A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Amsterdam vs. Dubrovnik for Food, Nightlife, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Amsterdam or Dubrovnik?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Amsterdam or Dubrovnik, 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. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a cultural, coastal, and historic coastal town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Amsterdam and Dubrovnik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Dubrovnik?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Amsterdam. Although Amsterdam and Dubrovnik are both popular with visitors, Amsterdam has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Amsterdam is more popular for its nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Dubrovnik is known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and quaint atmosphere. Amsterdam is popular for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also home to The Rijksmuseum. Dubrovnik is popular for its well-preserved medieval old town that is surrounded by stone walls and has been the production sight for many major movies and television shows.

How is Amsterdam different from Dubrovnik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Amsterdam and Dubrovnik.

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 Dubrovnik. The old town is a living museum that is filled with historic landmarks like the old town walls, the Dubrovnik Cathedral and Treasury, and Loggia Square.

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

Dubrovnik 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, Dubrovnik is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Restaurants are usually locally-sourced with fresh produce and seafood. Traditional local dishes include black risotto (made with squid ink), pašticada (a beef dish), and various pasta dishes.

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 Dubrovnik Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for nightlife.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Dubrovnik. There are many bars around town that take advantage of the unique architecture of the city. There are far less clubs, but for a drink in a laid back setting, you'll find plenty of options.

Is Amsterdam or Dubrovnik Better for Music?

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

Amsterdam has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city attracts its share of world renowned DJs and musicians. Popular music venues include Paradiso, De Melkweg, and Chicago Social Club.

Dubrovnik is not a live music destination.

Is Amsterdam or Dubrovnik Better for Resorts?

Dubrovnik is well known for its resorts. However, Amsterdam is not a resort destination.

Dubrovnik is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The old town is the most famous and charming part of the city, but you'll find most of the resorts spanning the coastline outside of town. Inside the old town there are a few boutique hotels and a number of rooms available for rent, but make sure you book early during peak seasons. For a resort, look outside of the old town with popular options including Hotel Dubrovnik Palace, the Hilton Imperial, and Rixos Premium.

Amsterdam is not a resort destination.

Is Amsterdam or Dubrovnik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubrovnik is a coastal town with a few options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Amsterdam is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Dubrovnik has a few snorkeling spots. On clear days, snorkeling can be a fun activity, but the weather and visibility can vary so conditions are unpredictable. Buža is a popular snorkeling spot in town, but you can also organize tours to other areas.

Amsterdam is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Amsterdam or Dubrovnik Better for Beaches?

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

Dubrovnik has a beach worth visiting. The old town is the main appeal of the area, but there are several beaches that are nice for taking a swim or sunbathing. They are often pebbly, but the water is blue and the views are beautiful.

Amsterdam is not a beach destination.

Is Amsterdam or Dubrovnik Better for its Old Town?

Dubrovnik is an unbeatable place for its old town. Also, Amsterdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

With a famous historical old-town, Dubrovnik offers plenty to see. This walled old town is among the most famous in Europe. It's sits beautifully along the coast and it is pedestrian only. You can spend plenty of time exploring the historic lanes, popping in shops and restaurants, and soaking up the charming atmosphere.

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.

Is Amsterdam or Dubrovnik Better for Hiking?

Dubrovnik is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Amsterdam is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Dubrovnik. There are a number of hikes outside of town that take you along the dramatic coastal. The paths offer spectacular views back towards town or along the water.

Amsterdam is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Dubrovnik?

Amsterdam is a great city for its shopping areas. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for shopping.

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.

Dubrovnik is a great destination for shopping. The old town offers some nice boutique shops where you can buy designer clothes, jewelry, or trinkets.

Is Amsterdam or Dubrovnik Better for Families?

Dubrovnik is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Dubrovnik is a very kid-friendly coastal town. The city has nice beaches, beautiful hikes, and historic city walls that are fun to explore with kids. The food is also kid-friendly and the locals love meeting children.

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 Dubrovnik Better for Couples?

Dubrovnik is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Amsterdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Dubrovnik has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. With its beautiful old town, nice beaches, and laid back atmosphere, this makes the perfect couple's getaway destination. Pop in a local restaurant and try the seafood before exploring the charming squares and historic buildings.

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.

Is Amsterdam or Dubrovnik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam and Dubrovnik are fantastic places to visit 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.

A large number of backpackers visit Dubrovnik, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. It's not hard to find a room in a local's home near old town at an affordable price. The food is delicious and affordable as well, and you'll find plenty of other backpackers in town to hang out with.

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

Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal 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.

Dubrovnik has a few public transit options. There are 12 bus lines that connect all parts of the city with the city center.

Is Amsterdam or Dubrovnik a more walkable city?

Amsterdam and Dubrovnik both are fantastic when exploring on foot.

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.

Dubrovnik is a very easy city to get around on foot. The old town is completely pedestrian-only and you can also explore the city's historic walls on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Dubrovnik or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Dubrovnik?

In either Amsterdam or Dubrovnik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Amsterdam than Dubrovnik because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Amsterdam, and 1-5 days is enough time in Dubrovnik.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dubrovnik than Amsterdam 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 Dubrovnik.

One day in Amsterdam or Dubrovnik?

People visit Amsterdam because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the quaint coastal town of Dubrovnik. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dubrovnik has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Amsterdam or Dubrovnik?

People visit Amsterdam because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the charming destination of Dubrovnik. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal town has to offer. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Amsterdam or Dubrovnik?

People visit Amsterdam because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

You'll find nightlife and food around the charming coastal town of Dubrovnik. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal town has to offer.

A week in Amsterdam or Dubrovnik?

Amsterdam is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Amsterdam, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Dubrovnik is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Split, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Croatia.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Dubrovnik?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Dubrovnik. When comparing the sizes of Amsterdam and Dubrovnik, 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 Dubrovnik?

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 Dubrovnik in the Summer?

Both Dubrovnik 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. Furthermore, most visitors come to Dubrovnik for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

Amsterdam usually gets more rain in July than Dubrovnik. Amsterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Dubrovnik in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Amsterdam and Dubrovnik. 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. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Dubrovnik because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Amsterdam is generally much colder than Dubrovnik. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 11°C (51°F), and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Dubrovnik receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Amsterdam usually receives less rain than Dubrovnik. Amsterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Dubrovnik in the Winter?

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

The weather in Amsterdam can be very cold. Amsterdam is much colder than Dubrovnik in the winter. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

It's quite rainy in Dubrovnik. Amsterdam usually gets less rain in January than Dubrovnik. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 139 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Dubrovnik in the Spring?

Both Dubrovnik 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 Dubrovnik for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Amsterdam is much colder than Dubrovnik. Typically, the spring temperatures in Amsterdam in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Dubrovnik averages at about 14°C (57°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Dubrovnik. In April, Amsterdam usually receives less rain than Dubrovnik. Amsterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Dubrovnik and Amsterdam