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

Should you visit Amsterdam or Orlando?

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

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

Orlando

Orlando is a entertaining, active, and family-friendly city. And you can't forget about the shopping, theater, and nightlife.

Amsterdam and Orlando: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Orlando?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Amsterdam than Orlando. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Amsterdam is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Orlando attracts visitors for its theatre productions, food, and resorts. Amsterdam is famous for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Rijksmuseum. Orlando is famous for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities.

How is Amsterdam different from Orlando?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Amsterdam is great for its historical sights. However, Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Amsterdam offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Amsterdam or Orlando Better for Theater?

Orlando is a nice place to visit for its theatre productions. However, Amsterdam is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in Orlando. The city has a number of local theaters that are fun to explore. As home to Disney World and Universal Studios, there are also a number of shows available that are affiliated with the parks.

Amsterdam is not a theatre destination.

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

Orlando 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 Orlando. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. You'll also find many restaurants at Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs. Food can be expensive, and the quality can vary dramatically. Many people enjoy going to dinner shows as well. Restaurants can be challenging also, as reservations must be made months in advance.

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 Orlando Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is renowned for nightlife. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Amsterdam is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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 Orlando. If you need a break from the kids, you'll find some of the best nightlife around Orlando at Disney Springs, Wall Street Plaza and Universal CityWalk.

Is Amsterdam or Orlando Better for Music?

Amsterdam is renowned for live music. However, Orlando 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.

Orlando is not a live music destination.

Is Amsterdam or Orlando Better for Resorts?

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

Orlando offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Disney World is famous for its many iconic resorts. Some of the most popular are the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort. There are also many resorts that aren't affiliated with the major theme parks. These tend to be more affordable, but transportation options to and from the park are limited. You'll also miss out on the perks that come with staying at a theme park resort.

Amsterdam is not a resort destination.

Is Amsterdam or Orlando Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam is great for its historic old town. However, Orlando 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.

Orlando does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Orlando?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Orlando 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 Orlando. Shopping is a dream for any Disney enthusiast. There are countless malls and shops, both on and off the Disney grounds, that sell all of the Disney paraphernalia. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are the most famous areas. During the evenings, these areas can be very crowded, but during the day they're less popular as most people are at the theme parks.

Is Amsterdam or Orlando Better for Christmas?

Orlando is an unbeatable place for its Christmas activities. However, Amsterdam does not offer Christmas activities.

During Christmas, Orlando is not to be missed. Christmas at Disney World is lots of fun. There are decorations and all kinds of seasonal activities around town.

Amsterdam does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Amsterdam or Orlando Better for Families?

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

Orlando is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Known as a theme park capital, here you'll find the iconic Disney World, as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and many more. While most people spend their vacation at the Disney or Universal resorts, there is also an endless supply of less mainstream parks and activities in the area.

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 Orlando Better for Couples?

Amsterdam is great for romance. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

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.

Orlando makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While most people visit the area with family, there is a niche crowd that enjoys honeymooning or vacationing here as a couple. There are many beautiful restaurants and interesting activities that couples can enjoy together. This is the perfect trip for fun loving couples who don't take themselves to seriously.

Is Amsterdam or Orlando Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Orlando is not a good destination 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.

Orlando is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not exactly a backpacker destination, but there are a surprising number of cheap motels that aren't affiliated with the major parks.

Is Amsterdam or Orlando Better for Students?

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

Orlando is popular with students. Most people don't think about education when they think about Orlando, but there are actually a diversity of internships and opportunities for students to learn in a fun setting.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

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

Amsterdam is renowned for times when you don't have a car. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its public transit.

Amsterdam has a great 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.

Public transit is generally limited in Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.

Is Amsterdam or Orlando a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is renowned for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination 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.

Orlando is not a walkable city. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Orlando or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Orlando?

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

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

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

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 shopping and theater around the city of Orlando. 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 Orlando?

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 theater and nightlife around the entertaining destination of Orlando. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Orlando?

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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the entertaining city of Orlando. 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 Orlando?

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.

Orlando 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 Orlando, 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Orlando?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Orlando. When comparing the sizes of Amsterdam and Orlando, 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 Orlando?

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 Orlando in the Summer?

Both Orlando 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 Orlando for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Amsterdam is generally much colder than Orlando. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 17°C (62°F), and Orlando fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

Orlando gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Amsterdam usually gets less rain in July than Orlando. Amsterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Orlando receives 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Orlando in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Amsterdam and Orlando. 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 Orlando because of the shopping scene.

Amsterdam is much colder than Orlando in the autumn. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Orlando fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

Orlando receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Amsterdam usually receives less rain than Orlando. Amsterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Orlando receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Orlando in the Winter?

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

The weather in Amsterdam can be very cold. In the winter, Amsterdam is much colder than Orlando. Typically, the winter temperatures in Amsterdam in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Orlando averages at about 59°F (15°C).

Amsterdam usually gets more rain in January than Orlando. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Orlando receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Orlando in the Spring?

Both Orlando 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.

In April, Amsterdam is generally much colder than Orlando. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 8°C (46°F), and Orlando fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

In April, Amsterdam usually receives less rain than Orlando. Amsterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Orlando receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Orlando and Amsterdam