A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Athens vs. The Hague for Food, Nightlife, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Athens or The Hague?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Athens and The Hague. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Athens

Athens is a ancient, vibrant, and energetic city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

The Hague

The Hague is a diverse, global, and international city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Athens and The Hague: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Acropolis
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Athens or The Hague?

You'll generally find more things to do in Athens than The Hague. Athens is bigger than The Hague, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Athens is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while The Hague is more popular for its music and shopping. Athens is more touristy than The Hague and is known for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. Also, Athens is famous for The Acropolis. The Hague is well known for its large international population and its roll in international politics and diplomacy.

The Acropolis
The Acropolis

How is Athens different from The Hague?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between The Hague and Athens. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Athens or The Hague?

Athens
The Hague

Athens is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. However, The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Athens from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. As a historical capital of the world, this city has countless museums and archeological sites including the famous Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Ancient Agora.

The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Athens or The Hague? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Athens
The Hague

Athens is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Athens has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit The Hague. The city has a diverse population and the large number of ethnic restaurants reflects that.

Is Athens or The Hague Better for Nightlife?

Athens
The Hague

Athens is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Athens has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

The people in The Hague know how to have a good time. Many of the city's restaurants turn into clubs at night. Head to The Grote Markt for some of the most energetic nightlife.

Is Athens or The Hague Better for Music?

Athens
The Hague

The Hague is great for its music scene. However, Athens is not a live music destination.

The music scene in The Hague draws a good crowd. There's an active music scene here and the city actually played an active role in the development and popularity of electronic music.

Athens is not a live music destination.


Is Athens or The Hague Better for its Old Town?

Athens
The Hague

Athens is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town. However, The Hague does not have a historic old town.

Athens offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The city's "historic triangle" is between Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares. This area is also at the political and financial heart of the city.

The Hague does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or The Hague?

Athens
The Hague

The Hague is great for its shopping areas. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in The Hague. There's a dynamic shopping scene with indoor malls, outdoor markets, and a number of neighborhoods that have shops that sell eclectic items.

Athens is a great destination for shopping. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Is Athens or The Hague Better for Families?

Athens
The Hague

Athens is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Athens is a very family-friendly destination. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in The Hague. This city has a bit more of a family-friendly vibe than nearby Amsterdam. Kids enjoy exploring by bike or heading to the Scheveningen Beach Resort.


Is Athens or The Hague Better for Couples?

Athens
The Hague

Athens and The Hague both notable destinations for a couple.

Athens is a good city for couples to visit. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.

The Hague is a nice destination for couples. Couples can enjoy the diverse restaurants and the busting atmosphere that the city offers.

Is Athens or The Hague Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens
The Hague

Athens is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Athens. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

It's common for backpackers to visit The Hague. While most backpackers head to the more popular city of Amsterdam, The Hague has a fun atmosphere with a diversity of activities and restaurants.

Is Athens or The Hague Better for Students?

Athens
The Hague

The Hague is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

The Hague is a very popular place to visit for students. This is a very popular study abroad destination so you'll find plenty of international students living here. It's an internationally oriented city so everyone feels right at home.

Athens is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.


Is Athens or The Hague Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Athens
The Hague

Athens and The Hague both offer high quality public transit to get you around.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Athens. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

Public transit in The Hague is fairly effecient and thorough. There are bus and tram lines throughout the city.

Is Athens or The Hague a more walkable city?

Athens
The Hague

Athens is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

Athens is very walkable. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.

The Hague is a somewhat walkable place. There are a number of walk tours through the city center.

For even more information, also check out Is Athens Worth Visiting? and Is The Hague Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in The Hague or Athens?

How long in Athens or The Hague?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Athens and The Hague. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Athens than in The Hague. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Athens, and 1-3 days is enough time in The Hague.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Athens than The Hague 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 Athens.


  • How many days in Athens or The Hague? Ideal Length of Stay
    Athens 3-7 
    The Hague 1-3

One day in Athens or The Hague?

People visit Athens 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the big city destination of The Hague. One day is often enough time to do most activities.


A weekend in Athens or The Hague?

People visit Athens because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The Hague is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Athens or The Hague?

People visit Athens 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in The Hague. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Athens or The Hague?

