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

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Should you visit Amsterdam or Oslo?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Amsterdam or Oslo, 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 canal-lined, party-oriented, and laid-back city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and shopping.

Oslo

Oslo is a clean, progressive, and park-filled city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, museums, and nightlife.

Amsterdam and Oslo: Pros and Cons

Amsterdam
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good nightlife
  • Good for shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Cons
  • Less family-friendly
Oslo
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Big city activities
Cons
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers


How is Amsterdam different from Oslo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Oslo and Amsterdam. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Amsterdam or Oslo Better for Museums and Historical Sights?

Amsterdam
Oslo

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

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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Oslo. Famous sights around town include the Akershus Fortress, the Folk Museum of Norway, and the Munch Museum.


Is Amsterdam or Oslo Better for Food?

Amsterdam
Oslo

Dining out at restaurants in both Amsterdam and Oslo can be an enjoyable experience.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Amsterdam. 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!

Oslo is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city has a reputation of serving a lot of cured meats and potato dishes, but there is actually a good amount of variation available. Local favorites include smoked salmon, meatballs, and meat stews.

Is Amsterdam or Oslo Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam
Oslo

With more options to choose from, you'll find a more vibrant nightlife in Amsterdam.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Oslo has a few options to choose from. The city's high alcohol prices mean that many locals enjoy their drinks at home during pre-parties before heading out on the town. The atmosphere is usually laid-back and chill, with a diversity of entertainment venues that you can choose between.

Is Amsterdam or Oslo Better for Shopping?

Amsterdam
Oslo

Amsterdam usually beats out Oslo for shopping.

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.

Oslo has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. The shopping that is available includes shopping malls and local boutique shops.

Is Amsterdam or Oslo Better for Families?

Amsterdam
Oslo

Families will find a wider variety of activities in Oslo than Amsterdam.

Oslo is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. The city goes out of its way to integrate kid-friendly activities into everyday life. From playgrounds and parks to interactive museums and nearby amusement parks, this city is among the most kid-friendly around.

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 Oslo Better for Couples?

Amsterdam
Oslo

Amsterdam and Oslo are both fun 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.

Oslo is a good city for couples to visit. You can explore castles, go on forest hikes, or enjoy a couple's massage.

Is Amsterdam or Oslo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam
Oslo

Most people consider Amsterdam to be better for backpackers than Oslo.

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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Oslo. Notoriously expensive, this city does have some hostels, but it can be a bit challenging for those on a budget. Because many backpackers avoid the area due to the costs, it can be challenging to meet other backpackers.

Is Amsterdam or Oslo Better for Public Transit?

Amsterdam
Oslo

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Amsterdam and Oslo.

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.

Oslo has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The system includes buses, trams, undergrounds, local trains, and ferries.

Is Amsterdam or Oslo a more walkable city?

Amsterdam
Oslo

Amsterdam and Oslo both are comparable 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.

Oslo is a very walkable destination. The city has a number of traffic-free areas so it's fun to explore on foot.


Should I spend more time in Oslo or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Oslo?

In either Amsterdam or Oslo, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Amsterdam than Oslo because of the overall number of sights and activities.

The ideal length of time for a trip to Amsterdam is 2-7 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Oslo is 1-5 days.


  • How many days in Amsterdam or Oslo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Amsterdam 2-7 
    Oslo 1-5

One day in Amsterdam or Oslo?

Amsterdam is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

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

A weekend in Amsterdam or Oslo?

Amsterdam is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the progressive big city of Oslo. 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 Oslo?

Amsterdam is a party-oriented big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find nightlife and food around the green city of Oslo. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Amsterdam or Oslo?

Amsterdam is a canal-lined city where you can fill many days. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Oslo 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.

