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

Should you visit Amsterdam or Giverny?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Amsterdam or Giverny, 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. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Giverny

Giverny is a inspiring, picturesque, and peaceful town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food and museums.

Amsterdam and Giverny: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Rijksmuseum
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Home and Gardens of Claude Monet
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Giverny?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Amsterdam than Giverny, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Amsterdam is better known for its nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Giverny is more popular for its food and small town charm. Amsterdam is well known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. Also, Amsterdam is famous for The Rijksmuseum. Giverny is well known for being the home and inspiration for Claude Monet.

How is Amsterdam different from Giverny?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Amsterdam
Giverny

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

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 Giverny. The town is most notable as the home of Claude Monet between 1883 and 1926. Highlights of a visit include visiting Jardin d'Eau (The Water Garden), The Normandy Garden, and Monet's House.


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

Amsterdam
Giverny

Giverny is a nice place to visit for its restaurant scene. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Giverny. There are cozy cafes and charming restaurants in the town. If you visit as part of a tour, a restaurant stop may be included.

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 Giverny Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam
Giverny

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Giverny is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Amsterdam has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Giverny is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Amsterdam or Giverny Better for Music?

Amsterdam
Giverny

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for its live music scene. However, Giverny 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.

Giverny is not a live music destination.


Is Amsterdam or Giverny Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam
Giverny

Amsterdam is great for its old town. However, Giverny does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Amsterdam. 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.

Giverny does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Giverny?

Amsterdam
Giverny

Amsterdam is great for its shopping opportunities. However, Giverny is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Amsterdam is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Giverny is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Amsterdam or Giverny Better for Families?

Amsterdam
Giverny

Most people don't think of either Amsterdam or Giverny 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, Giverny is not always the best place to visit. The gardens are stunning and the house is impressive, but it's best to prepare younger kids with some activities beforehand. Even the most art-minded children will appreciate a hands-on activity that helps bring the experience to life.


Is Amsterdam or Giverny Better for Couples?

Amsterdam
Giverny

Amsterdam and Giverny are both very good 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.

Giverny is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The setting seeped in romance and the gardens bring art to life. On occasion you may even see a young couple get engaged during their visit.

Is Amsterdam or Giverny Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam
Giverny

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Giverny is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Amsterdam is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Giverny is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Many people, backpackers included, visit the town as a day trip from Paris. It's possible to visit by train and shuttle bus.

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

Amsterdam
Giverny

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Giverny is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

Public transit in Amsterdam is top-notch. 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.

Giverny has a few public transit options. You can reach Giverny by train from Paris. You'll leave from the Gare Saint-Lazare train station in Paris and arrive in the town of Vernon. The trip is about 45 minutes. From there you can take a bus or taxi on to Giverny.


Is Amsterdam or Giverny a more walkable city?

Amsterdam
Giverny

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Giverny is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its ease of walking around.

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.

Giverny is a somewhat walkable city. Many people choose to walk between the town of Vernon and Giverny, both of which are worth visiting. They're separated by about 6 kilometers (3.5 miles).

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

Should I spend more time in Giverny or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Giverny?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Amsterdam or Giverny to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Amsterdam than Giverny 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 Giverny.

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

Couples should spend more time in Amsterdam than Giverny. 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 Giverny 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.


  • How many days in Amsterdam or Giverny? Ideal Length of Stay
    Amsterdam 2-7 
    Giverny 1-2

One day in Amsterdam or Giverny?

Because Amsterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find food and museums around the town of Giverny. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Giverny has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Amsterdam or Giverny?

Because Amsterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Amsterdam has to offer.

You'll find museums and food around the serene destination of Giverny. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Amsterdam or Giverny?

Amsterdam is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Amsterdam has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the picturesque town of Giverny. 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 Giverny?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Amsterdam. Because Amsterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Giverny 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 Coach Bus Tours in France, and The Best Adventure Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Giverny or Amsterdam?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Amsterdam is €175, while the average daily cost in Giverny is €125. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Amsterdam and Giverny in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Amsterdam 102
    Giverny 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Amsterdam 204
    Giverny 120
Compare Hotels in Amsterdam and Giverny

Looking for a hotel in Amsterdam or Giverny? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Amsterdam


Hotels in Giverny


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Amsterdam Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Amsterdam 20
    Giverny 48
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Amsterdam

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Amsterdam:


  • Ride on Tram
    3.20
  • Renting a Bike
    15
  • One Hour Canal Cruise
    10
  • Single Day Transit Pass
    2.60
  • Transit Pass to Amsterdam Airport
    3.40

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Amsterdam

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Amsterdam:

  • Private Transfer to/from Bruges: $823
  • Kinderdijk & Delft Private Day Trip w/ Transfers: $802
  • Private Transfer to/from Brussels: $738
  • Private Transfer to/from Antwerp: $588
  • Private Transfer to Bruges: $385
  • Amsterdam Cruise Port: Private Transfer to The Hague hotels: $333
  • Rotterdam: Private transfer to/from Schiphol Airport: $310
  • Amsterdam and Rotterdam: 1-Way Private Transfer: $310
  • Schiphol Airport Private Transfer to Brussels: $291
  • Luxury transfer From Amsterdam Schiphol airport to Rotterdam Cruise terminal : $284
  • Private Direct Transfer from Amsterdam to Bruges: $274
  • Private Minivan transfer to Rotterdam: $273

Is it cheaper to fly into Amsterdam or Giverny?

Prices for flights to both Giverny and Amsterdam change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Amsterdam 43
    Giverny 35
Typical Food Prices in Amsterdam

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Amsterdam:


  • Afternoon Tea
    6.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Amsterdam

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Amsterdam.

