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

Should you visit Amsterdam or Houston?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Amsterdam or Houston, 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. The famous beauty of Amsterdam is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Amsterdam travel costs.

Houston

Houston is a one-of-a-kind, diverse, and sprawling city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and live music. See Houston travel costs.

Amsterdam and Houston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Houston?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Amsterdam than Houston. While Houston is larger than Amsterdam, Amsterdam has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Amsterdam is better known for its nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Houston is more popular for its food. Amsterdam is more touristy than Houston and is known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. Also, Amsterdam is famous for The Rijksmuseum. Houston is well known for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA.

How is Amsterdam different from Houston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Houston. Head to Houston's Museum District to explore 19 different museums in a walkable area. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Space Center, but other popular museums include the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Children's Museum.

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

Houston 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 Houston. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods. It's a surprisingly diverse city and this is reflected in the restaurant selection around town.

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 Houston Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

People head to Amsterdam just to party. 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.

Many people head to Houston for the nightlife scene. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life. There are a diversity of venues around town including dance clubs, Honky Tonks, and cocktail bars. Some of the most active nightlife areas are Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, Washington Avenue, and Rice Village.

Is Amsterdam or Houston Better for Music?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for its live music scene. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its music scene.

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.

The music scene in Houston is active and vibrant. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Is Amsterdam or Houston Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam is well known for its old town. However, Houston does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of 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.

Houston does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Houston?

Amsterdam is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

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.

Houston has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of upscale malls and shopping centers that have brand names, chain stores, and the occasional local shop where you can pick up items.

Is Amsterdam or Houston More Beautiful?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Houston is not a destination known for its beauty.

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.

Houston is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Amsterdam or Houston Better for Families?

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

Houston is a very kid-friendly city. It is a large city with plenty of things that kids can enjoy including museums, theaters, a zoo, and even the Space Center. The Children's Museum of Houston is perfect for a rainy day. For science loving kids there's the Health Museum and the Museum of Natural Science. Houston also has a Six Flags nearby which the whole family can enjoy.

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 Houston Better for Couples?

Amsterdam is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Houston is a good city for couples to visit. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.

Is Amsterdam or Houston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Houston is not particularly known 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.

Houston is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers skip this sprawling city, but there are some hostels and cheap motels.

Is Amsterdam or Houston Better for Students?

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

Houston is popular with students. It's a large city with a number of universities and a large student population.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

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

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Houston is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Amsterdam can get you around easily. 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Houston. The system includes buses and a limited light rail. Houston is known as a car-centric city and you really need a car to fully experience it.

Is Amsterdam or Houston a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. However, Houston is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

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.

Houston is generally not a very walkable city. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights, but most parts of the city aren't very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Houston or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Houston?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Amsterdam and Houston. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Amsterdam than in Houston. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Amsterdam, and 2-3 days is enough time in Houston.

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

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

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 nightlife and live music around the city of Houston. 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 Houston?

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 live music and food around the diverse big city of Houston. 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 Houston?

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 shopping when visiting the sprawling city of Houston. 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 Houston?

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.

Houston 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 Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Amsterdam and Houston, we can see that Houston 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 Houston 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 Houston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Houston 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 Houston Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Houston?

Houston has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Amsterdam. When comparing the sizes of Amsterdam and Houston, 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 Houston?

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 Houston in the Summer?

Both Houston and Amsterdam are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Amsterdam for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Houston in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Amsterdam is much colder than Houston in the summer. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Houston fluctuates around 84°F (29°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Houston. In July, Amsterdam usually receives less rain than Houston. Amsterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Houston receives 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Houston in the Autumn?

Both Houston and Amsterdam during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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. Also, most visitors come to Houston for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In the autumn, Amsterdam is much colder than Houston. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Amsterdam in October average around 11°C (51°F), and Houston averages at about 71°F (22°C).

Houston gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Amsterdam usually gets less rain in October than Houston. Amsterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Houston receives 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Houston in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Amsterdam and Houston. Most visitors come to Amsterdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Houston 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 Houston. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 2°C (36°F), and Houston fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

In January, Amsterdam usually receives less rain than Houston. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Houston receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Houston in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Amsterdam as well as Houston. The spring months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Houston this time of year.

Amsterdam is much colder than Houston in the spring. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Houston fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

Amsterdam usually gets less rain in April than Houston. Amsterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Houston receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Houston and Amsterdam