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

Should you visit Bristol 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 Bristol 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.

Bristol

Bristol is a authentic, historic, and diverse city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

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. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Bristol and Amsterdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bristol or Amsterdam?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Amsterdam than Bristol, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Amsterdam is more popular for its nightlife, music, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Bristol is known for its food. Amsterdam is more touristy than Bristol and is popular for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also home to The Rijksmuseum. Bristol is popular for its laid-back atmosphere and progressive environmental policies.

How is Bristol different from Amsterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of high quality museums and attractions in both Amsterdam and Bristol.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Bristol. The city has some great museums and landmarks such as the SS Great Britain, M Shed, the Clifton Suspension Bridge, and Cabot Tower.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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 Bristol or Amsterdam? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bristol 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 Bristol. You'll find all of the classic British specialties such as bangers and mash or fish and chips. There are many restaurants, markets, and pubs where you can grab a relaxing meal and enjoy the British ambiance.

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 Bristol or Amsterdam Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Bristol has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The nightlife scene is diverse and inclusive. There are huge clubs that host well known DJs. There is also an underground music scene as well as local bars and even traditional speakeasies. Whether your interest is live jazz or upscale cocktail bars, there really is something for everyone.

Is Bristol or Amsterdam Better for Music?

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

Amsterdam has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city attracts its share of world renowned DJs and musicians. Popular music venues include Paradiso, De Melkweg, and Chicago Social Club.

Bristol is not a live music destination.

Is Bristol or Amsterdam Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam is great for its historic old town charm. However, Bristol 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.

Bristol does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Bristol or Amsterdam?

If you're looking to go shopping, Bristol and Amsterdam both offer plenty of high quality spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Bristol. Head to Clifton Village for the most upscale boutiques or the Bristol Shopping Quarter for a diversity of budgets and brands. Gloucester Street is famous for its independent shops or there are the student neighborhoods of Park Street and the Triangle which have a number of trendy shops.

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.

Is Bristol or Amsterdam Better for Families?

Bristol 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 Bristol. The city has a number of kid-friendly museums, activities, and playgrounds. For museums, check out the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, the M Shed, or Aerospace Bristol. There are also boat rides and the Bristol Aquarium among other unique activities.

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 Bristol or Amsterdam Better for Couples?

Amsterdam is great for couples. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

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.

Bristol is a nice destination for couples. There are romantic restaurants, fun bars, and unique museums that make for a variety of different date options.

Is Bristol or Amsterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Bristol is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

A large number of backpackers visit Amsterdam, as it is a very popular city for 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.

Bristol is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Bristol or Amsterdam Better for Students?

Bristol is a nice place to visit for students. However, Amsterdam is not popular with students.

Bristol is popular with students. It's a small and friendly city with enough diversity that it stays interesting and dynamic.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

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

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

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.

Bristol has a few public transit options. Metrobus serves the greater Bristol area.

Is Bristol or Amsterdam a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its 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.

Bristol is very walkable. The city center is well designed for walking.

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

Should I spend more time in Amsterdam or Bristol?

How long in Bristol or Amsterdam?

Both Bristol 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 Bristol. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bristol, and 2-7 days is enough time in Amsterdam.

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

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

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

Because Amsterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Bristol or Amsterdam?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Bristol. 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.

Because Amsterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Bristol or Amsterdam?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Bristol. 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.

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 Bristol or Amsterdam?

Bristol 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Amsterdam. Because Amsterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, 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 Bristol and Amsterdam, we can see that Amsterdam is more expensive. And not only is Bristol much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bristol would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bristol 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 Bristol.

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

Which is Bigger, Bristol or Amsterdam?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 72% larger than the population of Bristol. When comparing the sizes of Bristol 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 Bristol 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 Bristol or Amsterdam in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bristol as well as Amsterdam. Most visitors come to Bristol for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bristol is generally around the same temperature as Amsterdam. Daily temperatures in Bristol average around 18°C (64°F), and Amsterdam fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

Bristol usually gets less rain in July than Amsterdam. Bristol gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bristol or Amsterdam in the Autumn?

Both Amsterdam and Bristol are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Bristol because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, 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.

Bristol is a little warmer than Amsterdam in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bristol averages around 13°C (55°F) in October, and Amsterdam fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In October, Bristol usually receives more rain than Amsterdam. Bristol gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bristol or Amsterdam in the Winter?

Both Amsterdam and Bristol during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bristol this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Amsterdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Amsterdam. In the winter, Bristol is much warmer than Amsterdam. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bristol in January average around 6°C (43°F), and Amsterdam averages at about 2°C (36°F).

Bristol usually gets more rain in January than Amsterdam. Bristol gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bristol or Amsterdam in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bristol and Amsterdam. Many travelers come to Bristol for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Amsterdam in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Bristol is generally a little warmer than Amsterdam. Daily temperatures in Bristol average around 10°C (50°F), and Amsterdam fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In April, Bristol usually receives less rain than Amsterdam. Bristol gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Amsterdam and Bristol