Athens 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 Athens, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the diverse big city of The Hague. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, The Best Luxury Tours to Netherlands, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands.


Which place is cheaper, The Hague or Athens?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Athens is €127, while the average daily cost in The Hague is €178. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Athens and The Hague in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Athens 63
    The Hague 104
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Athens 126
    The Hague 208
Compare Hotels in Athens and The Hague

Looking for a hotel in Athens or The Hague? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Athens


Hotels in The Hague


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Athens Hotel Prices and The Hague Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Athens 27
    The Hague 19
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Athens

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Athens:


  • Airport Bus for Two
    6.40
  • Metro
    1.50
  • Metro
    2.00
  • Metro from Airport to City Center
    8.00
  • Taxi from Airport
    35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Athens

Also for Athens, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • VIP VAN Athens Airport Transfer 1 - 8 persons: $141
  • VIP VAN Athens Airport Transfer 1 - 4 persons: $89
  • VIP High Class Limos & Chauffeurs Transfer to Athens: $65
  • VIP Ferry Ticket from Piraeus Port To Mykonos & Private Transfer included: $249
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Athens HTL-APT (ATH): $63
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Athens APT-HTL (ATH): $63
  • Transfer from/to Piraeus Port and Athens city centre hotel: $40
  • Transfer from/to Athens International Airport to city centre: $125
  • Transfer from/to Athens Airport and Athens City Centre: $196
  • Transfer from RAFINA PORT to ALL ATHENS & PIRAEUS HOTELS, up to 4 customers: $97
  • Transfer from Piraeus port to Athens Airport and Vice Versa 22:30PM - 06:29AM: $123
  • Transfer from PIRAEUS PORT to PIRAEUS HOTELS, up to 8 customers: $88

Hired Cars and Shuttles in The Hague

Also for The Hague, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Amsterdam: Private Transfer to/from The Hague: $277
  • From One-Way Private Transfer to Schiphol Airport: $256
  • Private Transfer from The Hague City to Schiphol Airport : $136
  • Private Transfer from The Hague to Amsterdam: $136
  • Taxi Transfer from The Hague to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: $125
  • Eindhoven: Train Transfer Eindhoven from/to Den Haag: $27
  • Amsterdam: Train Transfer Schiphol Airport from/to Den Haag: $20
  • Amsterdam: Train Transfer Amsterdam from/to Den Haag: $17
  • Utrecht: Train Transfer Utrecht from/to Den Haag: $16
  • Den Haag: Train Transfer Den Haag from/to Rotterdam: $8.20

Is it cheaper to fly into Athens or The Hague?

Prices for flights to both The Hague and Athens change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Athens 37
    The Hague 55
Typical Food Prices in Athens

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Athens:


  • Ice cream
    3.00
  • Souvlaki
    2.20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Athens

For Athens, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Hard Rock Cafe Athens with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $24
  • Hard Rock Cafe Athens with Set Lunch or Dinner: $26
  • Street Food Tour Market & City Centre: $42
  • Foodies’ Favorite Food tour: $46
  • Greek Street Food Tour: $51
  • Middle-eastern Cuisine Cooking Class with Meal: $52
  • Street Food Tour with Local Guide and 7 Tastings: $57
  • Traditional Greek Cooking Class and Organic Lunch on Poros: $60
  • Greek Traditional Vegan Cooking Class with Meal: $63
  • Alternative, truly authentic food tour in secret Athens: $63
  • Oriental Kitchen Cooking Classes in Athina: $64
  • Street Food Tour with 7 Tastings: $64

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in The Hague

For The Hague, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • WALKING DINNER DELFT | 3 courses incl. 3 drinks and a lot of fun: $87
  • WALKING DINNER ZOETERMEER | 3 courses + 3 drinks and a lot of fun: $87

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Athens 36
    The Hague 34

Tours and Activities in Athens

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Athens.

