A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Inner Hebrides vs. Amsterdam for Backpackers, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Inner Hebrides or Amsterdam?

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

Should I visit Inner Hebrides 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.

Inner Hebrides

Inner Hebrides is a peaceful, tranquil, and stunning islands. The beauty of Inner Hebrides is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and food. See Inner Hebrides travel costs.

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. Amsterdam is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include live music, shopping, and museums. See Amsterdam travel costs.

Inner Hebrides and Amsterdam: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • 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 Inner Hebrides or Amsterdam?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Amsterdam. Although Inner Hebrides and Amsterdam are popular destinations, Amsterdam has more sights and attractions for tourists. Amsterdam is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Inner Hebrides attracts visitors for its food, beaches, and hiking. Amsterdam is more touristy than Inner Hebrides and is popular for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Rijksmuseum. Inner Hebrides is famous for its rugged landscape, beautiful coastline, and local whisky.

How is Inner Hebrides different from Amsterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Inner Hebrides or Amsterdam?

Inner Hebrides
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Inner Hebrides does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Inner Hebrides does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Inner Hebrides
Amsterdam

Inner Hebrides 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 Inner Hebrides. It wasn't long ago that there was a limited selection of restaurants on the islands, but these days you shouldn't have much trouble finding some Scottish classics. The area continues to grow its restaurant scene, which highlights regional ingredients and the local whisky distilleries.

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 Inner Hebrides or Amsterdam Better for Nightlife?

Inner Hebrides
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for nightlife. However, Inner Hebrides is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Inner Hebrides. People don't come here to be surrounded by crowds, so you won't find much nightlife in the area.

Is Inner Hebrides or Amsterdam Better for Music?

Inner Hebrides
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for live music. However, Inner Hebrides is not a live music destination.

Amsterdam is known as a music capital 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.

Inner Hebrides is not a live music destination.


Is Inner Hebrides or Amsterdam Better for Beaches?

Inner Hebrides
Amsterdam

Inner Hebrides is well known for the beach. However, Amsterdam is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Inner Hebrides. The islands offer a truly unexpected sight, with white sand beaches and blue waters. Some of the best beaches to visit include Calgary Beach on the Isle of Mull, Machir Bay on the Isle of Islay, and Coral Beach on the Isle of Skye.

Amsterdam is not a beach destination.

Is Inner Hebrides or Amsterdam Better for its Old Town?

Inner Hebrides
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a very popular place for its historic old town. However, Inner Hebrides 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.

Inner Hebrides does not have a historic old town.

Is Inner Hebrides or Amsterdam Better for Hiking?

Inner Hebrides
Amsterdam

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

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Inner Hebrides. To fully experience the area's natural beauty, you really should go on a few hikes. The hikes are varied in landscape, length, and skill level. Some of the favorites include Beinn an Òir, Coire Dubh, and Ben More.

Amsterdam is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Inner Hebrides or Amsterdam?

Inner Hebrides
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a very popular place for shopping. However, Inner Hebrides is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Inner Hebrides is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Inner Hebrides or Amsterdam More Beautiful?

Inner Hebrides
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Inner Hebrides is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Amsterdam is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. With its beautiful canals, historic churches, and relaxing parks, this is a beautiful city.

The beauty of Inner Hebrides is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The sandy coastline and dramatic natural features all make this a beautiful region to explore.

Is Inner Hebrides or Amsterdam Better for Families?

Inner Hebrides
Amsterdam

Inner Hebrides 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 Inner Hebrides. Beaches, wildlife spotting, and boat tours all make for a fun adventure for the whole family. These islands offer a unique and truly rewarding experience that is fun for everyone.

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 Inner Hebrides or Amsterdam Better for Couples?

Inner Hebrides
Amsterdam

With fun activities for couples, both Inner Hebrides and Amsterdam make for a very good place to visit.

Inner Hebrides makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who want to move at a slower pace and soak up natural beauty will appreciate these islands. There are sandy beaches, welcoming communities, and spectacular views that offer both romance and a little adventure.

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 Inner Hebrides or Amsterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Inner Hebrides
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Inner Hebrides is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

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.

Inner Hebrides is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The islands have some campsites that let you fully enjoy the area's stunning natural beauty.

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

Inner Hebrides
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. However, Inner Hebrides is lacking in good options 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.

Public transit is generally limited in Inner Hebrides. Ferries and some local buses are available. It's also possible to find there-and-back day cruises to the islands.


Is Inner Hebrides or Amsterdam a more walkable city?

Inner Hebrides
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Inner Hebrides is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Amsterdam. The historic parts of the city are very walkable and much of the city is best explored on foot.

Inner Hebrides is a somewhat walkable place. There are some islands that are small enough to wander around on foot. There are also some islands, like Iona, that are car free.

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

Should I spend more time in Amsterdam or Inner Hebrides?

How long in Inner Hebrides or Amsterdam?

Both Inner Hebrides 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 Inner Hebrides. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Inner Hebrides, and 2-7 days is enough time in Amsterdam.

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

Couples should spend more time in Amsterdam than Inner Hebrides. 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 Inner Hebrides 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 Inner Hebrides or Amsterdam? Ideal Length of Stay
    Inner Hebrides 3-5 
    Amsterdam 2-7

One day in Inner Hebrides or Amsterdam?

