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

Should you visit Amsterdam or Chartres?

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

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

Chartres

Chartres is a grand, spectacular, and historic 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. See Chartres travel costs.

Amsterdam and Chartres: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Rijksmuseum
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Chartres?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Amsterdam than Chartres, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Amsterdam is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Chartres is more popular for its food and small town charm. Amsterdam is more touristy than Chartres and is popular for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. Also, Amsterdam is famous for The Rijksmuseum. Chartres is well known for its beautiful cathedral and long running history.

How is Amsterdam different from Chartres?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Amsterdam
Chartres

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

Amsterdam offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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 Chartres. Most visitors make the trip to see the spectacular Gothic cathedral, Cathédrale Notre-Dame. It was completed in 1220 and is famous for its beautiful stained glass windows.


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

Amsterdam
Chartres

Chartres 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 Chartres. There are a number of restaurants around town so it's easy to grab lunch during a day trip.

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 Chartres Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam
Chartres

Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. However, Chartres is not a good destination for its evening party scene.

Amsterdam is a world class 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.

Most people don't head to Chartres specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There are a few bars where you can grab a drink while you're in town.

Is Amsterdam or Chartres Better for Music?

Amsterdam
Chartres

Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Chartres is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Amsterdam. The city attracts its share of world renowned DJs and musicians. Popular music venues include Paradiso, De Melkweg, and Chicago Social Club.

Chartres is not a live music destination.


Is Amsterdam or Chartres Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam
Chartres

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

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Chartres does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Chartres?

Amsterdam
Chartres

Amsterdam is great for its shopping opportunities. However, Chartres is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Amsterdam is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Chartres is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Amsterdam or Chartres More Beautiful?

Amsterdam
Chartres

Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Chartres is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Amsterdam because of it's amazing beauty. With its beautiful canals, historic churches, and relaxing parks, this is a beautiful city.

Chartres is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Amsterdam or Chartres Better for Families?

Amsterdam
Chartres

Most people don't think of either Amsterdam or Chartres as a family destination.

Amsterdam doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. 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.

For families, Chartres is not always the best place to visit. The main attraction in town is the cathedral, but the surrounding area is also filled with history. This may not keep your kids entertained for long, so you can also check out the Stained Glass Museum, La Tanière (a zoo), or one of the parks around town.

Is Amsterdam or Chartres Better for Couples?

Amsterdam
Chartres

Amsterdam is great for its romantic activities. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Chartres is a good city for couples to visit. With its cathedral and rich history, many couples enjoy exploring the town. It is filled with history and interesting sights.

Is Amsterdam or Chartres Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam
Chartres

Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Amsterdam is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Chartres is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's easy enough to visit as a day trip from Paris, so backpackers and other tourists typically allow themselves a few hours to explore.


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

Amsterdam
Chartres

Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

Amsterdam has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. 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.

Chartres offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are trains that leave Paris Montparnasse 1 Et 2 every half hour and travel to Chartres. The trip takes about 1 hour 15 minutes.

Is Amsterdam or Chartres a more walkable city?

Amsterdam
Chartres

Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Chartres is a very walkable destination. It's easy to see the sights around town on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Chartres or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Chartres?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Amsterdam or Chartres to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Amsterdam than Chartres 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 Chartres.

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

Couples should spend more time in Amsterdam than Chartres. 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 Chartres 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 Chartres? Ideal Length of Stay
    Amsterdam 2-7 
    Chartres 1-2

One day in Amsterdam or Chartres?

Amsterdam is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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


A weekend in Amsterdam or Chartres?

Amsterdam is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Amsterdam, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find museums and food around the spectacular destination of Chartres. 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 Chartres?

Amsterdam is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Amsterdam, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the historic town of Chartres. 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 Chartres?

Amsterdam is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Amsterdam has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Chartres 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Netherlands, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Chartres or Amsterdam?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Amsterdam is €206, while the average daily cost in Chartres is €145. 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 Chartres in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Amsterdam 102
    Chartres 59
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Amsterdam 204
    Chartres 118
Compare Hotels in Amsterdam and Chartres

Looking for a hotel in Amsterdam or Chartres? 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 Chartres


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 Chartres Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Amsterdam 20
    Chartres 26
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: $825
  • Private Transfer to/from Brussels: $804
  • Private Transfer to/from Antwerp: $616
  • Private Transfer from Zeebrugge to Amsterdam By Luxury car: $481
  • Transfer Amsterdam - Schiphol Airport: $386
  • Amsterdam Cruise Port: Private Transfer to The Hague hotels: $333
  • Rotterdam: Private transfer to/from Schiphol Airport: $311
  • Amsterdam & Rotterdam Cruise Port: 1-Way Private Transfer: $311
  • Schiphol & Cruise Port Rotterdam: 1-Way Private Transfer: $311
  • Schiphol Airport Private Transfer to Brussels: $293
  • 1-15 persons Taxi or Bus Transfer Amsterdam Airport to Dordrecht: $290
  • 1-15 pers Taxi/Bus Transfer Amsterdam Airport to 's-Hertogenbosch: $290

Is it cheaper to fly into Amsterdam or Chartres?

