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

Should you visit Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh 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.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a gothic, ancient, and charming city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a party-oriented, laid-back, and scenic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the live music, shopping, and museums.

Edinburgh and Amsterdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Edinburgh or Amsterdam?

You'll generally find more things to do in Amsterdam than Edinburgh. Amsterdam is bigger than Edinburgh, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Amsterdam is better known for its nightlife, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Edinburgh is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere. Edinburgh is well known for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. Amsterdam is well known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. Also, Amsterdam is famous for The Rijksmuseum.

How is Edinburgh different from Amsterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh are among the most recognizable in the world. The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.

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 Edinburgh or Amsterdam Better for Theater?

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

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Edinburgh. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Amsterdam is not a theatre destination.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Edinburgh and Amsterdam.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Edinburgh. The city has some unique but famous dishes to try including haggis and black pudding. For slightly less intimidating options, check out the cullen skink, porridge, or smoked salmon. There are many fish and chips shops to choose from as well as a diversity of ethnic restaurants including Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian.

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 Edinburgh or Amsterdam Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Amsterdam is a must-see party destination. 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.

Edinburgh is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.

Is Edinburgh or Amsterdam Better for Music?

It can be fun to see live music in either Edinburgh and Amsterdam.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Edinburgh. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

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.

Is Edinburgh or Amsterdam Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh is an unbeatable place for its old town. Also, Amsterdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

With a famous historical old-town, Edinburgh offers plenty to see. The city's Old Town attracts international visitors who come to see the Edinburgh Castle, the quaint streets, and the many shops and cafes. The Royal Mile is a popular area with pubs and souvenir shops. It connects the castle to the Scottish Parliament.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Edinburgh or Amsterdam?

Shoppers can find a variety of high quality stores in both Edinburgh and Amsterdam.

Edinburgh is well-known for its shopping. Head to Princes Street in the New Town to visit department stores and other name brand shops. Nearby George Street has more boutique style shops and less crowds. In the Old Town, Victoria Street is filled with Harry Potter shops and tourist stores where you can pick up a kilt or Edinburgh sweatshirt.

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.

Is Edinburgh or Amsterdam Better for Families?

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

Edinburgh is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will enjoy wandering down Victoria Street and popping in the Harry Potter shops. There are also a number of fascinating Harry Potter tours that take you through notable landmarks where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write these popular stories. You'll even visit Tom Riddle's gravesite. Other highlights that families will enjoy include Edinburgh Castle and the Edinburgh Dungeon, which is best for older kids or kids that enjoy a good scare. Younger kids will enjoy a trip the illusions museum, Camera Obscura, which also offers one of the best views of the city.

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 Edinburgh or Amsterdam Better for Couples?

Both Edinburgh and Amsterdam are high quality destinations for a couple's getaway.

Edinburgh makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With its castle and the Royal Mile, there are many romantic places to explore as a couple. There are also good restaurants and some nice hotels. Whether you're interested in history, food, or fun, this city makes for a great couples trip.

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.

Is Edinburgh or Amsterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh and Amsterdam are both first-rate destinations for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Edinburgh is extremely popular for backpackers. The city has some good hostels and an active nightlife, so it's not hard to find other travelers to hang out with. It's a well visited city with many areas that attracted younger travelers or students.

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.

Is Edinburgh or Amsterdam Better for Students?

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

Edinburgh is a great city to visit as a student. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

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

Amsterdam is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Amsterdam can take you anywhere. 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.

You'll find some public transit in Edinburgh, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

Is Edinburgh or Amsterdam a more walkable city?

Edinburgh and Amsterdam are first-rate when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Edinburgh. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk around

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Amsterdam or Edinburgh?

How long in Edinburgh or Amsterdam?

Both Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Edinburgh, and 2-7 days is enough time in Amsterdam.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Edinburgh than Amsterdam 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 Edinburgh.

One day in Edinburgh or Amsterdam?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the quaint city of Edinburgh. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

People visit Amsterdam because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

A weekend in Edinburgh or Amsterdam?

You'll find live music and shopping around the charming destination of Edinburgh. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

People visit Amsterdam because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Five days in Edinburgh or Amsterdam?

You'll find shopping and museums around the charming city of Edinburgh. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

People visit Amsterdam 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. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Edinburgh or Amsterdam?

Edinburgh is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Amsterdam, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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

When comparing the travel costs between Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh Expensive? and Is Amsterdam Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Edinburgh or Amsterdam?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 70% larger than the population of Edinburgh. When comparing the sizes of Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh or Amsterdam in the Summer?

Both Amsterdam and Edinburgh during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Edinburgh for the city activities, the music scene, 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.

Edinburgh is cooler than Amsterdam in the summer. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 14°C (58°F) in July, and Amsterdam fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

In Amsterdam, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Amsterdam. Edinburgh gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amsterdam receives 204 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets less rain in July than Amsterdam. Edinburgh gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Amsterdam in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Edinburgh and Amsterdam. The autumn months attract visitors to Edinburgh because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. 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.

In the autumn, Edinburgh is cooler than Amsterdam. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Edinburgh in October average around 10°C (49°F), and Amsterdam averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Amsterdam during autumn. Edinburgh gets 90 hours of sunny skies, while Amsterdam receives 99 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Edinburgh usually receives around the same amount of rain as Amsterdam. Edinburgh gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Amsterdam in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Edinburgh as well as Amsterdam. The museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Edinburgh 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. It's quite cold in Edinburgh in the winter. In January, Edinburgh is generally much warmer than Amsterdam. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 3°C (38°F), and Amsterdam fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Edinburgh often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Amsterdam. Edinburgh gets 48 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amsterdam receives 46 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets less rain in January than Amsterdam. Edinburgh gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Amsterdam in the Spring?

Both Amsterdam and Edinburgh are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Edinburgh for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Amsterdam in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Edinburgh is around the same temperature as Amsterdam in the spring. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Amsterdam fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Amsterdam during spring. Edinburgh gets 132 hours of sunny skies, while Amsterdam receives 166 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Edinburgh usually receives less rain than Amsterdam. Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh