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

Should you visit Amsterdam or Portofino?

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

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

Portofino

Portofino is a opulent, exclusive, and luxurious seaside village. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Amsterdam and Portofino: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Portofino?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Amsterdam than Portofino, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Amsterdam is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Portofino is more popular for its food, resorts, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Amsterdam is well known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. Also, Amsterdam is famous for The Rijksmuseum. Portofino is well known for its picturesque harbor, high end shopping, strikingly blue waters, and popularity with superyachts.

How is Amsterdam different from Portofino?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Amsterdam is notable for its sights and museums. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village 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.

While most people don't head to Portofino specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The village is mostly about soaking up the atmosphere, but you can also visit sights such as Sun Church of St. George and Cervara Abbey.

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

Portofino 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 Portofino. Located by the sea, you'll enjoy tons of great seafood here. Make sure you try the mussels, swordfish, and salt 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 Portofino Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Portofino is not as famous, but is still a good seaside village to visit for its evening party scene.

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.

Portofino has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Most of the nightlife is found around Piazzetta (Oliveri Square) and Molo Umberto I. Happy hours (aperitivo) start around 5pm or 6pm and then as the evening continues, the party often moves to Paraggi Beach.

Is Amsterdam or Portofino Better for Music?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Portofino 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.

Portofino is not a live music destination.

Is Amsterdam or Portofino Better for Resorts?

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

Portofino offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Known for it's exclusive luxury, there are a number of high end resorts in the area. Popular options include Splendido, Sublimis Boutique Hotel, and Grand Hotel Miramare.

Amsterdam is not a resort destination.

Is Amsterdam or Portofino Better for Beaches?

Portofino is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Amsterdam is not a beach destination.

Portofino has a beach worth visiting. Like much of the Italian coast, the beaches in the area are dramatic and beautiful. They're also rocky and pebbly and can get a bit crowded during the summer months.

Amsterdam is not a beach destination.

Is Amsterdam or Portofino Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam and Portofino both have very good historical old towns that attract visitors.

Many visitors go to Amsterdam to see the historical old town. 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.

Portofino is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Despite evolving into a famous resort town, Portofino still holds on to its fishing village charm.

Is Amsterdam or Portofino Better for Hiking?

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

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Portofino. There are many beautiful hikes and treks along the coastline that pass by scenic landscapes and breathtaking views.

Amsterdam is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Portofino?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Portofino 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 Portofino. The quaint cobblestone streets are lined with high end boutiques that target the opulent jet-setter crowd that frequents Portofino. Much of the shopping is around Martiri dell'Olivetta Square.

Is Amsterdam or Portofino Better for Families?

Most people don't think of either Amsterdam or Portofino as a family destination.

Amsterdam doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. 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.

For families, Portofino is not always the best place to visit. The town has a picturesque setting and some beautiful pebbly beaches. It's fun for kids to run around the town, explore by kayak, or play in the waters edge.

Is Amsterdam or Portofino Better for Couples?

Portofino is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Amsterdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Portofino has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Set beautifully against the ocean's edge, this famous Italian town makes for a truly romantic holiday. Ogle the mega yachts in the harbor and then wander the charming streets while you soak in the atmosphere.

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.

Is Amsterdam or Portofino Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village 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.

Portofino is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Known for it's high prices, the town isn't particularly popular with the backpacker crowd. It is possible to stay outside of town and head in for a day trip.

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

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for its public transit. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Portofino. The closet train stations are Santa Margherita Ligure and Camogli. You can catch a bus from the Santa Margherita train station. There are also some ferry options.

Is Amsterdam or Portofino a more walkable city?

Amsterdam and Portofino both are fantastic 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.

Portofino is a very easy city to get around on foot. It's easy to walk around the village and then explore the countryside on one of the nearby trails.

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

Should I spend more time in Portofino or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Portofino?

In either Amsterdam or Portofino, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Amsterdam than Portofino because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Amsterdam, and 2-5 days is enough time in Portofino.

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

Couples should spend more time in Portofino than Amsterdam. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Portofino that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Amsterdam than Portofino 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 Portofino?

People visit Amsterdam because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

Even though Portofino is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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 Portofino?

People visit Amsterdam because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Portofino is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife. 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 seaside village has to offer. This seaside village offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Amsterdam or Portofino?

People visit Amsterdam because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Portofino is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this seaside village makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this seaside village has to offer.

A week in Amsterdam or Portofino?

Amsterdam is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Amsterdam, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Portofino is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Historical Tours in Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Amsterdam and Portofino, we can see that Portofino is more expensive. And not only is Amsterdam much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Portofino would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Portofino 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 Portofino Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Portofino?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 1400 times larger than the population of Portofino. When comparing the sizes of Amsterdam and Portofino, 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.