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

Should you visit Dundee or Amsterdam?

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

Should I visit Dundee or Amsterdam? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Dundee

Dundee is a cultural, historic, and coastal city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food, museums, and nightlife.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a scenic, historic, and canal-lined city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and shopping.

Dundee and Amsterdam: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Rijksmuseum
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Dundee or Amsterdam?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Amsterdam than Dundee. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Amsterdam is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Dundee attracts visitors for its food. Amsterdam is more touristy than Dundee and is known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Rijksmuseum. Dundee is famous for its maritime and manufacturing history as well as its focus on design.

How is Dundee different from Amsterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Dundee
Amsterdam

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

Amsterdam offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Dundee offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. On the waterfront you'll find a couple of nautical museums such as RRS Discovery, and HM Frigate Unicorn. Other museums and sights include V&A Dundee, Tay Rail Bridge, Camperdown Wildlife Centre, and Glamis Castle.


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

Dundee
Amsterdam

Dundee 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 Dundee. There are a few local dishes that the city is known for. These include Dundee Cake, Dundee marmalade, and Angus beef.

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 Dundee or Amsterdam Better for Nightlife?

Dundee
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. Also, Dundee is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Dundee. The vibrant student population heavily influences the city's nightlife. There are a number of clubs and bars where you can hang out late into the night.

Is Dundee or Amsterdam Better for Music?

Dundee
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for live music. However, Dundee is not a live music destination.

Amsterdam is a world class music destination. The city attracts its share of world renowned DJs and musicians. Popular music venues include Paradiso, De Melkweg, and Chicago Social Club.

Dundee is not a live music destination.


Is Dundee or Amsterdam Better for its Old Town?

Dundee
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Dundee does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Dundee does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Dundee or Amsterdam?

Dundee
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a well-known place for shopping. However, Dundee is not a good city for its shopping opportunities.

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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Dundee has some nice offerings. There are shopping centers and a few independent shops that are worth checking out. Head to Overgate Shopping Centre for the standard brands or Dundee's Farmer's Market for some local produce.

Is Dundee or Amsterdam Better for Families?

Dundee
Amsterdam

Dundee 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 Dundee. Head to the Dundee Science Center or check out Discovery Point. There's also the Dundee Treasure Trail as well as climbing walls and other outdoor activities for when the weather's nice.

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 Dundee or Amsterdam Better for Couples?

Dundee
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a well-known place for romance. However, Dundee is not a good city for its romantic activities.

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.

Most people don't think of Dundee as a couple's destination. The coastal city has some nice outdoor spaces and interesting restaurants that couples can enjoy.

Is Dundee or Amsterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dundee
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. However, Dundee is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Amsterdam is a mecca for backpackers and 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.

Dundee is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Dundee or Amsterdam Better for Students?

Dundee
Amsterdam

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

Dundee is popular with students. Its affordability and authenticity make this a nice option for students. It's also a very safe city.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.


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

Dundee
Amsterdam

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

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.

Dundee has some public transit options. The city has a public bus system.

Is Dundee or Amsterdam a more walkable city?

Dundee
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. Also, Dundee is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of 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.

Dundee is a somewhat walkable place. There are a number of walks through the town.

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

Should I spend more time in Amsterdam or Dundee?

How long in Dundee or Amsterdam?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Amsterdam than Dundee. 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 Dundee 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.


  • How many days in Dundee or Amsterdam? Ideal Length of Stay
    Dundee 1-2 
    Amsterdam 2-7

One day in Dundee or Amsterdam?

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

Amsterdam is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Dundee or Amsterdam?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Dundee. 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.

Amsterdam 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 Dundee or Amsterdam?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic city of Dundee. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Amsterdam. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Dundee or Amsterdam?

Dundee 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 bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from London, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam.


Which place is cheaper, Amsterdam or Dundee?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Dundee is £234, while the average daily cost in Amsterdam is £149. 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 Dundee and Amsterdam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Dundee £149
    Amsterdam £87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Dundee £298
    Amsterdam £174
Compare Hotels in Dundee and Amsterdam

Looking for a hotel in Dundee or Amsterdam? 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 Dundee


Hotels in Amsterdam


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: Dundee Hotel Prices and Amsterdam Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Dundee £16
    Amsterdam £17

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Amsterdam

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Amsterdam:


  • Ride on Tram
    £2.74
  • Renting a Bike
    £13
  • One Hour Canal Cruise
    £8.56
  • Single Day Transit Pass
    £2.22
  • Transit Pass to Amsterdam Airport
    £2.91

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Amsterdam

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Amsterdam:

  • Train transfer From/To Zaandijk Zaanse Schans: $5.03
  • Train Transfer Schiphol Airport from/to Amsterdam: $6.31
  • Airport Express Bus Transfer to/from City Center: $6.95
  • 1-Way Train Transfer to/from Haarlem: $7.38
  • Train Transfer From/To Zandvoort in Amsterdam: $8.02
  • Train Transfer Amsterdam from/to Utrecht: $12
  • Train Transfer Amsterdam from/to Leiden: $13
  • Travel Ticket for 1-3 Days With Airport Transfer: $19
  • Train Transfer Amsterdam from/to Rotterdam: $21
  • Train Transfer Schiphol Airport from/to Eindhoven: $26
  • Eindhoven: Train Transfer Eindhoven from/to Amsterdam: $26
  • From Bus Transfer to Flower Fields Keukenhof: $27

Is it cheaper to fly into Dundee or Amsterdam?