You'll find food around the islands of Inner Hebrides. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

Because Amsterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Visiting the old town is also a must. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Inner Hebrides or Amsterdam?

You'll find food around the stunning destination of Inner Hebrides. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This islands offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Amsterdam is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.


Five days in Inner Hebrides or Amsterdam?

You'll find food around the tranquil islands of Inner Hebrides. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this islands makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this islands has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Amsterdam. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Inner Hebrides or Amsterdam?

Inner Hebrides is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Because Amsterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 2-Week Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam.


Which place is cheaper, Amsterdam or Inner Hebrides?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Inner Hebrides Prices
    UK Prices
    Amsterdam Prices
    Netherlands Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Inner Hebrides £165
    Amsterdam £182

The average daily cost (per person) in Inner Hebrides is £165, while the average daily cost in Amsterdam is £182. 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 Inner Hebrides and Amsterdam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Inner Hebrides £67
    Amsterdam £88
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Inner Hebrides £134
    Amsterdam £176
Compare Hotels in Inner Hebrides and Amsterdam

Looking for a hotel in Inner Hebrides 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 Inner Hebrides


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: Amsterdam Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Inner Hebrides £76
    Amsterdam £17

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Amsterdam

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


  • Ride on Tram
    £2.77
  • Renting a Bike
    £13
  • One Hour Canal Cruise
    £8.65
  • Single Day Transit Pass
    £2.25
  • Transit Pass to Amsterdam Airport
    £2.94

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Amsterdam

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Amsterdam:

  • VIP Transfer from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam City or Back to the Airport: $100
  • Transfer: Amsterdam City Center to Airport Schiphol (AMS): $40
  • Transfer from cruise port in Amsterdam to a hotel in Amsterdam: $77
  • Transfer from a hotel in Amsterdam to cruise port in Amsterdam: $74
  • Taxi minibus Transfer cruise port Amsterdam to Airport Amsterdam: $165
  • Taxi minibus Transfer Amsterdam Hotel to cruise port Amsterdam: $130
  • Schiphol to Amsterdam VIP Transfer | Meet & Greet Taxi: $177
  • Schiphol airport to the cruise terminal IJmuiden. Private transfer.: $93
  • Schiphol Amsterdam Airport Private Arrival Transfer: $77
  • Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam | Private Luxury Transfer: $112
  • Schiphol Airport Taxi Transfer | Amsterdam: $295
  • Schiphol Airport Private Transfer by Van – Meet & Greet Included: $162

Is it cheaper to fly into Inner Hebrides or Amsterdam?

Prices for flights to both Amsterdam and Inner Hebrides 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
    Inner Hebrides £54
    Amsterdam £69

Typical Food Prices in Amsterdam

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


  • Afternoon Tea
    £5.19

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Amsterdam

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

  • Romantic Dinner in the Dark Amsterdam: $50
  • Self Guided Food Tour in De Pijp District of Amsterdam: $59
  • Amsterdam Nightlife Ticket & VIP Dinner at Hard Rock Café: $60
  • Taste Your Way Around Amsterdam Food Tour: $60
  • 3-course dinner party at a secret pop-up restaurant: $71
  • Amsterdam : Guided Cultural Food Tour: $83
  • Amsterdam Food Tour: +10 Tastes, Culture and Canals with Sherpa: $88
  • Top 10 Tastes of Guided Walking Food Tour: $91
  • 10 Tastes of Food Tour by UNESCO Canals and Jordaan: $105
  • Jordaan Food Tour: Special 10 Year Anniversary Edition: $107
  • Private Dutch Pancake Cooking Class in an Amsterdam Canal Home: $109
  • Private Amsterdam Red Light District and Food Tour (TOP RATED): $120

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Inner Hebrides £22
    Amsterdam £31

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
    £5.19
  • 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:

  • 1 Hour Iconic Canal Belt Cruise: $62
  • 1 Hour Private Amsterdam Rickshaw Tour: $118
  • 1 hour Amsterdam City Tour in Pedicab: $118
  • 1,5 hours Amsterdam Rickshaw Tour: $177
  • 2 Hours Amsterdam Private Walking Tour: $136
  • 2 hour food tasting Tour in Amsterdam Group Tour: $106
  • 2 hours Amsterdam City Tour in Pedicab: $236
  • 2-hour Red Light District and Old Town Walking Tour in Amsterdam: $52
  • 2.5 hours Amsterdam Pedicab Tour: $283
  • 420 Official Smoking Boat Tour in Amsterdam: $24
  • 4Hrs with a Local in Full Private & Personalized Tour.: $283
  • 75 minute Blue Boat Company City Canal Cruise and Maritime Museum: $47

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Inner Hebrides £7.71
    Amsterdam £21

Sample the Local Flavors in Amsterdam

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

  • Original Amsterdam Pub Crawl: $28
  • Amsterdam Craft Beer Brewery Tour by Bus with Tastings: $77
  • Halloween Bar Crawl in Central Amsterdam: $100
  • Private Amsterdam Red Light District and Pub Tour including drink: $103
  • Dutch Wine Tasting Experience: $140


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