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

Should you visit Beijing or Amsterdam?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Beijing and Amsterdam can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Beijing

Beijing is a fascinating, historic, and massive city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Beijing is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Beijing travel costs.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a party-oriented, laid-back, and scenic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. The famous beauty of Amsterdam is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Amsterdam travel costs.

Beijing and Amsterdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Beijing or Amsterdam?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Amsterdam than Beijing. While Beijing is larger than Amsterdam, Amsterdam has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Amsterdam is more popular for its nightlife, music, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Beijing is known for its museums and attractions and food. Beijing is popular for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. Amsterdam is popular for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also home to The Rijksmuseum.

How is Beijing different from Amsterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Beijing or Amsterdam?

Beijing is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Amsterdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Beijing are among the most recognizable in the world. The city is filled with iconic landmarks including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and The Temple of Heaven. It's also essential that you plan a trip outside of town to the world renowned Great Wall of China. The trip takes about an hour and you can organize a tour through almost any hotel or tour company.

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.

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

Beijing is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Beijing is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city has a number of iconic dishes that have put it on the culinary map. The most notable dish is Peking Duck, which is a delectable crispy roast duck that is usually served with cucumber, scallions, sweet bean sauce and pancakes or other steamed buns. Hot pots are another must-try experience in the city, and, of course, you have to experience the dumplings. A huge part of a visit to Beijing is experiencing its long running culinary history.

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 Beijing or Amsterdam Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

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.

The nightlife in Beijing has something for everybody. Live performances are popular in the city, and range from concerts to magic shows and acrobatics. There is also an active bar scene around town. Some of the most popular nightlife areas include Sanlitun and Houhai.

Is Beijing or Amsterdam Better for Music?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Beijing is not a live music destination.

In Amsterdam you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The city attracts its share of world renowned DJs and musicians. Popular music venues include Paradiso, De Melkweg, and Chicago Social Club.

Beijing is not a live music destination.

Is Beijing or Amsterdam Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Beijing 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.

Beijing does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Beijing or Amsterdam?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Amsterdam and Beijing.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Beijing. There are many unique handicrafts that you can purchase around town. Popular souvenirs include silk, pearls, and snuff bottles with pictures inside. The city has many shopping streets as well as markets and shopping malls that are worth visiting.

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.

Is Beijing or Amsterdam More Beautiful?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Amsterdam is one of the main draws. With its beautiful canals, historic churches, and relaxing parks, this is a beautiful city.

Beijing is a gorgeous place to visit. The parks, gardens, palaces, and temples all offer a glimpse into the past, while also letting you enjoy the city and culture that exists today.

Is Beijing or Amsterdam Better for Families?

Beijing 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 Beijing. The city offers a unique cultural immersion that kids and adults can enjoy. Wander through the Forbidden City or watch your kids be mesmerized by a Chinese acrobatics show. It's also fun to get lost in the Hutongs or test their culinary palates by visiting a snack street.

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 Beijing or Amsterdam Better for Couples?

Amsterdam is a great destination for couples. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Beijing is a nice destination for couples. The culture, history, and food all make this a stunning place to visit. While romance doesn't immediately spring to mind when you think of Beijing, there are shows and fine dining restaurants that couples will enjoy. There are also many luxury hotels with spas and other amenities.

Is Beijing or Amsterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Amsterdam is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Beijing is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city has many hostels and budget-friendly options. There isn't the backpacker community vibe that you may get in other Asian cities, but if you organize an excursion through your hostel, you're sure to make a few friends along the way.

Is Beijing or Amsterdam Better for Students?

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

Beijing is a great city to visit as a student. Students will enjoy the culture, food, and academic opportunities that the universities offer. There is also a decent nightlife scene and affordable places where students can live.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

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

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Beijing. The system can be crowded and confusing at first, but it's one of the most convenient and affordable ways to get around town. There's a subway system as well as buses, trolleybuses, and suburban rail.

Is Beijing or Amsterdam a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. However, Beijing is a city with minimal options for its walkability.

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.

Beijing is generally not a very walkable city. While parts of the city are fun to explore on foot, the city itself is very large with long blocks that aren't pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Amsterdam or Beijing?

How long in Beijing or Amsterdam?

Both Beijing and Amsterdam have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Amsterdam has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Amsterdam than Beijing. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Beijing, and 2-7 days is enough time in Amsterdam.

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

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

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

People visit Beijing because there is so much to do. 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.

In Amsterdam, you'll find nightlife and live music. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Beijing or Amsterdam?

People visit Beijing because there is so much to do. 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.

In Amsterdam, you'll find live music and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Amsterdam has to offer.

Five days in Beijing or Amsterdam?

People visit Beijing 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. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Amsterdam is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Amsterdam has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Beijing or Amsterdam?

Beijing is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Beijing, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Amsterdam. In Amsterdam, you'll find museums and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China, The Best 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Beijing and Amsterdam, we can see that Amsterdam is more expensive. And not only is Beijing much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Beijing is in Asia and Amsterdam is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Beijing would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Beijing 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 Beijing.

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

Which is Bigger, Beijing or Amsterdam?

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

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 Beijing or Amsterdam in the Summer?

Both Amsterdam and Beijing are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Beijing for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Beijing is generally much warmer than Amsterdam. Daily temperatures in Beijing average around 27°C (80°F), and Amsterdam fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

It's quite sunny in Amsterdam. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beijing. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Amsterdam during summer. Beijing gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Amsterdam receives 204 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Beijing. In July, Beijing usually receives more rain than Amsterdam. Beijing gets 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Beijing or Amsterdam in the Autumn?

Both Amsterdam and Beijing during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Beijing because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Amsterdam this time of year.

Beijing is a little warmer than Amsterdam in the autumn. The daily temperature in Beijing averages around 14°C (56°F) in October, and Amsterdam fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

It's quite sunny in Beijing. In the autumn, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Amsterdam. Beijing gets 227 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amsterdam receives 99 hours of full sun.

Beijing usually gets less rain in October than Amsterdam. Beijing gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beijing or Amsterdam in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Beijing and Amsterdam. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Beijing this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Amsterdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Amsterdam. It's quite cold in Beijing in the winter. In the winter, Beijing is much colder than Amsterdam. Typically, the winter temperatures in Beijing in January average around -4°C (26°F), and Amsterdam averages at about 2°C (36°F).

In Beijing, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Amsterdam during winter. Beijing gets 201 hours of sunny skies, while Amsterdam receives 46 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Beijing usually receives less rain than Amsterdam. Beijing gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Beijing or Amsterdam in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Beijing as well as Amsterdam. Many travelers come to Beijing for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Amsterdam in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Beijing is generally much warmer than Amsterdam. Daily temperatures in Beijing average around 14°C (57°F), and Amsterdam fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beijing this time of the year. In the spring, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Amsterdam. Beijing gets 247 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amsterdam receives 166 hours of full sun.

Beijing usually gets less rain in April than Amsterdam. Beijing gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Amsterdam and Beijing