Prices for flights to both Amsterdam and Dundee 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
    Dundee £47
    Amsterdam £37
Typical Food Prices in Dundee

Some typical examples of dining costs in Dundee are as follows:


  • Moroccan Sandwich
    £2.70
  • Drinks and Scottish Shortbread at Discovery
    £4.70
  • Kebabs (for 2)
    £8.80

Typical Food Prices in Amsterdam

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Amsterdam:


  • Afternoon Tea
    £5.13

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Amsterdam

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Amsterdam.

  • Food Tour Amsterdam (Tip Based): $5.45
  • Amsterdam Self-Guided Food Tour in De Pijp Neighbourhood : $8.18
  • Self-Guided Food Tour in De Pijp Neighbourhood: $13
  • Self-Guided Food Tour in De Jordaan Neighbourhood: $13
  • Self-Guided Food Tour of Amsterdam's De Jordaan District: $14
  • Exclusive Burger Dinner Cruise: $32
  • Pizza Cruise with Drinks: $40
  • Evening Canal Cruise with Pizza and Drinks: $42
  • Amsterdam Nightlife Ticket with A GOLD MENU Hard Rock Dinner: $43
  • Burger Dinner Cruise through the Amsterdam Canals: $43
  • Food Tour Jordaan District: $51
  • Food Tour Amsterdam's Jordaan District Self-Guided: $52

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Dundee £106
    Amsterdam £32
Typical Entertainment Prices in Dundee

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Dundee are as follows:


  • Newspaper
    £0.85

Tours and Activities in Dundee

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Dundee are as follows:

  • Skip-the-Line: Botanic Garden Entry Ticket: $6.36
  • Made in A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $6.99
  • Dundee Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Boat Seafari Adventure: $34
  • Original Dundee Photoshoot Tour: $82

Typical Entertainment Prices in Amsterdam

Here are a few typical costs in Amsterdam for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Two tickets to the Houseboat Museum
    £5.13
  • Entry for two to the Anne Frank House
    £15

Tours and Activities in Amsterdam

Here are a few actual costs in Amsterdam for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Golden Age Canals Walking Tour: $1.07
  • Free walking tour of haunted Amsterdam: $1.07
  • Red Light District Haunted History Night Tour: $1.70
  • Two-hour walking tour of Amsterdam: $2.61
  • City Exploration Game and Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Rude Bastards Tour of Amsterdam: $3.21
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Best of Amsterdam City Tour: $3.21
  • Amsterdam Spanish Tour 2 Hours: $3.26
  • Alternative tour Amsterdam (Tip-Based): $3.26
  • Free Walking Tour of Haunted Amsterdam: $3.27
  • Rude Bastards Tour of Amsterdam (CYHIT): $3.27

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Dundee £13
    Amsterdam £20

Sample the Local Flavors in Amsterdam

Also in Amsterdam, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Amsterdam Private Self-Guided Pub Crawl Pub Quiz: $21
  • Amsterdam Private Self Guided Pub Crawl: $22
  • Bar Crawl with Shots and Beer Maid Guide: $25
  • Central Pub Crawl and Nightlife Experience: $27
  • Red Light District Pub Crawl: $27
  • Distillery Tour & Tasting at Spirited Union: $27
  • Original Pub Crawl Party with VIP Entrance: $29
  • Chateau Urban Wine Tasting and optional bites: $32
  • Self-guided Red Light District Pub Crawl Mystery: $37
  • Leidseplein and Red Light Pub Crawl: 2 Night Pass: $37
  • Red Light District and Local Pub Tour: $39
  • Dutch Cheese and Wine Tasting: $42


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

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


Which is Bigger, Dundee or Amsterdam?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Dundee. When comparing the sizes of Dundee 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 Dundee 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 Dundee or Amsterdam in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Dundee is cooler than Amsterdam. Typically, the summer temperatures in Dundee in July average around 14°C (58°F), and Amsterdam averages at about 17°C (62°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Amsterdam this time of the year. Dundee usually receives less sunshine than Amsterdam during summer. Dundee gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Amsterdam receives 204 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Dundee usually receives less rain than Amsterdam. Dundee gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Dundee 14°C (58°F) 
    Amsterdam 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Dundee or Amsterdam in the Autumn?

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

In October, Dundee is generally cooler than Amsterdam. Daily temperatures in Dundee average around 10°C (49°F), and Amsterdam fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Dundee often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Amsterdam. Dundee gets 100 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amsterdam receives 99 hours of full sun.

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


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Dundee 10°C (49°F) 
    Amsterdam 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Dundee or Amsterdam in the Winter?

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

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

Dundee usually receives more sunshine than Amsterdam during winter. Dundee gets 58 hours of sunny skies, while Amsterdam receives 46 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Dundee usually receives around the same amount of rain as Amsterdam. Dundee gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Dundee 3°C (38°F) 
    Amsterdam 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Dundee or Amsterdam in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Dundee is around the same temperature as Amsterdam. Typically, the spring temperatures in Dundee in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Amsterdam averages at about 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, Dundee often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Amsterdam. Dundee gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amsterdam receives 166 hours of full sun.

Dundee usually gets less rain in April than Amsterdam. Dundee gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Dundee 7°C (45°F) 
    Amsterdam 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Amsterdam and Dundee

Dundee Amsterdam
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 10°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 50 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 14°C (58°F) 52 mm (2 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 14°C (58°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)