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

Should you visit Amsterdam or Pamplona?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Amsterdam or Pamplona, 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. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and shopping.

Pamplona

Pamplona is a historic, elegant, and laid-back city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

Amsterdam and Pamplona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Pamplona?

You'll generally find more things to do in Amsterdam than Pamplona. Amsterdam is bigger than Pamplona, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Amsterdam is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Pamplona is more popular for its food and hiking. Amsterdam is more touristy than Pamplona and is known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. Also, Amsterdam is famous for The Rijksmuseum. Pamplona is well known for being the home of the Running of the Bulls Festival.

How is Amsterdam different from Pamplona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Amsterdam is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Pamplona. Although most people visit in July for the Running of the Bulls, throughout the year there are some interesting museums and sights around town. You can check out the Cathedral of Pamplona, the Museo de Navarra, and the main plaza in town, Plaza del Castillo.

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

Pamplona 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 Pamplona. Local cuisine includes lots of fresh vegetables like mushrooms, artichokes, asparagus, and onion. You'll find many unique dishes in the area, and you shouldn't leave without trying the txistorra (sausage), revuelto de setas (eggs and mushrooms), and ajoarriero (cod).

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 Pamplona Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Amsterdam is a must-see party destination. 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.

Pamplona has a large number of nightlife venues. There's a good sized university population that keeps the nightlife active around town. The Old Quarter is likely where you'll find the most going on, particularly around Calle San Nicolás and Calle Estafeta. Earlier in the evening the crowd is pretty young, but as the evening passes you'll find the crowd matures a bit.

Is Amsterdam or Pamplona Better for Music?

Amsterdam is terrific for its live music scene. However, Pamplona is not a live music destination.

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.

Pamplona is not a live music destination.

Is Amsterdam or Pamplona Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam is a well-known place for its old town. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

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.

Pamplona has an old town worth visiting. You'll find elegant buildings and grand plazas around the Old Quarter.

Is Amsterdam or Pamplona Better for Hiking?

Pamplona is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Amsterdam is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Pamplona. It's a stop off on the famed Camino de Santiago, so if you want to walk part of the route, this is a nice place to explore.

Amsterdam is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Pamplona?

Amsterdam is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Pamplona has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find some good markets around town. It's also fun to shop for local handicrafts or souvenirs to remember your trip by.

Is Amsterdam or Pamplona Better for Families?

Pamplona is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Pamplona. The city is very green, with many parks and gardens where kids can stretch their legs. There's also the Pamplona Planetarium and several museums that relate to environmental education.

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 Pamplona Better for Couples?

Amsterdam is a well-known place for its romantic activities. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Amsterdam is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Pamplona is a good city for couples to visit. Although it's most known for the Running of the Bulls in July, the city also has some interesting sights at other times of the year. Couples can walk around the city walls, or explore the many parks in town. There are also some interesting museums.

Is Amsterdam or Pamplona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is terrific for backpackers. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Pamplona. Backpackers are drawn to this city during July for the Running of the Bulls festival. It's also a stop along the Camino de Santiago, which brings in a young, budget-oriented crowd.

Is Amsterdam or Pamplona Better for Students?

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

Pamplona is popular with students. This is a quiet city, which appeals to some students. The laid back atmosphere makes it a nice place to relax and learn.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

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

Amsterdam is terrific for its public transit. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Amsterdam can take you anywhere. 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.

Pamplona has some public transit options. There's a comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Amsterdam or Pamplona a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Amsterdam on foot. The historic parts of the city are very walkable and much of the city is best explored on foot.

Pamplona is a very walkable destination. It's a stop off on the Camino de Santiago, so many people arrive on foot. It's also an easy city to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Pamplona or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Pamplona?

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

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

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

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 shopping and museums around the city of Pamplona. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pamplona has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Amsterdam or Pamplona?

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 museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Pamplona. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Pamplona?

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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic city of Pamplona. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Amsterdam or Pamplona?

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.

Pamplona is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 3-Week Tours in Spain, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Pamplona?

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

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 Pamplona in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Amsterdam and Pamplona. Many visitors come to Amsterdam in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Pamplona for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pamplona this time of the year. In Amsterdam, it's very sunny this time of the year. Amsterdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pamplona during summer. Amsterdam gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Amsterdam usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Amsterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Pamplona in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Amsterdam as well as Pamplona. 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. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Pamplona because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Amsterdam is cooler than Pamplona. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Amsterdam in October average around 11°C (51°F), and Pamplona averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Pamplona. Amsterdam gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 144 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pamplona. Amsterdam usually gets less rain in October than Pamplona. Amsterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Pamplona in the Winter?

Both Pamplona and Amsterdam are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Pamplona this time of year.

The weather in Amsterdam can be very cold. In January, Amsterdam is generally much colder than Pamplona. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 2°C (36°F), and Pamplona fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Pamplona during winter. Amsterdam gets 46 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 85 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pamplona. In January, Amsterdam usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Pamplona in the Spring?

Both Pamplona and Amsterdam during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Amsterdam this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Pamplona for the activities around the city.

Amsterdam is much colder than Pamplona in the spring. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Pamplona fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Amsterdam often gets more sunshine than Pamplona. Amsterdam gets 166 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 141 hours of full sun.

Pamplona gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Amsterdam usually gets less rain in April than Pamplona. Amsterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Pamplona and Amsterdam