  • Ancient Corinth Canal Epidavrous Nafplio Private Tour 8Hours: $180
  • Apostle Paul's Footsteps in Athens Christian Private Tour 5Hours: $150
  • Athens Gems & Charms for the First Time Cruiser: $75
  • Athens Private Day Tour Best place to visit: $272
  • DELPHI and THERMOPYLAE: Full Day Private Tour Visit Arachova 8 H: $203
  • Essential Athens Highlights Half-Day Private Tour with Flexible Options: $259
  • Highlights Athens History Tour: $36
  • Layover Private Tour in Athens: $245
  • Mycenae Lions Gate Epidaurus & Nafplio Full Day Private Tour 8H : $191
  • Private Full Day Tour in Delphi: $212
  • Self-Guided Tour at the Romantic Island of Hydra from Athens: $283
  • Traditional Villages Full day Tour in Santorini: $59

Tours and Activities in The Hague

For The Hague, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in Delft: $3.24
  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in The Hague: $3.24
  • Amsterdam: The Hague, Delft and Rotterdam Private Day Tour: $533
  • Bicycle tour The Hague Highlights: $27
  • Boattour The Hague and Scheveningen: $160
  • Delft: Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Den Haag: Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive Tour: $74
  • Discover Delft with a self-guided Outside Escape city game tour!: $27
  • Discover The Hague's city center with an Outside Escape game tour: $27
  • Drive it yourself electric Dune & Summer Flower GPS audio tour: $96
  • Drive it yourself electric Dutch Countryside GPS audio tour: $96
  • Drive it yourself electric History and Castle GPS audio tour: $96

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Athens 23
    The Hague 30

Sample the Local Flavors in Athens

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Athens:

  • Liquer tasting in Polykala's Distillery Show Room in Athens: $17
  • Greek Wine Tasting: $23
  • The NightCrawlers | Athens Pub Crawl: $26
  • Athens Speakeasy & Alternative Bar Crawl: Discover Hidden Gems: $38
  • Greek Wine Tasting Experience with a Sommelier: $43
  • Old Town Athens Wine Tasting: $52
  • Wine Tasting Odyssey in Athens: $52
  • Greek food and wine tasting: $53
  • Best rated Acropolis Wine Tasting : $53
  • Wine Tasting with a Sommelier under the Acropolis: $59
  • Wine Tasting and Storytelling in a Historical Square in Athina: $60
  • Acropolis Private Wine Tasting @ Finewine store : $61

Sample the Local Flavors in The Hague

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in The Hague:

  • The Hague Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Athens and The Hague, we can see that The Hague is more expensive. And not only is Athens much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Athens would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Athens 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 The Hague would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in The Hague than you might in Athens.

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


Which is Bigger, Athens or The Hague?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 54% larger than the population of The Hague. When comparing the sizes of Athens and The Hague, 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 Athens or The Hague?

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 Athens or The Hague in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and The Hague. Many travelers come to Athens for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to The Hague in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Athens is much warmer than The Hague. Typically, the summer temperatures in Athens in July average around 27°C (81°F), and The Hague averages at about 17°C (62°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in The Hague this time of the year. In Athens, it's very sunny this time of the year. Athens usually receives more sunshine than The Hague during summer. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while The Hague receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Athens usually receives less rain than The Hague. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Athens 27°C (81°F) 
    The Hague 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Athens or The Hague in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Athens as well as The Hague. Many visitors come to Athens in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to The Hague for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In October, Athens is generally much warmer than The Hague. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 19°C (67°F), and The Hague fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Athens this time of the year. In the autumn, Athens often gets more sunshine than The Hague. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while The Hague receives 105 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in October than The Hague. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Athens 19°C (67°F) 
    The Hague 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Athens or The Hague in the Winter?

Both The Hague and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Athens for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to The Hague because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

The weather in The Hague can be very cold. Athens is much warmer than The Hague in the winter. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and The Hague fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Athens usually receives more sunshine than The Hague during winter. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while The Hague receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Athens usually receives less rain than The Hague. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Athens 10°C (51°F) 
    The Hague 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Athens or The Hague in the Spring?

Both The Hague and Athens during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Athens because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the activities around the city are the main draw to The Hague this time of year.

In the spring, Athens is much warmer than The Hague. Typically, the spring temperatures in Athens in April average around 16°C (60°F), and The Hague averages at about 8°C (46°F).

It's quite sunny in Athens. In the spring, Athens often gets more sunshine than The Hague. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while The Hague receives 158 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in April than The Hague. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Athens 16°C (60°F) 
    The Hague 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for The Hague and Athens

Athens The Hague
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)