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

Should you visit Amsterdam or Honolulu?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Amsterdam or Honolulu, 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 party-oriented, laid-back, and scenic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and live music.

Honolulu

Honolulu is a vibrant, multi-cultural, and energetic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Amsterdam and Honolulu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Honolulu?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Honolulu than Amsterdam. While Amsterdam is larger than Honolulu, Honolulu has more sights and attractions for tourists. Honolulu is very popular for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Amsterdam attracts visitors for its nightlife, music, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty. Amsterdam is famous for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. Honolulu is famous for its multicultural atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic hikes. It is also well known for Pearl Harbor.

How is Amsterdam different from Honolulu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Honolulu 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 Honolulu are among the most recognizable in the world. For many visitors, a trip to Pearl Harbor is one of the most memorable experiences while they're in Hawaii. It's still an active naval base, but it's also a National Historic Landmark that memorializes that historic day in 1941. There are many sights that reflect on the past and you can also pick up tours to the USS Arizona at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. Other cultural sights around Honolulu include the Polynesian Cultural Center, the Shangri-La Museum, and Iolani Palace.

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 Honolulu? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Honolulu 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 Honolulu. The city offers a mix of internationally recognized chain restaurants as well as local mom and pop shops. You'll find a mix of cuisines that reflect the city's multicultural personality. There is plenty of Japanese food around town as well as local Hawaiian dishes. Spam is incorporated into many dishes, but you'll also find seafood and tropical fruits.

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 Honolulu Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

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.

Honolulu has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has the most active nightlife scene on all of the Hawaiian islands. If you're looking for a party, then this is the place to stay. You'll find many bars, clubs, and entertainment options around town, as well as beach parties and festivals. For tourists, the highest concentration of nightlife venues is around Waikiki, which is also where you'll find the most hotels.

Is Amsterdam or Honolulu Better for Music?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for live music. However, Honolulu is not a live music destination.

Amsterdam is known as a music capital 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.

Honolulu is not a live music destination.

Is Amsterdam or Honolulu Better for Resorts?

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Amsterdam is not a resort destination.

Honolulu offers an unforgettable resort vacation. The highest concentration of resorts are around Waikiki where you'll find all of the major names such as the Hilton, Marriott, and the Hyatt.

Amsterdam is not a resort destination.

Is Amsterdam or Honolulu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Honolulu is well known for its diving and snorkeling. However, Amsterdam is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Honolulu to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. There are great beaches around the island and near the city where you can enjoy diving and snorkeling. You'll find coral and tropical fish that make for a wonderful experience.

Amsterdam is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Amsterdam or Honolulu Better for Beaches?

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Amsterdam is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Honolulu are among the best in the world. Nearby there are countless beach destinations such as the famed Waikiki Beach. There are also more local and lesser known stretches of sand where you can escape the tourist crowds. Other great beaches in the area include Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Magic Island, and Lanikai Beach.

Amsterdam is not a beach destination.

Is Amsterdam or Honolulu Better for its Old Town?

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

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.

Honolulu does not have a historic old town.

Is Amsterdam or Honolulu Better for Hiking?

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Amsterdam is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Honolulu draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Both in the city and nearby you'll find world famous hiking trails that offer spectacular views and breathtaking landscapes. There are many natural landmarks and dramatic mountains. Moanalua Valley Trail, also known as the Stairway to Heaven, is one of the top hiking trails in the area. Other popular options include Kuliouou Ridge Trail and Diamond Head Crater Hike.

Amsterdam is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Honolulu?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Honolulu 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 Honolulu. The city has some of the best shopping opportunities in the Hawaiian islands. There are brand name fashion outlets, large shopping malls, and boutique local vendors. Many of the malls are open air and let you enjoy the Hawaiian climate while you browse. Downtown Honolulu and Waikiki both have many shopping opportunities.

Is Amsterdam or Honolulu Better for Families?

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Honolulu is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. There are many kid-friendly beaches, hiking trails, and activities that appeal to families. While Waikiki Beach can get crowded, it is also a great option for kids. Kids will also enjoy snorkeling with sea turtles, swimming with dolphins, or taking surfing lessons. For a cold treat, everyone can enjoy shave ice and the perfect way to wrap up a day is a fun luau.

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 Honolulu Better for Couples?

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

Honolulu has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Romantic resorts, beautiful beaches, and stunning hikes make this a top honeymoon destination for couples. The city has an energy that is unlike anywhere else on the Hawaiian islands, but there are also nature trails and outdoor adventures nearby. There are a diversity of restaurants that highlight both local and international cuisines, and a nightlife scene that will keep you entertained.

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 Honolulu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent 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.

Honolulu is a great city to visit for backpackers. This is one of the easier places to stay in Hawaii as a backpacker. There are a handful of hostels, and public transit is available so having a car isn't as crucial as it is everywhere else.

Is Amsterdam or Honolulu 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, Honolulu 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.

Honolulu has a few public transit options. TheBus is the public bus system through the city and elsewhere on Oahu.

Is Amsterdam or Honolulu a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of 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.

Honolulu is a very walkable city. The most walkable areas are around downtown Honolulu and in Waikiki.

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

Should I spend more time in Honolulu or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Honolulu?

Both Amsterdam and Honolulu have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Honolulu has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Honolulu than Amsterdam. In general, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Amsterdam, and 5-7 days is enough time in Honolulu.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Amsterdam than Honolulu 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 Honolulu?

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 nightlife and food around the city of Honolulu. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Honolulu?

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 food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the multi-cultural big city of Honolulu. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Amsterdam or Honolulu?

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 scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the multi-cultural city of Honolulu. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Amsterdam or Honolulu?

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.

Honolulu is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Honolulu, 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 Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Amsterdam and Honolulu, we can see that Honolulu is more expensive. And not only is Amsterdam much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Amsterdam is in Europe and Honolulu is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Amsterdam would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Amsterdam 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 Honolulu would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Honolulu than you might in Amsterdam.

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

Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Honolulu?

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

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 Honolulu in the Summer?

Both Honolulu and Amsterdam during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Amsterdam this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Honolulu for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Amsterdam is generally much colder than Honolulu. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 17°C (62°F), and Honolulu fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

In Honolulu, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Amsterdam. In the summer, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Honolulu. Amsterdam gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Honolulu receives 303 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets more rain in July than Honolulu. Amsterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Honolulu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Honolulu in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Amsterdam and Honolulu. Many travelers come to Amsterdam for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Honolulu in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Amsterdam is much colder than Honolulu in the autumn. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Honolulu fluctuates around 80°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Honolulu this time of the year. Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Honolulu during autumn. Amsterdam gets 99 hours of sunny skies, while Honolulu receives 246 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Amsterdam usually receives more rain than Honolulu. Amsterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Honolulu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Honolulu in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Amsterdam as well as Honolulu. Many visitors come to Amsterdam in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Honolulu for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Amsterdam can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Amsterdam is much colder than Honolulu. Typically, the winter temperatures in Amsterdam in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Honolulu averages at about 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Honolulu. In the winter, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Honolulu. Amsterdam gets 46 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Honolulu receives 212 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets less rain in January than Honolulu. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Honolulu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Honolulu in the Spring?

Both Honolulu and Amsterdam are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Amsterdam for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Honolulu because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Amsterdam is generally much colder than Honolulu. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 8°C (46°F), and Honolulu fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Honolulu. Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Honolulu during spring. Amsterdam gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Honolulu receives 253 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Amsterdam usually receives more rain than Honolulu. Amsterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Honolulu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Honolulu and Amsterdam