Which city is cheaper, Oslo or Amsterdam?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Amsterdam is €138, while the average daily cost in Oslo is €111. 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 city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Amsterdam and Oslo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Amsterdam €80
    Oslo €66
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Amsterdam €160
    Oslo €132
Compare Hotels in Amsterdam and Oslo

Looking for a hotel in Amsterdam or Oslo? 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 Oslo


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 and Oslo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Amsterdam €16
    Oslo €19
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:

  • Ultra - Amsterdam Private Transfer from Cruise Port to Amsterdam City Centre: $9.55
  • Private Transfer from Cruise Port to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol: $9.55
  • Ultra - Amsterdam Private Transfer from City Centre to Amsterdam Cruise Port: $9.55
  • Private Departure Transfer from Amsterdam City Center to Airport Schiphol (AMS): $32
  • Private Airport Transfer from Amsterdam to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS): $32
  • Private Transfer from PTA Cruise Terminal to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS): $32
  • Transfer in Private Vehicle from Amsterdam City to Airport: $34
  • Premium Private Transfer from Amsterdam Hotels to Airport: $35
  • Private Amsterdam Airport departure Transfer: $38
  • Private Departure Transfer from Amsterdam City to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: $39
  • Private Transfer from Amsterdam City Center to Zaanse Schans: $40
  • Amsterdam local transfers: $42

Typical Local Transportation prices in Oslo

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Oslo are as follows:


  • Tram Ticket
    €6.75

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Oslo

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Oslo:

  • Departure Private Transfer Oslo City to Oslo Airport OSL by Luxury Car: $171
  • Departure Private Transfer Oslo to Oslo Airport OSL by Business Car: $130
  • Departure Private Transfer from Oslo City to Oslo Airport OSL by Luxury Van: $171
  • Luxury Private Transfer from Olso Hotels to Olso Airport: $44
  • Olso: Private Transfer from the City Center to Oslo Airport: $131
  • Oslo Airport Transfers : Oslo City to Oslo Airport OSL in Business Car: $159
  • Oslo Airport Transfers : Oslo City to Oslo Airport OSL in Business Van: $271
  • Oslo City Center to Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL) - Departure Private Transfer: $107
  • Oslo Private Transfer from Oslo city centre to Oslo airport: $233
  • Oslo Private Transfer: Oslo to Oslo Airport (OSL): $186
  • Private Oslo Airport to City Center Transfer: $131
  • Private Airport Transfer: from Oslo to Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL): $86

Is it cheaper to fly into Amsterdam or Oslo?

Prices for flights to both Oslo 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 €35
    Oslo €24
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.

  • Live online cooking class from Classic European 2-course meal: $23
  • Amsterdam Evening Pizza Cruise: $40
  • Three course lunch/dinner voucher: $42
  • Walking Food Tour: $43
  • 3 Course Dinner in the Dark: $48
  • Withlocals the 10 Tastings: Amsterdam's Favourite Private Food Tour with a Local: $50
  • Private Pizza Canal Cruise Amsterdam: $62
  • Dinner with an Amsterdam artist on the river: $62
  • Amsterdam Nightlife Ticket & VIP Dinner at Hard Rock CafĂ©: $63
  • Amsterdam Small Group Food Tour: $69
  • Food Tour in the Albert Cuyp Market Amsterdam: $73
  • Delicious Dutch Dinner in an Amsterdam Canalhouse: $75

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Amsterdam €30
    Oslo €16
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:

  • A tasty stroll through Pijp: An audio tour of some of Amsterdam great food spots: $5.00
  • An Amsterdam introduction: Explore the origins of Amsterdam on an audio tour: $5.00
  • Amsterdam Red Light District Walking Audio Tour by VoiceMap: $5.41
  • Amsterdam West Specialty Coffee Spots Cycling Audio Tour by VoiceMap: $5.41
  • Vondelpark and Old West Neighbourhood Walking Audio Tour by VoiceMap: $5.48
  • Amsterdam Private Tour: Red Light District Exploration Game: $5.65
  • Self-Guided Tour with Over 100 Sights: $5.67
  • The Red Light District self-guided Virtual Experience: The Highlights: $7.45
  • Absolutely Tip-Based Walking Tour With Super Local Guide (2,5 Hours): $8.09
  • Red Light District 1-hour Smartphone Audio Tour: $9.06
  • Amsterdam Red Light District: A Walking Audio Tour on your Phone (1hour): $9.94
  • Silent Disco Club Experience: $9.95

Tours and Activities in Oslo

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Oslo are as follows:

