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

Should you visit Amsterdam or Genoa?

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

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

Genoa

Genoa is a colorful, energetic, and historic port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Amsterdam and Genoa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Genoa?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Amsterdam than Genoa, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Amsterdam is more popular for its nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Genoa is known for its food and beaches. Amsterdam is more touristy than Genoa and is popular for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also home to The Rijksmuseum. Genoa is popular for its maritime history, its vibrant cultural scene, and being the birthplace of Christopher Columbus.

How is Amsterdam different from Genoa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the superb sights and museums in both Amsterdam and Genoa.

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 Genoa. The city has a long history and it is filled with monuments, palaces, and museums. Popular places to visit include the Via Garibaldi Palaces, the aquarium (one of the largest in Europe), the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, and Santi Ambrogio.

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

Genoa 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 Genoa. The city's maritime roots have influenced its cuisine and you'll find seafood in many local dishes. Other classic Genoese flavors include pesto, anchovies, fried squid, and focaccia and cheese.

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 Genoa Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for nightlife.

Amsterdam is a must-see 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 Genoa. The city lights up at night and it's fun to experience the activity and energy. There's a nice evening atmosphere with many people out and about. You can grab drinks in Piazza Lavagna or see live music in Porto Antico. There are also many bars and clubs around town.

Is Amsterdam or Genoa Better for Music?

Amsterdam is terrific for its music scene. However, Genoa 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.

Genoa is not a live music destination.

Is Amsterdam or Genoa Better for Beaches?

Genoa is a port city with a few options for the beache. However, Amsterdam is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Genoa. While many people head to other nearby towns to enjoy the beach, you will also find a beach just ten minutes from the old town by bus. Boccadasse is one of the closest beaches to town. It's also possible to do a day trip to other more famous beaches in the area, but you need to be prepared to travel a bit farther.

Amsterdam is not a beach destination.

Is Amsterdam or Genoa Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam is great for its historic old town charm. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its 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.

Many visitors go to Genoa to see the historical old town. The old town is large and complex, with many different time periods represented in the architecture and development style.

Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Genoa?

Amsterdam is great for its shopping areas. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city 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.

Genoa is a great destination for shopping. You can pick up a number of different souvenirs around town including baskets, t-shirts, and local pesto. Popular shopping areas include Galleria Mazzini, Via Roma, and Via XX Settembr.

Is Amsterdam or Genoa Better for Families?

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

Genoa is a very kid-friendly port city. The city is home to the second biggest aquarium in Europe as well as the Galata Maritime Museum and the Nazario Sauro Submarine. In the port there's also Vascello Nettuno, which was a pirate ship that was used in the filming of the movie 'Pirates' by Roman Polanski. Other fun kid-friendly attractions include La Biosfera, The Children's Museum, and the Bigo Lift.

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 Genoa Better for Couples?

Amsterdam and Genoa are both superb 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.

Genoa is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. It's a beautiful port city with charming neighborhoods and some great restaurants. Couples will enjoy exploring this beautiful city and visiting its palaces and cathedrals.

Is Amsterdam or Genoa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Amsterdam, as it is a very popular city for 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Genoa. There are a number of affordable hostels in the area, and while this isn't the top backpacker destination in Italy, it is a nice place to spend some time.

Is Amsterdam or Genoa Better for Students?

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

Genoa is a great port city to visit as a student. It's a popular study abroad destination so you'll find a number of international students in the area. The city is also well connected for exploring the region.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

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

Amsterdam is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Amsterdam can take you anywhere. 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.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Genoa. There's a wide range of different public transit options that are all operated by AMT. The system includes buses, an underground (one line), funiculars (two), lifts (ten), a boat, cogwheel and narrow gauge railways.

Is Amsterdam or Genoa a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its walkability.

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

Genoa is very walkable. The old town, where most tourists spend the majority of their time, is easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Genoa or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Genoa?

It's fun to spend time in either Amsterdam or Genoa. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Amsterdam due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Amsterdam, and 2-4 days is enough time in Genoa.

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

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

Each neighborhood in Amsterdam has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Amsterdam. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Genoa. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Amsterdam or Genoa?

Amsterdam is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Amsterdam has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the colorful port city of Genoa. 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 Genoa?

Each neighborhood in Amsterdam has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Genoa 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Genoa?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 23% larger than the population of Genoa. When comparing the sizes of Amsterdam and Genoa, 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 Genoa?

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 Genoa in the Summer?

Both Genoa 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. Also, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Genoa this time of year.

In the summer, Amsterdam is cooler than Genoa. Typically, the summer temperatures in Amsterdam in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Genoa averages at about 25°C (76°F).

In Genoa, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Amsterdam. In the summer, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Genoa. Amsterdam gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Genoa receives 295 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets more rain in July than Genoa. Amsterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Genoa in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Amsterdam and Genoa. 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. Also, many travelers come to Genoa for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Amsterdam is generally much colder than Genoa. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 11°C (51°F), and Genoa fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Genoa during autumn. Amsterdam gets 99 hours of sunny skies, while Genoa receives 183 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Amsterdam usually receives less rain than Genoa. Amsterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Genoa in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Amsterdam. Amsterdam is much colder than Genoa in the winter. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Genoa fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the winter, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Genoa. Amsterdam gets 46 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Genoa receives 127 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Genoa. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Genoa in the Spring?

Both Genoa 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 Genoa for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Amsterdam is much colder than Genoa. Typically, the spring temperatures in Amsterdam in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Genoa averages at about 15°C (58°F).

Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Genoa during spring. Amsterdam gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Genoa receives 198 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Amsterdam usually receives less rain than Genoa. Amsterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Genoa and Amsterdam