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

Should you visit Amsterdam or Chicago?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Amsterdam or Chicago, 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 historic, canal-lined, and party-oriented city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Chicago

Chicago is a vibrant, multicultural, and edgey city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and shopping.

Amsterdam and Chicago: Pros and Cons

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
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Rijksmuseum
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Willis Tower (previously the Sears Tower)
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Chicago?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chicago than Amsterdam, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Chicago is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, beaches, shopping, and christmas markets, while Amsterdam is known for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Amsterdam is more touristy than Chicago and is known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. Chicago is popular for its thriving sports scene, its iconic local cuisine, and its world class shopping at the Magnificent Mile. It is also home to The Willis Tower (previously the Sears Tower).

How is Amsterdam different from Chicago?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Amsterdam
Chicago

Chicago 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 Chicago are among the most recognizable in the world. There are countless landmarks, museums, and iconic sights in the area. Some of the most famous are the Art Institute of Chicago, Adler Planetarium, and the Museum of Science and Industry. Notable landmarks include the famous Willis Tower - formerly the Sears Tower, Buckingham Fountain, and the iconic Cloud Gate (the bean).

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 Chicago Better for Theater?

Amsterdam
Chicago

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its theatre productions. However, Amsterdam is not a theatre destination.

Famous for its theaters and plays, you'll find world-renowned shows in Chicago. Theater is big here with many of the major Broadway productions visiting the city. There is also an endless list of smaller, local theaters to choose from.

Amsterdam is not a theatre destination.

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

Amsterdam
Chicago

Chicago 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, Chicago is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. With everything from award-winning luxury restaurants to local dives, this city has something for everyone. It also has very distinct local flavors and dishes that create an identity and bring great pride to the locals. While you're in town you have to try the famous deep dish pizza, Chicago style hot dogs, and Italian beef.

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 Chicago Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam
Chicago

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

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.

Chicago is a world class party destination. It has a wide range of activities at night, with everything from theater and comedy clubs to dance venues, sporting events, and local bars. It's easy to fill many evenings with whatever activity appeals to you. Popular bars and clubs include the Smart Bar, Beauty Bar, and Le Nocturne.


Is Amsterdam or Chicago Better for Music?

Amsterdam
Chicago

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

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.

Chicago has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city is the birthplace of such interesting styles as modern gospel and the Chicago style blues.

Is Amsterdam or Chicago Better for Beaches?

Amsterdam
Chicago

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

Chicago has a beach worth visiting. While you don't immediately think of beaches when you think of Chicago, there are some nice beaches by the lake. If the weather is nice, it's a great area to spend some time.

Amsterdam is not a beach destination.

Is Amsterdam or Chicago Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam
Chicago

Amsterdam is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Chicago does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of 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.

Chicago does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Chicago?

Amsterdam
Chicago

Chicago 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 Chicago make it a world-class shopping destination. There are countless neighborhoods that are filled with boutiques, local vendors, and art galleries. The city has some of the country's best shopping opportunities, and the most notable area is the famous Michigan Avenue and the Magnificent Mile.

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 Chicago Better for Christmas?

Amsterdam
Chicago

Chicago 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 Chicago. There's a number of seasonal celebrations, ice skating, and excellent shopping.

Amsterdam does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Amsterdam or Chicago Better for Christmas Markets?

Amsterdam
Chicago

Chicago is a nice place to visit for its Christmas markets. However, Amsterdam does not offer Christmas markets.

Chicago has Christmas markets worth visiting. Shopping is a highlight of a trip to the city, and the Christkindlmarkt is not to be missed.

Amsterdam does not offer Christmas markets.


Is Amsterdam or Chicago Better for Families?

Amsterdam
Chicago

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

Chicago is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. The city has a large number of activities for kids, including zoos, Shedd Aquarium, impressive children's museums, and large and elaborate playgrounds in Millennium Park. It's easy to keep kids entertained in this very kid-focused city.

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 Chicago Better for Couples?

Amsterdam
Chicago

Amsterdam is a great destination for couples. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Chicago is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy exploring the city's vibrant theater scene and diverse neighborhoods. There are many varied restaurants and entertainment options that make for a great date night. There are also sporting events, parks, and gardens where couples can explore.

Is Amsterdam or Chicago Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam
Chicago

Amsterdam is renowned for backpackers. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Amsterdam is a very popular city to visit 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Chicago. The city doesn't have a huge backpacker vibe, but it does have a number of hostels that help keep costs in check.


Is Amsterdam or Chicago Better for Students?

Amsterdam
Chicago

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

Chicago is a great destination for students. The city has a large number of universities that bring in students from around the country and around the globe. It's a huge international city with economic ties and many opportunities connected to the universities.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

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

Amsterdam
Chicago

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

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.

Chicago has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

Is Amsterdam or Chicago a more walkable city?

Amsterdam
Chicago

Amsterdam is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

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.

Chicago is very walkable. The city has many restaurants, sights, and hotels that are easily accessible on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Chicago or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Chicago?

In either Amsterdam or Chicago, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Amsterdam than Chicago 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 Chicago.

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

Couples should spend more time in Chicago than Amsterdam. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Chicago that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Amsterdam than Chicago 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 Chicago? Ideal Length of Stay
    Amsterdam 2-7 
    Chicago 3-5

One day in Amsterdam or Chicago?

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 museums and theater around the city of Chicago. 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 Chicago?

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 theater and nightlife around the vibrant big city of Chicago. 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 Chicago?

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.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the cosmopolitan city of Chicago. 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 Chicago?

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.

Chicago 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 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.


Which place is cheaper, Chicago or Amsterdam?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Amsterdam is $190, while the average daily cost in Chicago is $288. 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 Chicago in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Amsterdam $111
    Chicago $198
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Amsterdam $222
    Chicago $396
Compare Hotels in Amsterdam and Chicago

Looking for a hotel in Amsterdam or Chicago? 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 Chicago


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 Chicago Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Amsterdam $22
    Chicago $37
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Amsterdam

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Amsterdam:


  • Ride on Tram
    $3.48
  • Renting a Bike
    $16
  • One Hour Canal Cruise
    $11
  • Single Day Transit Pass
    $2.83
  • Transit Pass to Amsterdam Airport
    $3.70

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Amsterdam

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Amsterdam:

  • 1-15 pers Taxi/Bus Transfer Amsterdam Airport to 's-Hertogenbosch: $291
  • 1-15 persons Taxi or Bus Transfer Amsterdam Airport to Den Helder: $258
  • 1-15 persons Taxi or Bus Transfer Amsterdam Airport to Haarlem: $106
  • 1-15 persons Taxi or Bus Transfer Amsterdam Airport to Hilversum: $157
  • 1-15 persons Taxi or Bus Transfer Amsterdam Airport to IJmuiden: $123
  • 1-15 persons Taxi or Bus Transfer Amsterdam Airport to Leiden: $129
  • 1-15 persons Taxi or Bus Transfer Amsterdam Airport to Noordwijk: $129
  • 1-15 persons Taxi or Bus Transfer Amsterdam Airport to Utrecht: $249
  • 1-15 persons Taxi or Bus Transfer Amsterdam city to Airport: $110
  • 1-15 persons Taxi or Bus Transfer Amsterdam in Amsterdam City: $105
  • 1-15pers Taxi/Bus Transfer Amsterdam Airport to Rotterdam Airport: $202
  • AMS Schiphol Airport VIP Meet and Assist Pickup (with Hotel Private Transfer): $193

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Chicago

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Chicago:


  • Parking
    $19
  • Taxi Ride
    $10
  • Taxi from Airport
    $45

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Chicago

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Chicago:

  • Chicago to Chicago O'Hare Airport (ORD): Departure Transfer: $57
  • Airport transfer between Chicago O'Hare and Milwaukee: $34
  • Arrival Private Transfer: O'Hare Airport ORD to Chicago in Business Car: $153
  • Arrival Private Transfer: O'Hare Airport ORD to Chicago in Luxury Car: $236
  • Arrival Private Transfer: O'Hare Airport ORD to Chicago in Luxury SUV: $204
  • Chicago Airport (MDW) to Chicago - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $117
  • Chicago Airport Transfer: Chicago to O'Hare Airport ORD in Luxury SUV: $204
  • Chicago Airport Transfer: Chicago to O'Hare Airport in Luxury SUV: $150
  • Chicago Airport Transfer: O'Hare Airport ORD to Chicago in Business Car: $154
  • Chicago Airport Transfer: O'Hare Airport ORD to Chicago in Luxury SUV: $204
  • Chicago Illinois Shared Transfer: $165
  • Chicago Midway Airport (MDW) to Chicago City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $106

Is it cheaper to fly into Amsterdam or Chicago?

