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

Should you visit Birmingham or Amsterdam?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Birmingham and Amsterdam can help you decide which place is right for you.

Birmingham

Birmingham is a vibrant, fun-filled, and bustling city. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

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. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and live music.

Birmingham and Amsterdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Birmingham or Amsterdam?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Amsterdam than Birmingham. While Birmingham is larger than Amsterdam, Amsterdam has more sights and attractions for tourists. Amsterdam is very popular for its nightlife, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Birmingham attracts visitors for its theatre productions, food, and quaint atmosphere. Amsterdam is more touristy than Birmingham and is popular for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Rijksmuseum. Birmingham is famous for its strong musical routes and its very livable atmosphere.

How is Birmingham different from Amsterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Spend time exploring the excellent sights and museums in either Birmingham or Amsterdam.

Many visitors head to Birmingham specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Famous sights include the Museum & Art Gallery, Thinktank, and St. Philip's Cathedral.

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.

Is Birmingham or Amsterdam Better for Theater?

Birmingham is well known for its theatre productions. However, Amsterdam is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Birmingham. The impressive theater scene includes Broadway shows and musicals. Birmingham Hippodrome is a major theater in town.

Amsterdam is not a theatre destination.

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

Birmingham is a nice place to visit for its restaurant scene. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Birmingham. Food reviews are mixed around town. The city has its share of award-winning restaurants, but there are also popular dishes that are more of an acquired taste. Local flavors include pork scratching, Birmingham soup, and brummie bacon cakes.

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 Birmingham or Amsterdam Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. Also, Birmingham is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Amsterdam has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Birmingham has plenty to do after the sun goes down. With tons of students and young people looking to party, there is plenty to do in the evening. You'll find no shortage of pubs, clubs, and music venues around town.

Is Birmingham or Amsterdam Better for Music?

Birmingham and Amsterdam are both destinations where visitors can find terrific live music.

Birmingham is known as a music capital around the world. The city has long been a haven for musical creativity, and its influence over the global music scene is apparent. Popular music venues around town include Ghetto Golf, Digbeth Dining Club, and the Sunflower Lounge.

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.

Is Birmingham or Amsterdam Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam is great for its historic old town. However, Birmingham does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of 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.

Birmingham does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Birmingham or Amsterdam?

If you're looking to go shopping, Birmingham and Amsterdam both offer plenty of excellent spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Birmingham. The city offers everything from large department stores to smaller local shops. There are several good shopping streets around town as well as large markets and even a jewelry quarter.

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.

Is Birmingham or Amsterdam Better for Families?

Birmingham is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Birmingham is a very kid-friendly city. The city has put effort into making sure there are plenty of family-friendly activities around. You can visit a chocolate factory, explore an aquarium, enjoy an animal safari, or explore one of the hands-on museums.

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 Birmingham or Amsterdam Better for Couples?

Both Birmingham and Amsterdam are excellent destinations to visit as a couple.

Birmingham is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Romantic activities around town include taking a beautiful stroll through town, wandering around a park or garden, or seeing the ballet.

Amsterdam is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 Birmingham or Amsterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Birmingham is not a good destination for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent 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.

Birmingham is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not the most popular destination for backpackers, but there's at least one affordable hostel in town.

Is Birmingham or Amsterdam Better for Students?

Birmingham is an unbeatable place for students. However, Amsterdam is not popular with students.

Birmingham is a great destination for students. With world class academic institutions and a very diverse and international population, this is a popular place for international students to study.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

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

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Birmingham is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Public transit in Amsterdam is top-notch. 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.

Birmingham has a few public transit options. There is a reasonably comprehensive bus system.

Is Birmingham or Amsterdam a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. Also, Birmingham is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Amsterdam is a very easy city to get around on foot. The historic parts of the city are very walkable and much of the city is best explored on foot.

Birmingham is a very walkable city. Many parts of the city are very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Amsterdam or Birmingham?

How long in Birmingham or Amsterdam?

Both Birmingham and Amsterdam have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Amsterdam than in Birmingham. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Birmingham, and 2-7 days is enough time in Amsterdam.

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

Couples should spend more time in Amsterdam than Birmingham. 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 Birmingham 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 Birmingham or Amsterdam?

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

When visiting Amsterdam, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Birmingham or Amsterdam?

You'll find theater and nightlife around the historic destination of Birmingham. 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.

When visiting Amsterdam, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Birmingham or Amsterdam?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the vibrant city of Birmingham. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Most people head to the area for the live music. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Amsterdam, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Birmingham or Amsterdam?

Birmingham 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.

Amsterdam is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, The Best 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam.

When comparing the travel costs between Birmingham and Amsterdam, we can see that Amsterdam is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Birmingham or Amsterdam?

Birmingham has a larger population, and is about 33% larger than the population of Amsterdam. When comparing the sizes of Birmingham 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 Birmingham or Amsterdam?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Birmingham or Amsterdam in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Birmingham as well as Amsterdam. The music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Birmingham this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Amsterdam for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Birmingham is around the same temperature as Amsterdam. Typically, the summer temperatures in Birmingham in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Amsterdam averages at about 17°C (62°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Amsterdam. In the summer, Birmingham often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Amsterdam. Birmingham gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amsterdam receives 204 hours of full sun.

Birmingham usually gets less rain in July than Amsterdam. Birmingham gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Birmingham or Amsterdam in the Autumn?

Both Amsterdam and Birmingham are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Birmingham for the shopping scene and the music scene. Also, many visitors come to Amsterdam in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Birmingham is generally around the same temperature as Amsterdam. Daily temperatures in Birmingham average around 11°C (52°F), and Amsterdam fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Birmingham usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Amsterdam during autumn. Birmingham gets 103 hours of sunny skies, while Amsterdam receives 99 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Birmingham usually receives less rain than Amsterdam. Birmingham gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Birmingham or Amsterdam in the Winter?

Both Amsterdam and Birmingham during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Birmingham in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Amsterdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Amsterdam can be very cold during winter. Birmingham can get quite cold in the winter. Birmingham is much warmer than Amsterdam in the winter. The daily temperature in Birmingham averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Amsterdam fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Birmingham often gets more sunshine than Amsterdam. Birmingham gets 58 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amsterdam receives 46 hours of full sun.

Birmingham usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Amsterdam. Birmingham gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Birmingham or Amsterdam in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Birmingham and Amsterdam. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Birmingham is a little warmer than Amsterdam. Typically, the spring temperatures in Birmingham in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Amsterdam averages at about 8°C (46°F).

Birmingham usually receives less sunshine than Amsterdam during spring. Birmingham gets 136 hours of sunny skies, while Amsterdam receives 166 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Birmingham usually receives less rain than Amsterdam. Birmingham gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Amsterdam and Birmingham