A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Amsterdam vs. Siena for Nightlife, Old Town, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Amsterdam or Siena?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Amsterdam or Siena, 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 historic, canal-lined, and party-oriented 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.

Siena

Siena is a charming, medieval, and history city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Amsterdam and Siena: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Siena?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Amsterdam than Siena. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Amsterdam is very popular for its nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Siena attracts visitors for its food and historical sights. Amsterdam is more touristy than Siena and is known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Rijksmuseum. Siena is famous for its beautiful medieval architecture, its delicious local restaurants, and the twice yearly Palio horserace.

How is Amsterdam different from Siena?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Siena. At the heart of the city is Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and Piazza del Campo. Other world famous sights include Palazzo Pubblico and Museo Civico, Torre del Mangia, and Pinacoteca Nazionale.

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

Siena 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 Siena. The town is all about local flavors and many restaurants use local ingredients in their dishes. Pecorino of Pienza is the local cheese, and you'll also find many cured meats. Local pasta dishes include wild boar ragu and a local spaghetti. You'll also find local meats such as lamb, rabbit, chicken and pork.

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 Siena Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is very popular for nightlife. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Siena. The nightlife is laid back and relaxed. Most visitors enjoy socializing in the evening and meeting friends at Piazza del Campo. There are often live performances which you can enjoy as well as many cafes and wine bars around town.

Is Amsterdam or Siena Better for Music?

Amsterdam is very popular for live music. However, Siena is not a live music destination.

Amsterdam is a world class music destination. The city attracts its share of world renowned DJs and musicians. Popular music venues include Paradiso, De Melkweg, and Chicago Social Club.

Siena is not a live music destination.

Is Amsterdam or Siena Better for its Old Town?

Siena is an unbeatable place for its old town. Also, Amsterdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

With a famous historical old-town, Siena offers plenty to see. The beautiful old town is filled with medieval brick buildings. At the heart of the city is Piazza del Campo, which is a lively square with many neighborhoods spreading out from there.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Siena?

Amsterdam is notable for shopping. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Amsterdam is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Siena. The main shopping street in town is Via Banchi di Sopra, which has many boutiques that sell clothing, bags, and other items. The town also has many leather goods, ceramics, and other local items available.

Is Amsterdam or Siena Better for Families?

Most people don't think of either Amsterdam or Siena 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, Siena is not always the best place to visit. The beauty and history may be lost to the little ones but there is a great atmosphere that even the young ones will appreciate. Kids will enjoy climbing to the top of Torre del Mangia or visiting one of the many playgrounds around town.

Is Amsterdam or Siena Better for Couples?

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

Siena has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. With its impressive beauty and long running history, this is a truly romantic city. The atmosphere is relaxed and there are plazas and neighborhoods that are great for exploring. There are also many great restaurants, superb wine, and world class sights that are not to be missed.

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 Siena Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is very popular for backpackers. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Amsterdam is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. 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 Siena. Many backpackers visit Siena as a daytrip from nearby Florence. While there are some affordable places to stay here, the atmosphere isn't as backpacker friendly as nearby Florence.

Is Amsterdam or Siena Better for Students?

Siena is well known for students. However, Amsterdam is not popular with students.

Siena is a great city to visit as a student. It's home to one of the oldest universities in Italy, and it's a wonderful study abroad destination for any student who wants to spend some time in Italy.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

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

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

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.

Siena has some public transit options. TIEMME is the bus service that runs in and around town. Many lines pass through the train station and provide service from there.

Is Amsterdam or Siena a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is very popular for its walkability. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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.

Siena is a very walkable city. The compact town center is best explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Siena or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Siena?

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

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

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

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

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 Siena. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Siena has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Amsterdam or Siena?

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 history destination of Siena. 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.

Five days in Amsterdam or Siena?

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 beautiful city of Siena. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Amsterdam or Siena?

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.

Siena is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Italy, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Siena?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Siena. When comparing the sizes of Amsterdam and Siena, 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 Siena?

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 Siena in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Amsterdam and Siena. Most visitors come to Amsterdam for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Siena because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Amsterdam is generally cooler than Siena. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 17°C (62°F), and Siena fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Siena this time of the year. In Amsterdam, it's very sunny this time of the year. Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Siena during summer. Amsterdam gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Siena receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Amsterdam usually receives more rain than Siena. Amsterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Siena receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Siena in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Amsterdam as well as Siena. The autumn months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Siena this time of year.

Amsterdam is much colder than Siena in the autumn. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Siena fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Siena. Amsterdam gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Siena receives 177 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets less rain in October than Siena. Amsterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Siena receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Siena in the Winter?

Both Siena and Amsterdam are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Amsterdam this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Siena for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Amsterdam in the winter. In the winter, Amsterdam is much colder than Siena. Typically, the winter temperatures in Amsterdam in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Siena averages at about 7°C (45°F).

Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Siena during winter. Amsterdam gets 46 hours of sunny skies, while Siena receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Amsterdam usually receives around the same amount of rain as Siena. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Siena receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Siena in the Spring?

Both Siena and Amsterdam during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Amsterdam for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Siena in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Amsterdam is generally much colder than Siena. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 8°C (46°F), and Siena fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Siena. Amsterdam gets 166 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Siena receives 192 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets less rain in April than Siena. Amsterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Siena receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Siena and Amsterdam