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

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Should you visit Faro or Amsterdam?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Faro or Amsterdam, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Faro

Faro is a busy, active, and popular resort town. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a canal-lined, party-oriented, and laid-back 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.

Faro and Amsterdam: Pros and Cons

Faro
Pros
  • Good for couples and romance
Cons
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Amsterdam
Pros
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Cons
  • Less family-friendly


How is Faro different from Amsterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Faro or Amsterdam Better for Food?

Faro
Amsterdam

Both Faro and Amsterdam offer a number of unique restaurants to choose from.

Faro offers some easy restaurants to choose from. It has become a major tourist town, so you have to get a bit creative to find a more traditional restaurant. Look for fresh seafood like cod, monkfish, or shellfish if you want some local flavors.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Amsterdam. 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 Faro or Amsterdam Better for Nightlife?

Faro
Amsterdam

The vibe at night is comparable in Faro and Amsterdam.

Many people head to Faro for the nightlife scene. The city's bustling party scene thrives along Rua de São Pedro, Rua Conselheiro Bívar, and Rua do Prior.

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.

Is Faro or Amsterdam Better for Shopping?

Faro
Amsterdam

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Faro. The town isn't as big as some others, so it's shopping scene isn't as comprehensive, but you will find the major brands as well as souvenir shops to peruse when you need a break from the beach.

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 Faro or Amsterdam Better for Families?

Faro
Amsterdam

Neither Faro nor Amsterdam are considered to be the most family-friendly destination.

For families, Faro is not always the best place to visit. There are some nice nature reserves in the area so kids who love wildlife will enjoy a visit.

Amsterdam is not the most family-friendly destination. 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 Faro or Amsterdam Better for Couples?

Faro
Amsterdam

Faro and Amsterdam are both fun to visit as a couple.

Faro is a nice destination for couples. With the beautiful natural areas and historic old town, this seaport makes a nice couples vacation.

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 Faro or Amsterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Faro
Amsterdam

Travelers usually think of Amsterdam as a better destination for backpackers than Faro.

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.

Faro is a good resort town to visit for backpackers. The are some good hostels in the area, but it's a bit tricky to get around without a car.

Is Faro or Amsterdam Better for Public Transit?

Faro
Amsterdam

Amsterdam has better public transit to get you around.

Amsterdam has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. 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.

Faro has a few public transit options. There are buses that connect the city to the beach, the airport, and other outlying areas.

Is Faro or Amsterdam a more walkable city?

Faro
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is generally more walkable than Faro.

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.

Faro is a somewhat walkable place. The city's old town is particularly walkable.

Should I spend more time in Amsterdam or Faro?

How long in Faro or Amsterdam?

Both Faro 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 Faro.

The ideal length of time for a trip to Faro is 2-5 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Amsterdam is 2-7 days.


  • How many days in Faro or Amsterdam? Ideal Length of Stay
    Faro 2-5 
    Amsterdam 2-7

One day in Faro or Amsterdam?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the resort town of Faro. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Amsterdam is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.


A weekend in Faro or Amsterdam?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the busy destination of Faro. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this resort town has to offer. This resort town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Amsterdam is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Faro or Amsterdam?

You'll find nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling around the popular resort town of Faro. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this resort town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this resort town has to offer.

Amsterdam is a historic big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Faro or Amsterdam?

Faro is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 laid-back city where you can fill many days. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Which city is cheaper, Amsterdam or Faro?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Faro is €107, while the average daily cost in Amsterdam is €138. 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 city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Faro and Amsterdam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Faro €60
    Amsterdam €80
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Faro €120
    Amsterdam €160
Compare Hotels in Faro and Amsterdam

Looking for a hotel in Faro 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 Faro


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: Faro Hotel Prices and Amsterdam Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Faro €7.62
    Amsterdam €16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Faro

