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

Should you visit Amsterdam or Denver?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Amsterdam or Denver, 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 canal-lined, party-oriented, and laid-back city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and shopping.

Denver

Denver is a suburban, accessible, and sprawling city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and skiing.

Amsterdam and Denver: 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
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Rijksmuseum
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Denver?

You'll generally find more things to do in Amsterdam than Denver. Amsterdam is bigger than Denver, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Amsterdam is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Denver is more popular for its skiing and hiking. Amsterdam is more touristy than Denver and is known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. Also, Amsterdam is famous for The Rijksmuseum. Denver is well known for serving as a gateway to the Rocky Mountains and the many national parks that are in the area.

How is Amsterdam different from Denver?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Denver and Amsterdam. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Amsterdam or Denver Better for Skiing?

Amsterdam
Denver

Denver is a nice place to visit for winter skiing. However, Amsterdam is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Denver is a great destination to visit. Although there's no skiing in the immediate area, there is a huge list of world class ski resorts within an hour or two of town. Two of the closest are Echo Mountain Resort and Loveland Ski Area.

Amsterdam is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Amsterdam or Denver?

Amsterdam
Denver

Amsterdam is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Denver is not a good city for its museums and history.

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.

While most people don't head to Denver specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Many people use Denver as a starting or ending point for their mountain and national park trip, but those who linger can visit some of the city's museums and sights. Popular museums include the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, the History Colorado Center, and the Forney Museum of Transportation.

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

Amsterdam
Denver

Dining out at restaurants in both Amsterdam and Denver 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!

Denver may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. It's a pretty large city, so you'll find some nice local restaurants, but the foodie scene is still emerging in many neighborhoods. A number of restaurants offer outdoor seating, which is nice. You'll also find a growing selection of international restaurants. For something uniquely local, you should try the Bison steak and fried pickles.

Is Amsterdam or Denver Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam
Denver

Amsterdam is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Amsterdam is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Denver. The city has come a long way with its nightlife. There's a great craft beer scene and the downtown area has really come to life. Popular bars and clubs in town include the Grizzly Rose and 54Thirty Rooftop. Many places are concentrated in the Soco Nightlife District.


Is Amsterdam or Denver Better for Music?

Amsterdam
Denver

Amsterdam is renowned for its live music scene. However, Denver 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.

Denver is not a live music destination.

Is Amsterdam or Denver Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam
Denver

Amsterdam is a well-known place for its old town. However, Denver does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Amsterdam to see the historical old town. 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.

Denver does not have a historic old town.

Is Amsterdam or Denver Better for Hiking?

Amsterdam
Denver

Denver is a nice place to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Amsterdam is not a hiking destination.

Denver has hiking trails worth exploring. The city is very close to many beautiful parks and hiking areas in the Rocky Mountains. It's not hard to make a day trip from town and enjoy some great hiking. Nice options include the Trading Post Trail in Red Rocks Mountain Park, Bergen Peak near Evergreen, and Chimney Gulch Trail near the town of Golden.

Amsterdam is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Denver?

Amsterdam
Denver

Amsterdam is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Denver has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city has many outlet malls that budget shoppers appreciate. There are also weekend farmer's markets, boutique shopping areas, and all of the major chains that you'll find in most larger cities.

Is Amsterdam or Denver Better for Families?

Amsterdam
Denver

Denver 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 Denver. It is a family-friendly city with museums, playgrounds, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are also a few ropes courses near town that kids and adults alike will enjoy. Popular activities include the Denver Zoo, the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, and Children's Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus.

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 Denver Better for Couples?

Amsterdam
Denver

Amsterdam is a well-known place for its romantic activities. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Amsterdam is a very popular place to visit for couples. For many, a visit to this city is all about the party, but for couples who enjoy history, architecture, or boat rides along the scenic canals, the city also makes a great getaway. It's also fun to stay in a houseboat and have a unique experience.

Denver is a good city for couples to visit. There are many beautiful and romantic outdoor activities in the area such as parks and botanical gardens. There are also spas, including the impressive Spa at the Brown Palace, as well as upscale restaurants and fun bars and clubs to explore.


Is Amsterdam or Denver Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam
Denver

Amsterdam is renowned for backpackers. However, Denver is not a good city 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.