  • Food Tour Amsterdam (Tip Based): $5.45
  • Amsterdam Self-Guided Food Tour in De Pijp Neighbourhood : $8.18
  • Self-Guided Food Tour in De Pijp Neighbourhood: $13
  • Self-Guided Food Tour in De Jordaan Neighbourhood: $13
  • Self-Guided Food Tour of Amsterdam's De Jordaan District: $14
  • Exclusive Burger Dinner Cruise: $32
  • Pizza Cruise with Drinks: $40
  • Evening Canal Cruise with Pizza and Drinks: $42
  • Amsterdam Nightlife Ticket with A GOLD MENU Hard Rock Dinner: $43
  • Burger Dinner Cruise through the Amsterdam Canals: $43
  • Food Tour Jordaan District: $51
  • Food Tour Amsterdam's Jordaan District Self-Guided: $52

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Amsterdam 37
    Giverny 26
Typical Entertainment Prices in Amsterdam

Here are a few typical costs in Amsterdam for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Two tickets to the Houseboat Museum
    6.00
  • Entry for two to the Anne Frank House
    17

Tours and Activities in Amsterdam

Here are a few actual costs in Amsterdam for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Amstagram Tour & Moco Experience: $53
  • Anne Frank Story & Neighborhood Walk Tour in Amsterdam: $46
  • 1 Hour Private Amsterdam Rickshaw Tour : $109
  • 1, 2 or 3-7 Days Nightclubs & Best Nightlife in Amsterdam Ticket: $14
  • 1-Hour Canal Cruise in the Evening : $22
  • 2 Hour Exclusive Canal Boat Cruise w/ Dutch snacks & Onboard Bar: $42
  • 2 Hour Exclusive Canal Cruise: Including drinks & Dutch snacks: $63
  • 2 Hours Canal Cruise to Amsterdam’s Hidden Gems: $84
  • 2 Hours Private Amsterdam Rickshaw Tour: $213
  • 2 hours Amsterdam City Tour in Pedicab: $218
  • 3 Hour Self-guided Cocktail Walking Tour in Amsterdam by WOGO: $44
  • 3 hour Amsterdam Private Guide Walking Tour with an Amsterdam born raised Guide: $186

Tours and Activities in Giverny

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Giverny.

  • Bike tour from Vernon to Giverny with local guide: $37
  • Monet’s House and Gardens Skip-the-Line Tour: $59
  • Giverny Monet House and Gardens Skip the line Walking tour: $60
  • Monet's House and Gardens Guided Tour: $62
  • Guided Tour of Monet's Gardens/small group: $63
  • Guided tour Monet's house and gardens/small group: $64
  • Trip from Paris to Monet's house in Giverny Skip the Line: $96
  • Monet's House & Gardens Private Guided Walking Tour: $256
  • Monet's House & Gardens Private Guided Walking Tour: $278
  • Giverny Private Guided Walking Tour: $294

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Amsterdam 24
    Giverny 6.64

Sample the Local Flavors in Amsterdam

Also in Amsterdam, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Amsterdam Private Self-Guided Pub Crawl Pub Quiz: $21
  • Amsterdam Private Self Guided Pub Crawl: $22
  • Bar Crawl with Shots and Beer Maid Guide: $25
  • Central Pub Crawl and Nightlife Experience: $27
  • Red Light District Pub Crawl: $27
  • Distillery Tour & Tasting at Spirited Union: $27
  • Original Pub Crawl Party with VIP Entrance: $29
  • Chateau Urban Wine Tasting and optional bites: $32
  • Self-guided Red Light District Pub Crawl Mystery: $37
  • Leidseplein and Red Light Pub Crawl: 2 Night Pass: $37
  • Red Light District and Local Pub Tour: $39
  • Dutch Cheese and Wine Tasting: $42


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

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


Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Giverny?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 1310 times larger than the population of Giverny. When comparing the sizes of Amsterdam and Giverny, 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 Giverny?

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 Giverny in the Summer?

Both Giverny 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. Also, most visitors come to Giverny for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Amsterdam is cooler than Giverny in the summer. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Giverny fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In Giverny, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Amsterdam. In the summer, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Giverny. Amsterdam gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Giverny receives 241 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets more rain in July than Giverny. Amsterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Giverny receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Amsterdam 17°C (62°F) 
    Giverny 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Amsterdam or Giverny in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Amsterdam and Giverny. 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. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Giverny because of the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Amsterdam is cooler than Giverny. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Amsterdam in October average around 11°C (51°F), and Giverny averages at about 13°C (56°F).

Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Giverny during autumn. Amsterdam gets 99 hours of sunny skies, while Giverny receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Amsterdam usually receives more rain than Giverny. Amsterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Giverny receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Amsterdam 11°C (51°F) 
    Giverny 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Amsterdam or Giverny in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Giverny in the winter. The weather in Amsterdam can be very cold. In January, Amsterdam is generally much colder than Giverny. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 2°C (36°F), and Giverny fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Giverny. Amsterdam gets 46 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Giverny receives 62 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets more rain in January than Giverny. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Giverny receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Amsterdam 2°C (36°F) 
    Giverny 5°C (40°F)

Should I visit Amsterdam or Giverny in the Spring?

Both Giverny 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 Giverny for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Amsterdam is cooler than Giverny in the spring. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Giverny fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Amsterdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Giverny during spring. Amsterdam gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Giverny receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Amsterdam usually receives around the same amount of rain as Giverny. Amsterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Giverny receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Amsterdam 8°C (46°F) 
    Giverny 11°C (52°F)

Typical Weather for Giverny and Amsterdam

Amsterdam Giverny
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 5°C (40°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (42°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 8°C (47°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in) 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (1.9 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 20°C (68°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 20°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (56°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 5°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)