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

Should you visit Amsterdam or Florence?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Amsterdam or Florence, 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. Many visitors also come to Amsterdam because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and live music. See Amsterdam travel costs.

Florence

Florence is a artistic, iconic, and alluring city. The famous beauty of Florence is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Florence travel costs.

Amsterdam and Florence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Florence?

You'll generally find more things to do in Amsterdam than Florence. Amsterdam is bigger than Florence, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Amsterdam is better known for its nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Florence is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, and historical sights. Amsterdam is well known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. Also, Amsterdam is famous for The Rijksmuseum. Florence is well known for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens.

How is Amsterdam different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Florence 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 Florence are among the most recognizable in the world. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

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

Florence 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, Florence is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean and cabbage soup. You'll also find all of your favorite Italian staples and many great family-owned trattorie.

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 Florence Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Florence. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Is Amsterdam or Florence Better for Music?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Florence is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Amsterdam. The city attracts its share of world renowned DJs and musicians. Popular music venues include Paradiso, De Melkweg, and Chicago Social Club.

Florence is not a live music destination.

Is Amsterdam or Florence Better for its Old Town?

Florence 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, Florence offers plenty to see. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

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 the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Florence?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Florence 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 Florence. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

Is Amsterdam or Florence More Beautiful?

Amsterdam and Florence are somewhat similar when it comes to the amazing scenery.

The famous beauty of Amsterdam is one of the main draws. With its beautiful canals, historic churches, and relaxing parks, this is a beautiful city.

Many visitors also come to Florence because of it's amazing beauty. The city's beautiful architecture and impressive gardens make it among the most beautiful cities in the world.

Is Amsterdam or Florence Better for Families?

Florence 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 Florence. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

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 Florence Better for Couples?

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

Florence has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

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 Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam and Florence are amazing 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 Florence, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

Is Amsterdam or Florence Better for Students?

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

Florence is a great destination for students. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

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

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

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.

Florence has a few public transit options. The city has a comprehensive bus system.

Is Amsterdam or Florence a more walkable city?

Amsterdam and Florence both are amazing 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.

Florence is a very easy city to get around on foot. Most people explore the city on foot and the striking beauty and and pedestrian-friendly areas make it a great place to wander. During peak seasons, the streets can get crowded.

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

Should I spend more time in Florence or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Florence?

Both Amsterdam and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Florence has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Florence than Amsterdam. However, 2-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Florence 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 Florence.

One day in Amsterdam or Florence?

Amsterdam is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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

Amsterdam is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Amsterdam, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the iconic destination of Florence. 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 Florence?

Amsterdam is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Amsterdam, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find nightlife and food around the alluring city of Florence. 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.

A week in Amsterdam or Florence?

Amsterdam is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Amsterdam has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Florence 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 Florence, one week is sufficent for most. 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 Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Amsterdam and Florence, we can see that Amsterdam 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 Florence Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Florence?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 100% larger than the population of Florence. When comparing the sizes of Amsterdam and Florence, 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 Florence?

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 Florence in the Summer?

Both Florence and Amsterdam during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Florence this time of year.

Amsterdam is cooler than Florence in the summer. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Florence fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

In Florence, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Amsterdam. In the summer, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Florence. Amsterdam gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets more rain in July than Florence. Amsterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Florence in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Amsterdam and Florence. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Amsterdam this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Florence for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Amsterdam is much colder than Florence. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Amsterdam in October average around 11°C (51°F), and Florence averages at about 16°C (61°F).

Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Florence during autumn. Amsterdam gets 99 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Amsterdam usually receives less rain than Florence. Amsterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Florence in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Amsterdam as well as Florence. Many travelers come to Amsterdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Florence in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Amsterdam. In January, Amsterdam is generally much colder than Florence. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 2°C (36°F), and Florence fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Florence. Amsterdam gets 46 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Florence. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Florence in the Spring?

Both Florence and Amsterdam are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Amsterdam in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Florence for the natural beauty during these months.

Amsterdam is much colder than Florence in the spring. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Florence fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Florence during spring. Amsterdam gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Amsterdam usually receives less rain than Florence. Amsterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Florence and Amsterdam