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

Should you visit Amsterdam or Rouen?

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

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

Rouen

Rouen is a impressive, relaxing, and historical city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Amsterdam and Rouen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Rouen?

You'll generally find more things to do in Amsterdam than Rouen. Amsterdam is bigger than Rouen, 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 Rouen is more popular for its food. Amsterdam is more touristy than Rouen and is known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. Also, Amsterdam is famous for The Rijksmuseum. Rouen is well known for its architectural history, historical monuments, and sense of culture.

How is Amsterdam different from Rouen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Amsterdam is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Rouen 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 Rouen. You'll find the highest concentration of sights in the city's pedestrian zone. Highlights that you should check out include Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen, Musée des Beaux-Arts, Abbatiale Saint-Ouen, and Aître Saint-Maclou.

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

Rouen 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 Rouen. There are many local specialties found in town. Make sure you try the Passe Crassane, which is a French pear. The town is also known for its cheese, chocolate, and pastries.

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 Rouen Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

People head to Amsterdam just to party. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Rouen. You'll find wine bars, trendy cocktail bars, and local pubs where you can grab a drink.

Is Amsterdam or Rouen Better for Music?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Rouen 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.

Rouen is not a live music destination.

Is Amsterdam or Rouen Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam is notable for its old town. Also, Rouen 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.

Rouen has an old town worth visiting. The old town is where you'll find spectacular Gothic churches and the most charming streets.

Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Rouen?

Amsterdam is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Rouen 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.

Rouen has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Some of the city's best shopping is found along the Rue du Gros-Horloge in the old city center. You'll find independent boutiques and well as upscale vendors.

Is Amsterdam or Rouen Better for Families?

Rouen 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 Rouen. This beautiful city is filled with nice parks, free museums, and towers that offer views over the city. Kids will enjoy climbing the clocktower, eating pastries, or riding a bike around town.

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 Rouen Better for Couples?

Amsterdam and Rouen are both very good 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.

Rouen is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The beautiful city makes a great retreat for couples who enjoy good food and nice architecture. There are many hidden gems around town that make this a favorite French city for many couples.

Is Amsterdam or Rouen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Rouen is a mediocre city 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.

Rouen is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Backpackers may struggle to find a hostel with a social setting, but for those who make it here there are many beautiful things to see.

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

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Amsterdam can get you around easily. 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.

The public transit in Rouen can get you to most places easily. The city has two agencies that offer public transportation. Métro du Rouen is a tramway that runs north to south from Boulingrin in the north to Saint-Sever, where it branches off into two lines (one to Technopôle and one to Georges Braque). There are also buses and rail connections to town.

Is Amsterdam or Rouen a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Rouen 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.

Rouen is a very walkable destination. There are many parts of town that can easily be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Rouen or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Rouen?

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

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

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

Each neighborhood in Amsterdam has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

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

A weekend in Amsterdam or Rouen?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Amsterdam. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the relaxing destination of Rouen. 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 Rouen?

Amsterdam is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Amsterdam has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the charming city of Rouen. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Amsterdam or Rouen?

Each neighborhood in Amsterdam has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Rouen 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Rouen?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Rouen. When comparing the sizes of Amsterdam and Rouen, 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 Rouen?

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 Rouen in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Amsterdam and Rouen. 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 Rouen for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Amsterdam is around the same temperature as Rouen in the summer. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Rouen fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Rouen this time of the year. In Amsterdam, it's very sunny this time of the year. Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Rouen during summer. Amsterdam gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Rouen receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Amsterdam usually receives more rain than Rouen. Amsterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Rouen in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Amsterdam as well as Rouen. 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 Rouen because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Amsterdam is cooler than Rouen. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Amsterdam in October average around 11°C (51°F), and Rouen averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Rouen. Amsterdam gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rouen receives 127 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Rouen. Amsterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Rouen in the Winter?

Both Rouen 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 Rouen this time of year.

It's quite cold in Rouen in the winter. The weather in Amsterdam can be very cold. In January, Amsterdam is generally much colder than Rouen. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 2°C (36°F), and Rouen fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Rouen during winter. Amsterdam gets 46 hours of sunny skies, while Rouen receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Amsterdam usually receives more rain than Rouen. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Rouen in the Spring?

Both Rouen 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. Furthermore, many travelers come to Rouen for the natural beauty.

Amsterdam is cooler than Rouen in the spring. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Rouen fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Amsterdam often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Rouen. Amsterdam gets 166 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rouen receives 172 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets more rain in April than Rouen. Amsterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rouen and Amsterdam