Entry: $26
- Original Pub Crawl Party with VIP Entrance: $26
- Red Light District Pub Crawl with Unlimited Shots: $27
- City Center Bar Crawl and Nightlife Experience: $27
- Amsterdam Private Pub Crawl in the City Center: $29
- Urban Wine Tasting with Optional Bites: $33
- Cheese and Wine Tasting in Urban Winery: $39
Sample the Local Flavors in Calgary
Also in Calgary, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
- Calgary Bar Crawl: Cruisin' Calgary: $12
- Calgary Brewery and Wine Tours at Award Winning Venues: $84
- Calgary Brewery Tour: $91
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Amsterdam and Calgary, we can see that Amsterdam is more expensive. And not only is Calgary much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Amsterdam is in Europe and Calgary 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 Calgary would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Calgary 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 Calgary.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Amsterdam Expensive? and Is Calgary Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Calgary?
Calgary has a larger population, and is about 38% larger than the population of Amsterdam. When comparing the sizes of Amsterdam and Calgary, 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.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.