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

Should you visit Amsterdam or Cork?

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

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

Cork

Cork is a cultural, seaside, and youthful city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Amsterdam and Cork: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Cork?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Amsterdam than Cork. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Amsterdam is very popular for its nightlife, music, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Cork attracts visitors for its food. Amsterdam is more touristy than Cork and is known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Rijksmuseum. Cork is famous for its friendly personality, its thriving art scene and its local craft beer.

How is Amsterdam different from Cork?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the high quality sights and museums in both Amsterdam and Cork.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Amsterdam can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Cork. The city is filled with historic sights and landmarks. Most notable is the Blarney Castle and Blarney Stone, but also make sure you check out St. Fin Barre's Cathedral, the Cork Public Museum, Cork City Gaol Heritage Centre, and St. Anne's Church.

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

Cork 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 Cork. You'll find charming seaside cafes and award winning restaurants. Also make sure you check out the English Market, which is among the best in Ireland.

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 Cork Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Cork is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

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.

Cork has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. It's a university city, so you'll find plenty of students, bars, clubs, and cheap beer. Many pubs also have live music with everything from rock to Irish folk music.

Is Amsterdam or Cork Better for Music?

Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for live music. However, Cork is not a live music destination.

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.

Cork is not a live music destination.

Is Amsterdam or Cork Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam is notable for its historic old town. However, Cork 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.

Cork does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Cork?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Cork and Amsterdam.

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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Cork. It offers a mix of high street shops and boutique vendors. Head to St. Patrick’s Street for some of the city's best shopping. Also check out Opera Lane and Oliver Plunkett Street.

Is Amsterdam or Cork Better for Families?

Cork 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 Cork. For a bit of outside time, head to Fota Wildlife Park, Regional Park Ballincollig, or Inchydoney Beach. Kids will also enjoy exploring Cork City Gaol which is a heritage museum, or the Toy Soldier Factory. And of course, there's the Blarney Castle and the Blarney Stone.

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 Cork Better for Couples?

Amsterdam and Cork are both high quality to visit as a couple.

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.

Cork is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Visiting Blarney Castle is a highlight, but you can also wander along the river or do the Ballycotton Cliff Walk. There are also several gardens to explore or small theaters where you can see a play.

Is Amsterdam or Cork Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Cork 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 backpackers visit Cork. There are plenty of hostels as well as a large student population and an active nightlife.

Is Amsterdam or Cork Better for Students?

Cork is well known for students. However, Amsterdam is not popular with students.

Cork is a great city to visit as a student. It's a university town with many students and plenty to do. The city plays host to many international students.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

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

Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for its public transit. However, Cork is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cork. In town you'll find bus service but if you want to explore anywhere else in the county you really need your own vehicle.

Is Amsterdam or Cork a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for its walkability. Also, Cork is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Amsterdam on foot. The historic parts of the city are very walkable and much of the city is best explored on foot.

Cork is a somewhat walkable place. The city center is compact and easy enough to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Cork or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Cork?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Amsterdam and Cork. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Amsterdam than in Cork. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Amsterdam, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cork.

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

Couples should spend more time in Amsterdam than Cork. 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 Cork 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 Cork?

Amsterdam is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

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

A weekend in Amsterdam or Cork?

Amsterdam is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the seaside destination of Cork. 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 Cork?

Amsterdam is a canal-lined big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the energetic city of Cork. 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 Cork?

Amsterdam is a laid-back city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Cork 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 Ireland, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Ireland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Cork?

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

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 Cork in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Amsterdam and Cork. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Amsterdam this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cork for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Amsterdam is generally around the same temperature as Cork. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 17°C (62°F), and Cork fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In Amsterdam, it's very sunny this time of the year. Amsterdam usually receives more sunshine than Cork during summer. Amsterdam gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Cork receives 178 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Amsterdam usually receives more rain than Cork. Amsterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Cork receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Cork in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Amsterdam as well as Cork. Many travelers come to Amsterdam for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Cork in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Amsterdam is around the same temperature as Cork in the autumn. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Cork fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Amsterdam often gets more sunshine than Cork. Amsterdam gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cork receives 90 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets less rain in October than Cork. Amsterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Cork receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Cork in the Winter?

Both Cork and Amsterdam are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Amsterdam in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Cork for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Amsterdam can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Amsterdam is much colder than Cork. Typically, the winter temperatures in Amsterdam in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Cork averages at about 6°C (43°F).

Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Cork during winter. Amsterdam gets 46 hours of sunny skies, while Cork receives 60 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cork. In January, Amsterdam usually receives less rain than Cork. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Cork receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Cork in the Spring?

Both Cork and Amsterdam during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Amsterdam for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Cork because of the activities around the city.

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

In the spring, Amsterdam often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cork. Amsterdam gets 166 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cork receives 157 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Cork. Amsterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Cork receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cork and Amsterdam