Prices for flights to both Chicago 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 $47
    Chicago $49
Typical Food Prices in Amsterdam

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Amsterdam:


  • Afternoon Tea
    $6.53

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 : $8.28
  • Self-Guided Food Tour in De Pijp Neighbourhood: $14
  • Self-Guided Food Tour in De Jordaan Neighbourhood: $14
  • Evening Canal Cruise with Pizza and Drinks: $32
  • Amsterdam Evening Canal Cruise With Pizza and Drinks: $33
  • Food Tour Jordaan District: $36
  • Dinner Cruise with Fries Bitterballen and Drink from Amsterdam: $38
  • Pizza Cruise with Drinks: $41
  • Amsterdam Nightlife Ticket with A GOLD MENU Hard Rock Dinner: $52
  • Food Tour Amsterdam's Jordaan District Self-Guided: $52
  • 3-course Dinner in the Dark Amsterdam: $54
  • 3 Course Dinner in the Dark: $54

Typical Food Prices in Chicago

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Chicago:


  • Dinner for 1
    $24
  • Dinner for 3
    $118

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Chicago

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Chicago.

  • Traveling Spoon Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza Private Online Cooking Class : $40
  • Downtown Chicago Walking Pizza Tour: $55
  • Chicago : Hands-on Cooking Classes With Local Chef: $55
  • Chicago's Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $55
  • Downtown Pizza Guided Walking Tour with Tastings: $58
  • Fulton Market Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Chicago Bucktown-Wicker Park Pizza Crawl: $69
  • Friday Pizza Walk of Downtown Chicago: $69
  • Chicago Small Group Food Tour: $69
  • Lake Michigan Gourmet Brunch/Lunch/Dinner Cruise: $72
  • Chicago Pizza Tour: $75
  • Chicago Deep Dish Pizza Self-Guided Tour: $75

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Amsterdam $41
    Chicago $47
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
    $6.53
  • Entry for two to the Anne Frank House
    $19

Tours and Activities in Amsterdam

Here are a few actual costs in Amsterdam for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Amsterdam city centre historical walking tour: $1.09
  • Golden Age Canals Walking Tour: $1.09
  • Rude Bastards Tour of Amsterdam: $3.26
  • City Exploration Game and Walking Tour: $3.26
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.26
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Amsterdam: $3.30
  • Photo Tour in Amsterdam 2 Hours: $3.30
  • Free Walking Tour of Haunted Amsterdam: $3.31
  • Free walking tour of haunted Amsterdam: $4.34
  • Private Tour of Simonehoeve Cheese Farm and Clog Factory: $5.52
  • Private Walking Tour through the Streets of Amsterdam: $5.52
  • An Amsterdam Introduction: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of the City's Origins: $5.99

Typical Entertainment Prices in Chicago

Here are a few typical costs in Chicago for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Sears Tower (family of 4)
    $102
  • Aquarium for 4
    $118
  • Water Taxi (family of 4)
    $22
  • IMAX Movie for Two
    $35
  • Shakespeare Play (2)
    $116
  • Art Institute (2)
    $36
  • U-Boat Tour (2)
    $8.00

Tours and Activities in Chicago

Here are a few actual costs in Chicago for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • A Storied Neighborhood: A Self-Guided Audio Tour with Bill Ayers: $5.40
  • Discovering Chicago with Walking In App Audio Tour: $6.00
  • Haunted Sites Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $6.50
  • Chicago's Dark Side Smartphone (GPS/APP) Audio / Self Guided Walking Tour: $6.95
  • Vice, Crime and Gangsters in A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Chicago’s Ragtime & Jazz Eras: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Vice, Crime and Gangsters Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Must-Sees & Hidden Gems In-App Audio Tour (ENG): $9.00
  • Chicago Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Chicago Cubs Baseball Game Ticket at Wrigley Field: $9.77
  • App Chicago self-guided tours with multilingual audioguides: $9.77
  • Chicago Cubs Baseball Game Ticket at Wrigley Field: $9.96

For more ideas for your next trip, check out The Best Free Things to Do in Chicago, Chicago Bucket List: The Best Places to See, and The Best Museums in Chicago.


Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Amsterdam $26
    Chicago $25

Sample the Local Flavors in Amsterdam

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

  • Amsterdam Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $16
  • Amsterdam Private Self Guided Pub Crawl: $22
  • Original Pub Crawl Party with VIP Entrance: $26
  • Central Pub Crawl and Nightlife Experience: $27
  • Red Light District Pub Crawl: $27
  • Distillery Tour & Tasting at Spirited Union: $28
  • Leidseplein and Red Light Pub Crawl: 2 Night Pass: $31
  • Chateau Urban Wine Tasting and optional bites: $33
  • Original Amsterdam Pub Crawl: $33
  • Red Light District Tour | Pub Crawl Mystery: $38
  • Kings Night Ultimate Party Pub Crawl: $38
  • Red Light District and Local Pub Tour: $40

Sample the Local Flavors in Chicago

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Chicago:

  • Malt Row Walking Brewery Tour: $30
  • Walking tour to Chicago dive bars: $41
  • Chicago Local Brewery Expedition with Homemade Guacamole: $54
  • Chicago Walking Brewery Tour in Malt Row: $75
  • Chicago Craft Brewery Barrel Bus Tour: $100
  • Craft Brewery Tour by Barrel Bus: $100


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Amsterdam and Chicago, we can see that Chicago 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 Chicago 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 Chicago would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chicago 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 Chicago Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Chicago?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Amsterdam. When comparing the sizes of Amsterdam and Chicago, 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 Chicago?

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 Chicago in the Summer?

Both Chicago and Amsterdam are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Amsterdam for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Chicago because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Amsterdam is much colder than Chicago. Typically, the summer temperatures in Amsterdam in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Chicago averages at about 77°F (25°C).

It's quite sunny in Chicago. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Amsterdam. Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Chicago during summer. Amsterdam gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 326 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chicago. In July, Amsterdam usually receives less rain than Chicago. Amsterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Amsterdam 17°C (62°F) 
    Chicago 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Amsterdam or Chicago in the Autumn?

Both Chicago and Amsterdam during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Chicago this time of year.

In October, Amsterdam is generally cooler than Chicago. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 11°C (51°F), and Chicago fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

In the autumn, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Chicago. Amsterdam gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 195 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets more rain in October than Chicago. Amsterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Amsterdam 11°C (51°F) 
    Chicago 56°F (14°C)

Should I visit Amsterdam or Chicago in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Amsterdam and Chicago. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Amsterdam this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Chicago for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Chicago. It's quite cold in Amsterdam in the winter. Amsterdam is much warmer than Chicago in the winter. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Chicago fluctuates around 25°F (-4°C).

Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Chicago during winter. Amsterdam gets 46 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 134 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Amsterdam usually receives more rain than Chicago. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Amsterdam 2°C (36°F) 
    Chicago 25°F (-4°C)

Should I visit Amsterdam or Chicago in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Amsterdam as well as Chicago. Many travelers come to Amsterdam for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Chicago in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Amsterdam is cooler than Chicago. Typically, the spring temperatures in Amsterdam in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Chicago averages at about 52°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chicago. In the spring, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Chicago. Amsterdam gets 166 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 218 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Chicago. Amsterdam usually gets less rain in April than Chicago. Amsterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Chicago and Amsterdam

Amsterdam Chicago
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 25°F (-4°C) 1.9 inches (47 mm)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 29°F (-2°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 41°F (5°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in) 52°F (11°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm)
May 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 63°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 73°F (23°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 77°F (25°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 76°F (24°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 56°F (14°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 44°F (7°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm)
Dec 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 31°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)