  • Oslo Self-Guided Walking Tour with Audio Guide: $14
  • Kon-Tiki Museum Entrance Ticket: $15
  • Cruise Pass Norway - a discount-benefits card in Norwegian cruise ports: $37
  • Christmas Spirit Tour: $37
  • Local Hotspots Tour of Oslo: $38
  • Oslo Private Tour with a Local Guide: $40
  • Oslo Fjord 2-Hour Sightseeing Cruise: $40
  • Self-Guided Parliament Murder Mystery Tour: $43
  • Akershus Fortress Self-Guided Mystery Tour: $43
  • Oslo Nature Walks: Island Hopping Tour: $52
  • Winter Highlights 3-Hour Bike Tour: $53
  • Express City Tour by E-scooter: $55

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Amsterdam €19
    Oslo €9.01

Sample the Local Flavors in Amsterdam

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

  • Distillery Tour & Tasting: $22
  • Amsterdam Bar Crawl: $27
  • Amsterdam Shared Bar Crawl: $31
  • Private Amsterdam Red Light District and pub tour: $61
  • Guided Craft Beer Brewery Bus Tour with Tastings: $67
  • 4 hour Amsterdam Brewery Tour: $81
  • High Class Culinary Lunch in Amsterdam - Self-Guided Food & Wine Tour: $102
  • Drew's 3-Hour Amsterdam Brewery and Bar Tour to Top Rated Bars: $106
  • Discover 3 gastronomic restaurants in Amsterdam - self-guided food & wine tour: $129
  • Experience 4 Culinary Restaurants in Amsterdam Self-Guided Food & Wine Tour: $152
  • Amsterdam Bachelor Party Bar Crawl: $488

About these numbers

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


When is the best time to visit Amsterdam or Oslo?

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 Oslo in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Amsterdam and Oslo. The summer months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Oslo this time of year.

In July, Amsterdam is generally around the same temperature as Oslo. Temperatures in Amsterdam average around 17°C (62°F), and Oslo stays around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Oslo this time of the year. In Amsterdam, it's very sunny this time of the year. Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Oslo during summer. Amsterdam gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Oslo receives 246 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Amsterdam usually receives less rain than Oslo. Amsterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Amsterdam 17°C (62°F) 
    Oslo 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Amsterdam or Oslo in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Amsterdam as well as Oslo. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Amsterdam this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Oslo for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Amsterdam is a little warmer than Oslo in the autumn. The temperature in Amsterdam is usually 11°C (51°F) in October, and Oslo stays around 7°C (45°F).

In the autumn, Amsterdam often gets more sunshine than Oslo. Amsterdam gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oslo receives 86 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets less rain in October than Oslo. Amsterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Amsterdam 11°C (51°F) 
    Oslo 7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Amsterdam or Oslo in the Winter?

Both Oslo and Amsterdam are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Amsterdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Oslo in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Oslo can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Amsterdam. In the winter, Amsterdam is much warmer than Oslo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Amsterdam in January are around 2°C (36°F), and Oslo is about -4°C (25°F).

Amsterdam usually receives more sunshine than Oslo during winter. Amsterdam gets 46 hours of sunny skies, while Oslo receives 40 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Amsterdam usually receives more rain than Oslo. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Amsterdam 2°C (36°F) 
    Oslo -4°C (25°F)

Should I visit Amsterdam or Oslo in the Spring?

Both Oslo and Amsterdam during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Amsterdam in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Oslo for the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Amsterdam is generally a little warmer than Oslo. Temperatures in Amsterdam average around 8°C (46°F), and Oslo stays around 6°C (42°F).

In the spring, Amsterdam often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Oslo. Amsterdam gets 166 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oslo receives 178 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets more rain in April than Oslo. Amsterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Oslo receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Amsterdam 8°C (46°F) 
    Oslo 6°C (42°F)

Typical Weather for Oslo and Amsterdam

Amsterdam Oslo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) -4°C (25°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) -3°C (26°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 1°C (33°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in) 6°C (42°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 12°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 16°C (61°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 18°C (64°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 16°C (61°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 12°C (53°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 1°C (35°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Dec 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) -2°C (28°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)


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Amsterdam vs. Oslo Travel Comparison

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