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

Should you visit Amsterdam or Dusseldorf?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Amsterdam or Dusseldorf, 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 laid-back, scenic, and historic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is a cultural, vibrant, and historic 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 Dusseldorf: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Dusseldorf?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Amsterdam than Dusseldorf. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Amsterdam is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Dusseldorf attracts visitors for its food. Amsterdam is more touristy than Dusseldorf and is known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Rijksmuseum. Dusseldorf is famous for its music and art scene, as well as being the fashion capital of Germany.

How is Amsterdam different from Dusseldorf?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Amsterdam is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

Dusseldorf offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are museums, palaces, and many cultural sights. Make sure you check out Schloss Benrath, the Rheinturm, the North Rhine-Westphalia Art Collection, and Museum Kunstpalast.

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

Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf. You'll find a mix of regional specialties and international restaurant options. Traditional dishes include Rheinischer Sauerbraten (Rhine style marinated roast), Haxe (shin), Flönz (blood sausage), and Ähzezupp (pea soup).

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 Dusseldorf Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is very popular for nightlife. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Amsterdam is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Dusseldorf has a few options to choose from. You'll find the highest concentration of bars and pubs in the old town area. Try to find a brewerie where you can try Dusseldorf's famous altbier.

Is Amsterdam or Dusseldorf Better for Music?

Amsterdam is very popular for live music. However, Dusseldorf 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.

Dusseldorf is not a live music destination.

Is Amsterdam or Dusseldorf Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam and Dusseldorf both have great historical old towns that attract visitors.

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.

Dusseldorf is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is popular for its bars and pubs, which serve up the local altbier. The atmosphere is charming and there are restaurants that spill out onto the streets.

Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Dusseldorf?

Amsterdam is a great destination for shopping. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Amsterdam is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Dusseldorf. Head to the popular shopping street of Königsallee. You'll find luxury brands and boutique shops. The city also has department stores and large shopping malls.

Is Amsterdam or Dusseldorf Better for Families?

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

Dusseldorf is a very kid-friendly city. It has many great playgrounds and parks where kids can run around. Animal lovers will appreciate Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum and Grafenberger Wald which has about 100 animals. If the weather's nice you can head to Unterbacher See, which is a lakefront beach. Other kid-friendly activities in town include the Neanderthal Museum and Museum Kunstpalast.

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 Dusseldorf Better for Couples?

Amsterdam and Dusseldorf are both great 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.

Dusseldorf is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There is live theater, spa hotels, historic palaces, and many parks and gardens where couples can enjoy their time together. Popular activities for couples in town include visiting Rheinturm, taking a Rhine River cruise, and exploring Schloss Dyck.

Is Amsterdam or Dusseldorf Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is very popular for backpackers. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 budget travelers visit Dusseldorf. There are plenty of hostels and activities around town. There are also affordable restaurants and a nice nightlife scene.

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

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

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.

Dusseldorf has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. All of the public transportation in town is operated by Rheinbahn. There's a city railway, (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses. Dusseldorf is also easily connected to the many other nearby towns and cities including Cologne.

Is Amsterdam or Dusseldorf a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is very popular for its walkability. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of 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.

Dusseldorf is a very walkable city. It's easy to explore most of the city on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Dusseldorf or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Dusseldorf?

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

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

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

When visiting Amsterdam, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Dusseldorf. 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.

A weekend in Amsterdam or Dusseldorf?

When visiting Amsterdam, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fun-filled destination of Dusseldorf. 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.

Five days in Amsterdam or Dusseldorf?

Amsterdam, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the fun-filled city of Dusseldorf. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Amsterdam or Dusseldorf?

Amsterdam is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Dusseldorf is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Munich, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin.

When comparing the travel costs between Amsterdam and Dusseldorf, we can see that Dusseldorf 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. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Dusseldorf?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 24% larger than the population of Dusseldorf. When comparing the sizes of Amsterdam and Dusseldorf, 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 Dusseldorf?

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 Dusseldorf in the Summer?

Both Dusseldorf and Amsterdam are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Amsterdam for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Dusseldorf in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Amsterdam is generally cooler than Dusseldorf. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 17°C (62°F), and Dusseldorf fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Amsterdam. Amsterdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Dusseldorf during summer. Amsterdam gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Dusseldorf receives 195 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Amsterdam usually receives around the same amount of rain as Dusseldorf. Amsterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Dusseldorf in the Autumn?

Both Dusseldorf and Amsterdam during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Amsterdam in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Dusseldorf for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

Amsterdam is around the same temperature as Dusseldorf in the autumn. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Dusseldorf fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Dusseldorf. Amsterdam gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dusseldorf receives 112 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Amsterdam or Dusseldorf in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Amsterdam and Dusseldorf. Most visitors come to Amsterdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Dusseldorf because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Dusseldorf can be very cold. Amsterdam can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Amsterdam is cooler than Dusseldorf. Typically, the winter temperatures in Amsterdam in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Dusseldorf averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Amsterdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Dusseldorf during winter. Amsterdam gets 46 hours of sunny skies, while Dusseldorf receives 45 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Amsterdam usually receives around the same amount of rain as Dusseldorf. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Dusseldorf in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Amsterdam as well as Dusseldorf. The spring months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, the activities around the city are the main draw to Dusseldorf this time of year.

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

In the spring, Amsterdam often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dusseldorf. Amsterdam gets 166 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dusseldorf receives 155 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Dusseldorf. Amsterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Dusseldorf and Amsterdam