Prices for flights to both Chartres 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 75
    Chartres 67
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.

  • Amsterdam Self-Guided Food Tour in De Pijp Neighbourhood : $8.24
  • Pizza Cruise in Amsterdam Including Drinks and Ice Cream: $41
  • 3-course Dinner in the Dark Amsterdam: $57
  • 3-course dinner party at a secret pop-up restaurant: $60
  • Devour Amsterdam Ultimate Food Tour : $83
  • Small-Group Guided Sunset Canoe Tour in Waterland with Dinner: $86
  • Guided Cultural Food Tour in Amsterdam : $93
  • 10 Tastes of Food Tour by UNESCO Canals and Jordaan: $93
  • #1 Food Tour in Jordaan & West: eat & enjoy with a local guide: $93
  • French Bistro-Style Dinner Overlooking Amsterdam's Canals: $96
  • Dinner Canal Cruise 4-Courses Including Drinks: $98
  • Discover Amsterdam's Culinary Scene: Morning Food Tour: $108

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Amsterdam 37
    Chartres 22
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:

  • Amsterdam Must-See Attractions Guided Walking Tour With A Guide: $33
  • 1 Hour Canal Cruise in Amsterdam: $22
  • 1 Hour Private Amsterdam Rickshaw Tour : $110
  • 1,5 hours Amsterdam Rickshaw Tour: $165
  • 1-Hour Amsterdam Evening Canal Cruise: $19
  • 2 Hour Small Group Canal Cruise w/ Dutch snacks & Onboard Bar: $47
  • 2 hour food tasting Tour in Amsterdam Group Tour: $99
  • 2-Hour Private Historical Highlights Walking Tour: $165
  • 2.5 hours Amsterdam Pedicab Tour: $264
  • 3 hour Amsterdam Private Guide Walking Tour with an Amsterdam born raised Guide: $187
  • 5dporn experience: adres Oudekerksplein 18 Amsterdam : $16
  • 75 minute Blue Boat Company City Canal Cruise and Maritime Museum: $42

Tours and Activities in Chartres

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

  • Cathedral and City Guided Tour: $268
  • A half-day tour of Chartres Cathedral and Medieval City: $482
  • Private tour of Chartres town from Paris: $590

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Amsterdam 24
    Chartres 12

Sample the Local Flavors in Amsterdam

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

  • Original Amsterdam Pub Crawl: $26
  • Cheese and Wine tasting in Amsterdam: $27
  • Distillery Tour & Tasting at Spirited Union: $27
  • Amsterdam Private Pub Crawl in the City Center: $28
  • Amsterdam New Year's Eve Pub Crawl: $76
  • Beerbrewery tour in old Church to taste the best local beers.: $275


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

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


Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Chartres?

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

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 Chartres in the Summer?

Both Chartres and Amsterdam during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Amsterdam in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Chartres for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Amsterdam is cooler than Chartres in the summer. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Chartres fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In Chartres, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Amsterdam. In the summer, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Chartres. Amsterdam gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chartres receives 239 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets more rain in July than Chartres. Amsterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Amsterdam 17°C (62°F) 
    Chartres 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Amsterdam or Chartres in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Amsterdam and Chartres. Most visitors come to Amsterdam for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Chartres because of the small town atmosphere.

In the autumn, Amsterdam is cooler than Chartres. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Amsterdam in October average around 11°C (51°F), and Chartres averages at about 13°C (56°F).

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

In October, Amsterdam usually receives more rain than Chartres. Amsterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Amsterdam 11°C (51°F) 
    Chartres 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Amsterdam or Chartres in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Amsterdam as well as Chartres. The winter months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Chartres this time of year.

It's quite cold in Chartres in the winter. The weather in Amsterdam can be very cold. In January, Amsterdam is generally much colder than Chartres. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 2°C (36°F), and Chartres fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Chartres. Amsterdam gets 46 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chartres receives 56 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets more rain in January than Chartres. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Amsterdam 2°C (36°F) 
    Chartres 5°C (40°F)

Should I visit Amsterdam or Chartres in the Spring?

Both Chartres and Amsterdam are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Amsterdam this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Chartres for the small town charm.

Amsterdam is cooler than Chartres in the spring. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Chartres fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Amsterdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Chartres during spring. Amsterdam gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Chartres receives 173 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Amsterdam usually receives more rain than Chartres. Amsterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Amsterdam 8°C (46°F) 
    Chartres 11°C (52°F)

Typical Weather for Chartres and Amsterdam

Amsterdam Chartres
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 5°C (40°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 8°C (47°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in) 11°C (52°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 20°C (68°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 20°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (56°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 5°C (42°F) 51 mm (2 in)