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

Should you visit Amsterdam or Portland?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Amsterdam or Portland, 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. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include live music, shopping, and museums.

Portland

Portland is a tree-lined, nature-filled, and scenic city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Amsterdam and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Portland?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Amsterdam than Portland. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Amsterdam is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Portland attracts visitors for its hiking and small town charm. Amsterdam is more touristy than Portland and is popular for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Rijksmuseum. Portland is famous for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty.

How is Amsterdam different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Amsterdam is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Portland offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Amsterdam and Portland 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!

Portland may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

Is Amsterdam or Portland Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is very popular for nightlife. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Amsterdam is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Portland has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.

Is Amsterdam or Portland Better for Music?

Amsterdam is very popular for live music. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its live music scene.

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.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Portland. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Is Amsterdam or Portland Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam is a very popular place for its historic old town. However, Portland 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.

Portland does not have a historic old town.

Is Amsterdam or Portland Better for Hiking?

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

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Portland. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.

Amsterdam is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Portland?

Amsterdam is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Amsterdam. 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.

Portland offers some nice shopping areas. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

Is Amsterdam or Portland Better for Families?

Portland 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 Portland. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.

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 Portland Better for Couples?

Amsterdam is a very popular place for romance. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Amsterdam makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Portland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.

Is Amsterdam or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Portland is a great city to visit for backpackers. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

Is Amsterdam or Portland Better for Students?

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

Portland is popular with students. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

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

Amsterdam is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Amsterdam has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. 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.

You'll find some public transit in Portland, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

Is Amsterdam or Portland a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is very popular for its walkability. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

Portland is a very walkable city. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

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

Should I spend more time in Portland or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Portland?

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

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

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

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 live music and shopping around the city of Portland. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Portland?

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 shopping and nightlife around the progressive destination of Portland. 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 Portland?

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 live music when visiting the laid-back city of Portland. 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 Portland?

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.

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

When comparing the travel costs between Amsterdam and Portland, we can see that Amsterdam is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Amsterdam is in Europe and Portland is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Portland?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 37% larger than the population of Portland. When comparing the sizes of Amsterdam and Portland, 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 Portland?

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 Portland in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Amsterdam as well as Portland. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Amsterdam this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Portland for the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Amsterdam is generally cooler than Portland. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 17°C (62°F), and Portland fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Portland. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Amsterdam this time of the year. In the summer, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Portland. Amsterdam gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets more rain in July than Portland. Amsterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Portland in the Autumn?

Both Portland and Amsterdam are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Portland in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Amsterdam is cooler than Portland in the autumn. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Portland fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Portland during autumn. Amsterdam gets 99 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Amsterdam usually receives around the same amount of rain as Portland. Amsterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Portland in the Winter?

Both Portland and Amsterdam during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Amsterdam in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Portland for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Portland can be very cold during winter. Amsterdam can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Amsterdam is much colder than Portland. Typically, the winter temperatures in Amsterdam in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Portland averages at about 40°F (4°C).

In the winter, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Portland. Amsterdam gets 46 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 86 hours of full sun.

Portland gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Amsterdam usually gets less rain in January than Portland. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Portland in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Amsterdam and Portland. 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 Portland because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Amsterdam is generally cooler than Portland. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 8°C (46°F), and Portland fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland this time of the year. Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Portland during spring. Amsterdam gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Amsterdam usually receives less rain than Portland. Amsterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Portland and Amsterdam