Also for Faro, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Algarve private transfer to Seville: $307
  • Algarve to/from Seville Transfer: $325
  • Arrival Transfer Faro Airport - Carvoeiro: $58
  • Arrival Transfer Faro Airport FAO to Albufeira or Açoteias by Private Vehicle: $38
  • Arrival Transfer Faro Airport FAO to Meia Praia or Lagos by Private Vehicle: $78
  • Arrival Transfer Faro Airport FAO to Vilamoura or Qta do Lago by Private Vehicle: $32
  • Chauffeur ALGARVE ALL CITIES Private Transfer to LISBON (1 to 4 passengers): $398
  • Chauffeur ALGARVE ALL CITIES Private Transfer to LISBON (1 to 8 passengers): $498
  • Chauffeur ALGARVE ALL CITIES Private Transfer to SEVILLE (1 to 4 passengers): $435
  • Chauffeur ALGARVE ALL CITIES Private Transfer to SEVILLE (5 to 8 passengers): $498
  • Faro Airport (Algarve) Arrival Transfer (Airport to Vilamoura Hotels or Address): $45
  • Faro Airport FAO Transfer to Alvor, Carvoeiro or Portimão by Private Vehicle: $64

Typical Local Transportation prices in Amsterdam

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


  • Ride on Tram
    €3.20
  • Renting a Bike
    €15
  • One Hour Canal Cruise
    €10
  • Single Day Transit Pass
    €2.60
  • Transit Pass to Amsterdam Airport
    €3.40

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Amsterdam

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Amsterdam:

  • Private Transfer from Amsterdam to Bayeux - Up to 7 people: $2,675
  • Excursion Brussels: transfer and guided tour in Brussels: $2,173
  • Amsterdam to Paris: Convenient Luxury Transfer: $1,860
  • Convenient Luxury Transfer: Amsterdam to Paris: $1,725
  • Amsterdam to Frankfurt: Convenient Luxury Transfer: $1,574
  • Convenient Luxury Transfer: Amsterdam to Frankfurt: $1,460
  • Amsterdam to Brussels: Convenient Luxury Transfer: $716
  • Convenient Luxury Transfer: Amsterdam to Brussels: $664
  • Private Transfer from Amsterdam to Berlin with 2 Sightseeing Stops: $549
  • Private Transfer from Amsterdam to Bruges: $379
  • Private Transfer form Amsterdam to Keukenhof (Roundtrip incl Tickets): $373
  • Private Transfer from Amsterdam to Brussels: $347

Is it cheaper to fly into Faro or Amsterdam?

Prices for flights to both Amsterdam and Faro 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
    Faro €29
    Amsterdam €35

Typical Food prices in Amsterdam

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


  • Afternoon Tea
    €6.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Amsterdam

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

  • Live online cooking class from Classic European 2-course meal: $23
  • Amsterdam Evening Pizza Cruise: $40
  • Three course lunch/dinner voucher: $42
  • Walking Food Tour: $43
  • 3 Course Dinner in the Dark: $48
  • Withlocals the 10 Tastings: Amsterdam's Favourite Private Food Tour with a Local: $50
  • Private Pizza Canal Cruise Amsterdam: $62
  • Dinner with an Amsterdam artist on the river: $62
  • Amsterdam Nightlife Ticket & VIP Dinner at Hard Rock Café: $63
  • Amsterdam Small Group Food Tour: $69
  • Food Tour in the Albert Cuyp Market Amsterdam: $73
  • Delicious Dutch Dinner in an Amsterdam Canalhouse: $75

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Faro €7.53
    Amsterdam €30

Tours and Activities in Faro

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Faro.

  • Horse Experience For Children: Lead Rein Riding: $3.72
  • Hop On Hop Off City Tour by Tourist Train: $6.84
  • Albufeira: MiniGolf Adventure Park Entry Ticket: $11
  • Birds and Nature Catamaran Tour from Faro: $19
  • Speed Boat Tour - Ria Formosa: $32
  • Ria Formosa National Park Boat Tour: $34
  • From 2-Island, 2-Stop Ria Formosa Catamaran Tour: $34
  • Ria Formosa Natural Park Boat Cruise from Faro: $37
  • Birdwatching Boat Tour in Ria Formosa: $38
  • Small-Group Tour in Faro Islands: $40
  • From 4 Islands, 4 Stops in Ria Formosa Catamaran Tour: $40
  • Private Speed Boat Tour: $45

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
    €6.00
  • Entry for two to the Anne Frank House
    €17