Denver is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Some backpackers fly into Denver to begin their national park tour. There is a hostel or two around town, and if you leave town quickly you'll find campgrounds not far away.

Is Amsterdam or Denver Better for Students?

Amsterdam
Denver

Denver is a nice place to visit for students. However, Amsterdam is not popular with students.

Denver is popular with students. There are a few students in the city, but there isn't a college town vibe that you'd get at other nearby university areas.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

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

Amsterdam
Denver

Amsterdam is renowned for its public transit. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Amsterdam has a great 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.

Denver has some public transit options. If you're not planning to leave town, the light rail and bus systems offer good access to much of Denver.


Is Amsterdam or Denver a more walkable city?

Amsterdam
Denver

Amsterdam is renowned for its high level of walkability. However, Denver is not a good city for its ease of walking around.

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.

Denver is not a very walkable city. While the downtown area is generally walkable, this is still a sprawling city where you'll really want to have a car to access areas outside of town.

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

Should I spend more time in Denver or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Denver?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Amsterdam than Denver. 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 Denver 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 Denver? Ideal Length of Stay
    Amsterdam 2-7 
    Denver 2-3

One day in Amsterdam or Denver?

Amsterdam is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the city of Denver. 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 Denver?

Amsterdam is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find shopping and skiing around the suburban destination of Denver. 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 Denver?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Amsterdam. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the suburban city of Denver. 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 Denver?

Amsterdam is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Denver 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 Luxury Tours to United States of America, and The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Denver or Amsterdam?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Amsterdam is $189, while the average daily cost in Denver is $218. 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 Denver in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Amsterdam $110
    Denver $87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Amsterdam $220
    Denver $174
Compare Hotels in Amsterdam and Denver

Looking for a hotel in Amsterdam or Denver? 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 Denver


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 Denver Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Amsterdam $21
    Denver $101
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Amsterdam

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


  • Ride on Tram
    $3.47
  • Renting a Bike
    $16
  • One Hour Canal Cruise
    $11
  • Single Day Transit Pass
    $2.82
  • Transit Pass to Amsterdam Airport
    $3.68

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Amsterdam

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Amsterdam:

  • Train transfer From/To Zaandijk Zaanse Schans: $5.01
  • Train Transfer Schiphol Airport from/to Amsterdam: $6.29
  • Airport Express Bus Transfer to/from City Center: $6.93
  • 1-Way Train Transfer to/from Haarlem: $7.35
  • Train Transfer From/To Zandvoort in Amsterdam: $7.99
  • Train Transfer Amsterdam from/to Utrecht: $12
  • Train Transfer Amsterdam from/to Leiden: $13
  • Travel Ticket for 1-3 Days With Airport Transfer: $19
  • Train Transfer Amsterdam from/to Rotterdam: $21
  • Train Transfer Schiphol Airport from/to Eindhoven: $26
  • Eindhoven: Train Transfer Eindhoven from/to Amsterdam: $26
  • From Bus Transfer to Flower Fields Keukenhof: $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Denver

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Denver:

  • Arrival Private Transfer Denver Airport DEN to Denver City by SUV: $290
  • Denver Airport (BJC) to Beaver Creek Ski Resort -Arrival Transfer: $217
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Glenwood Springs - Arrival Transfer: $119
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Glenwood Springs - Round-Trip Transfer: $119
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Snowmass/Aspen - Arrival Private Transfer: $293
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Steamboat - Arrival Private Transfer: $282
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Vail/Beaver Creek/Avon - Arrival Transfer: $217
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Winter Park - Arrival Private Transfer: $130
  • Denver Airport (DEN): Private Transfer to Denver hotels: $252
  • Denver Airport BJC to Winter Park Ski Resort Arrival Transfer: $92
  • Denver Airport Transfer To/From Aspen for 6-14 Sprinter Van: $1,950
  • Denver Airport to Breckenridge/Keystone/Copper - Arrival Transfer: $195

Is it cheaper to fly into Amsterdam or Denver?

Prices for flights to both Denver 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
    Denver $42
Typical Food Prices in Amsterdam

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


  • Afternoon Tea
    $6.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Amsterdam

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

  • 2 Hours Food Tour in Amsterdam (Tip Based): $5.44
  • Amsterdam Self-Guided Food Tour in De Pijp Neighbourhood : $8.16
  • Self-Guided Food Tour in De Jordaan Neighbourhood: $13
  • Self-Guided Food Tour in De Pijp Neighbourhood: $13
  • Self-Guided Food Tour of Amsterdam's De Jordaan District: $14
  • Hard Rock Cafe Amsterdam with Set Lunch or Dinner: $31
  • Exclusive Burger Dinner Cruise through Amsterdam: $31
  • Pizza Cruise with Drinks: $40
  • Amsterdam Nightlife Ticket with A GOLD MENU Hard Rock Dinner: $43
  • Amsterdam Evening Canal Cruise With Pizza and Drinks: $43
  • Food Tour Jordaan District: $51
  • Food Tour Amsterdam's Jordaan District Self-Guided: $52

Typical Food Prices in Denver

Some typical examples of dining costs in Denver are as follows:


  • Sushi Dinner (for 2)
    $61

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Denver

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

  • RiNo Arts District Food Tour: $79
  • Downtown Denver Food Tour: $79
  • Arts District Walking Food Tour: $79
  • Mystery Puzzle Food Tour in Golden, CO: $80
  • The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show - Denver, CO: $86

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Amsterdam $40
    Denver $52
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
    $6.50
  • Entry for two to the Anne Frank House
    $18

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: $1.07
  • Red Light District Haunted History Night Tour: $1.69
  • Two-hour walking tour of Amsterdam: $2.60
  • Rude Bastards Tour of Amsterdam: $3.20
  • Best of Amsterdam City Tour: $3.20
  • City Exploration Game and Walking Tour: $3.20
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.20
  • The Anne Frank Tour (Tip Based) Amsterdam : $3.25
  • Dark History of the City Walking Tour: $3.41
  • Free walking tour of haunted Amsterdam: $4.26
  • Amsterdam West Specialty Coffee Spots: A Self-Guided Cycling Tour: $5.41
  • Private Walking Tour through the Streets of Amsterdam: $5.44

Tours and Activities in Denver

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Denver are as follows:

  • Discover A Walking Tour of Denver's Top Sights: $5.00
  • Denver’s Downtown: Past and Present In-App Audio Tour (ENG): $9.00
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Denver by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure on Your Phone: $10
  • Denver Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $13
  • Molly Brown House Museum Self-Guided Tour & Entry: $14
  • Denver Botanic Gardens General Admission Ticket: $16
  • General Admission to Denver Botanic Gardens Ticket: $16
  • Colorado Rockies Baseball Game Ticket at Coors Field: $16
  • History and Architecture Walking Tours: $20
  • Haunted Tour with Ghost Hunting Gear: $20
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Aurora by Zombie Scavengers: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Amsterdam $26
    Denver $5.31

Sample the Local Flavors in Amsterdam

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

  • Bar Crawl with Shots and Beer Maid Guide: $25
  • Central Pub Crawl and Nightlife Experience: $27
  • Red Light District Pub Crawl: $27
  • Central Pub Crawl and Nightlife Experience: $27
  • Original Pub Crawl Party with VIP Entrance: $29
  • Chateau Urban Wine Tasting and optional bites: $32
  • Self-guided Red Light District Pub Crawl Mystery: $37
  • Leidseplein and Red Light Pub Crawl: 2 Night Pass: $37
  • Kings Night Ultimate Party Pub Crawl: $37
  • Red Light District and Local Pub Tour: $39
  • Dutch Wine Tasting || Amsterdam City Centre: $48
  • Red-Light District Pub Crawl and Booze Boat Tour: $52

Sample the Local Flavors in Denver

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

  • Terrors Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Vintner's Personalized Wine Tasting Experience: $60
  • Wine Tasting with Cheese, Charcuterie, and Dessert : $74
  • Denver Pedicab Brewery Tour: $130


When comparing the travel costs between Amsterdam and Denver, we can see that Denver is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Amsterdam is in Europe and Denver is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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


Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Denver?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 34% larger than the population of Denver. When comparing the sizes of Amsterdam and Denver, 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.