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

Should you visit Dover 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 Dover and Amsterdam can help you decide which place is right for you.

Dover

Dover is a iconic, rustic, and stunning town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and food.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a historic, canal-lined, and party-oriented city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, live music, and shopping.

Dover and Amsterdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dover or Amsterdam?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Amsterdam. Although Dover and Amsterdam are both popular with visitors, Amsterdam has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Amsterdam is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Dover is known for its food and hiking. Amsterdam is more touristy than Dover and is known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also home to The Rijksmuseum. Dover is popular for the famous White Cliffs of Dover as well as the ferry connection to mainland Europe.

How is Dover different from Amsterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Amsterdam is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Amsterdam specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Dover is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Aside from the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, there is the Dover Castle, the South Foreland Lighthouse, and the Grand Shaft.

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

Dover 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 Dover. The town has a growing food scene that includes waterfront restaurants and local dishes. Find a restaurant with a view to make sure you take full advantage of the setting.

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 Dover or Amsterdam Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. However, Dover is not a good town for nightlife.

People head to Amsterdam just to party. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Dover. The nightlife has a relaxed atmosphere with wine bars and microbreweries.

Is Dover or Amsterdam Better for Music?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Dover 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.

Dover is not a live music destination.

Is Dover or Amsterdam Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam is a well-known place for its historic old town charm. However, Dover 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.

Dover does not have a historic old town.

Is Dover or Amsterdam Better for Hiking?

Dover is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Amsterdam is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Dover. There are many beautiful countryside walks that take you through the rolling hills and along the iconic white cliffs. Some of the best hikes in the area include The England Coast Path, The North Downs Way Saxon Shore Way.

Amsterdam is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dover or Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is a well-known place for its shopping areas. However, Dover is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in 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.

Dover is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Dover or Amsterdam Better for Families?

Dover 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 Dover. There are a few kid-friendly museums like the Dover Transport Museum and the Dover Castle. Also make sure you check out the South Foreland Lighthouse.

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 Dover or Amsterdam Better for Couples?

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

Dover is a very popular place to visit for couples. The White Cliffs of Dover are an iconic sight and perfect for a romantic trip away. Also make sure you check out St. Margaret's Bay Beach and the Kearsney Abbey Gardens.

Amsterdam makes for a fun place to visit for 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 Dover or Amsterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Dover. You'll find several nice hostels to choose from in the town.

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

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Dover is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Amsterdam can get you around easily. 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Dover. There are public buses through the district.

Is Dover or Amsterdam a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its 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.

Dover is somewhat walkable. You can wander around the countryside, but prepare for rolling hills and great views.

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

Should I spend more time in Amsterdam or Dover?

How long in Dover or Amsterdam?

Both Dover 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 Dover. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Dover, and 2-7 days is enough time in Amsterdam.

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

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

You'll find food and museums around the town of Dover. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.

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.

A weekend in Dover or Amsterdam?

You'll find museums and food around the breathtaking destination of Dover. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

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.

Five days in Dover or Amsterdam?

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the breathtaking town of Dover. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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.

A week in Dover or Amsterdam?

Dover is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Bicycle 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 Dover and Amsterdam, we can see that Amsterdam is more expensive. And not only is Dover much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Dover would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Dover 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 Dover.

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

Which is Bigger, Dover or Amsterdam?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Dover. When comparing the sizes of Dover 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 Dover 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 Dover or Amsterdam in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Dover and Amsterdam. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Dover this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Amsterdam for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Dover is generally around the same temperature as Amsterdam. Daily temperatures in Dover average around 17°C (63°F), and Amsterdam fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Amsterdam this time of the year. In Dover, it's very sunny this time of the year. Dover usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Amsterdam during summer. Dover gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Amsterdam receives 204 hours of full sun in the summer.

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

Should I visit Dover or Amsterdam in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Dover as well as Amsterdam. Many travelers come to Dover for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. 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.

Dover is a little warmer than Amsterdam in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dover averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Amsterdam fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Dover often gets more sunshine than Amsterdam. Dover gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amsterdam receives 99 hours of full sun.

Dover usually gets less rain in October than Amsterdam. Dover gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dover or Amsterdam in the Winter?

Both Amsterdam and Dover are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Dover in the winter for the museums 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. Dover can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Dover is much warmer than Amsterdam. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dover in January average around 4°C (40°F), and Amsterdam averages at about 2°C (36°F).

Dover usually receives more sunshine than Amsterdam during winter. Dover gets 57 hours of sunny skies, while Amsterdam receives 46 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Dover usually receives less rain than Amsterdam. Dover gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Dover or Amsterdam in the Spring?

Both Amsterdam and Dover during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Dover for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Dover is generally a little warmer than Amsterdam. Daily temperatures in Dover average around 9°C (47°F), and Amsterdam fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, Dover often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Amsterdam. Dover gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amsterdam receives 166 hours of full sun.

Dover usually gets less rain in April than Amsterdam. Dover gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Amsterdam and Dover