Tours and Activities in Amsterdam

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

  • 1 hour Amsterdam City Tour in Pedicab: $87
  • 1,5 hours Amsterdam Rickshaw Tour: $174
  • 1.5 Hour Walking Tour of Amsterdam’s Red Light District with a Local: $41
  • 1.5-hour Amsterdam Bubbly Bike tour: $757
  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour of the Highlights of Amsterdam: $81
  • 2 hours Amsterdam City Tour in Pedicab: $162
  • 2-Day Nightclub Admission Ticket: Best Nightlife in Amsterdam: $13
  • 2-Hour Private Anne Frank Walking Tour with Drink: $162
  • 2-Hour Private Custom Amsterdam Walking Tour With A Local Guide: $70
  • 2-Hour Semi Private All-Inclusive Cruise on our Boutique Style boats: $79
  • 2.5 hours Amsterdam Pedicab Tour: $249
  • 2.5-Hour Amsterdam Sightseeing Tour by Bike: $204

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Faro €2.50
    Amsterdam €19

Sample the Local Flavors in Faro

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Faro:

  • Traditional Portuguese Guitar performance with Exhibition Museum & Wine Tasting: $21

Sample the Local Flavors in Amsterdam

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

  • Distillery Tour & Tasting: $22
  • Amsterdam Bar Crawl: $27
  • Amsterdam Shared Bar Crawl: $31
  • Private Amsterdam Red Light District and pub tour: $61
  • Guided Craft Beer Brewery Bus Tour with Tastings: $67
  • 4 hour Amsterdam Brewery Tour: $81
  • High Class Culinary Lunch in Amsterdam - Self-Guided Food & Wine Tour: $102
  • Drew's 3-Hour Amsterdam Brewery and Bar Tour to Top Rated Bars: $106
  • Discover 3 gastronomic restaurants in Amsterdam - self-guided food & wine tour: $129
  • Experience 4 Culinary Restaurants in Amsterdam Self-Guided Food & Wine Tour: $152
  • Amsterdam Bachelor Party Bar Crawl: $488

About these numbers

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Faro and Amsterdam, we can see that Amsterdam is more expensive. And not only is Faro much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Faro would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Faro 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 Faro.


When is the best time to visit Faro 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 Faro or Amsterdam in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Faro as well as Amsterdam. The summer months attract visitors to Faro because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Amsterdam this time of year.

In the summer, Faro is much warmer than Amsterdam. Typically, the summer temperatures in Faro in July are around 25°C (78°F), and Amsterdam is about 17°C (62°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Amsterdam. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Faro this time of the year. In the summer, Faro often gets more sunshine than Amsterdam. Faro gets 374 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amsterdam receives 204 hours of full sun.

Faro usually gets less rain in July than Amsterdam. Faro gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Faro 25°C (78°F) 
    Amsterdam 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Faro or Amsterdam in the Autumn?

Both Amsterdam and Faro are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene are the main draw to Faro this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Amsterdam for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Faro is generally much warmer than Amsterdam. Temperatures in Faro average around 20°C (68°F), and Amsterdam stays around 11°C (51°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Faro. Faro usually receives more sunshine than Amsterdam during autumn. Faro gets 222 hours of sunny skies, while Amsterdam receives 99 hours of full sun in the autumn.

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


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Faro 20°C (68°F) 
    Amsterdam 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Faro or Amsterdam in the Winter?

Both Amsterdam and Faro during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Faro for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Amsterdam in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Amsterdam can get quite cold in the winter. Faro is much warmer than Amsterdam in the winter. The temperature in Faro is usually 12°C (54°F) in January, and Amsterdam stays around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Faro often gets more sunshine than Amsterdam. Faro gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amsterdam receives 46 hours of full sun.

Faro usually gets more rain in January than Amsterdam. Faro gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Faro 12°C (54°F) 
    Amsterdam 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Faro or Amsterdam in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Faro and Amsterdam. Many visitors come to Faro in the spring for the beaches. Also, most visitors come to Amsterdam for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Faro is much warmer than Amsterdam. Typically, the spring temperatures in Faro in April are around 17°C (62°F), and Amsterdam is about 8°C (46°F).

In Faro, it's very sunny this time of the year. Faro usually receives more sunshine than Amsterdam during spring. Faro gets 248 hours of sunny skies, while Amsterdam receives 166 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Faro usually receives less rain than Amsterdam. Faro gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Faro 17°C (62°F) 
    Amsterdam 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Amsterdam and Faro

Faro Amsterdam
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 12°C (54°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 13°C (56°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 15°C (58°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 17°C (62°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 19°C (67°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 22°C (72°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 25°C (78°F) 1 mm (0 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 26°C (78°F) 4 mm (0.2 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 20°C (68°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)


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Faro vs. Amsterdam Travel Comparison

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