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

Should you visit Amsterdam or Girona?

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

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

Girona

Girona is a colorful, medieval, and ancient city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Amsterdam and Girona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Girona?

You'll generally find more things to do in Amsterdam than Girona. Amsterdam is bigger than Girona, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Amsterdam is better known for its nightlife, music, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Girona is more popular for its food, historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Amsterdam is more touristy than Girona and is known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. Also, Amsterdam is famous for The Rijksmuseum. Girona is well known for its ancient ruins, colorful old town, grand cathedral, and impressive local cuisine.

How is Amsterdam different from Girona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the great sights and museums in both Amsterdam and Girona.

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 Girona. Wander the ancient city walls, explore the beautiful Girona Cathedral, and learn about the Church of Sant Feliu. There are also some interesting museums in town including the Museum of Jewish History, the Archaeology Museum, and the Film Museum. Also make sure you walk across the famed Eiffel Bridge.

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

Girona 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 Girona. The small city is filled with cafes and restaurants that spill out into the street. There are also markets such as El Lleó Marketplace where you can check out fresh, local items. Many restaurants also have Catalonian style tapas, seafood such as octopus, and garlic shrimp. For breakfast, there are many pastry shops where you can enjoy a European breakfast.

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 Girona Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. However, Girona is not a good 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Girona. It's a surprisingly quiet town, especially compared to other nearby party cities, but there are some nightclubs, bars, and music venues that are worth checking out.

Is Amsterdam or Girona Better for Music?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Girona 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.

Girona is not a live music destination.

Is Amsterdam or Girona Better for its Old Town?

Girona 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, Girona offers plenty to see. It's a beautiful medieval old town with many wandering streets that are lined with storefronts and classic European cafes.

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 Girona?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Girona 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 Girona. In and around the old town you'll find modern shops, local eateries, charming markets, and anything you might need to purchase. There's also no shortage of souvenir and trinket shops, but they have a bit of personality and character to them.

Is Amsterdam or Girona Better for Families?

Most people don't think of either Amsterdam or Girona as a family destination.

Amsterdam doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. 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.

For families, Girona is not always the best place to visit. While the old town is beautiful, with charming colorful buildings, the city itself doesn't have a wide number of activities for kids. There are ice cream shops where they can enjoy a sweet treat. There are also several museums and many restaurants have kid-friendly menus.

Is Amsterdam or Girona Better for Couples?

Amsterdam and Girona 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.

Girona is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The setting is both beautiful and romantic. Couples can enjoy wandering the streets, popping in the many shops, and soaking up the atmosphere. There are also many great restaurants that make for a wonderful night out. Head up the hills towards the cathedral for the best viewpoints, or wander along the river and enjoy the colorful atmosphere.

Is Amsterdam or Girona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Girona is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Girona. Prices aren't too crazy and it's not hard to find a place to stay for an affordable price, but you won't find the lively backpacker scene that is common in many nearby cities.

Is Amsterdam or Girona Better for Students?

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

Girona is popular with students. It's a smaller city with affordable accommodation and many great restaurants. It has a quintessential European atmosphere that makes it a fun place to spend some time as a student

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

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

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

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.

Girona has some public transit options. The town is small enough that you can likely walk anywhere you want to go, but if you need transit, there are 10 local bus routes.

Is Amsterdam or Girona a more walkable city?

Amsterdam and Girona both are world-class 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.

Girona is a very easy city to get around on foot. Everything is easily accessible on foot and its best not to bring a car into town.

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

Should I spend more time in Girona or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Girona?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Amsterdam or Girona to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Amsterdam than Girona because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Amsterdam, and 1-2 days is enough time in Girona.

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

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

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 shopping and museums around the quaint city of Girona. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Girona has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Amsterdam or Girona?

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 museums and food around the ancient destination of Girona. 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 Girona?

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 food and shopping when visiting the colorful city of Girona. 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 Girona?

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.

Girona 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 Barcelona, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Girona?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Girona. When comparing the sizes of Amsterdam and Girona, 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 Girona?

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 Girona in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Amsterdam and Girona. Many travelers come to Amsterdam for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Girona in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Amsterdam is cooler than Girona in the summer. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Girona fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Girona this time of the year. In Amsterdam, it's very sunny this time of the year. Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Girona during summer. Amsterdam gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Girona receives 279 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Amsterdam usually receives more rain than Girona. Amsterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Girona receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Girona in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Amsterdam as well as Girona. 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. Additionally, most visitors come to Girona for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

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

In the autumn, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Girona. Amsterdam gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Girona receives 170 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets less rain in October than Girona. Amsterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Girona receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Girona in the Winter?

Both Girona and Amsterdam are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Amsterdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Girona because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Amsterdam can be very cold during winter. In January, Amsterdam is generally much colder than Girona. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 2°C (36°F), and Girona fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Girona during winter. Amsterdam gets 46 hours of sunny skies, while Girona receives 148 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Amsterdam usually receives more rain than Girona. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Girona receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Girona in the Spring?

Both Girona and Amsterdam during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Girona this time of year.

Amsterdam is much colder than Girona in the spring. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Girona fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Amsterdam often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Girona. Amsterdam gets 166 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Girona receives 177 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets less rain in April than Girona. Amsterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Girona receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Girona and Amsterdam