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

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

Interlaken

Interlaken is a world-class, stunning, and adventurous town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and skiing.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a historic, canal-lined, and party-oriented city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include live music, shopping, and museums.

Interlaken and Amsterdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Interlaken or Amsterdam?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Amsterdam. Although Interlaken and Amsterdam are popular destinations, Amsterdam has more sights and attractions for tourists. Amsterdam is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Interlaken attracts visitors for its skiing, food, hiking, and quaint atmosphere. Interlaken is famous for its adventure sports, alpine setting, and beautiful lakes. Amsterdam is famous for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Rijksmuseum.

How is Interlaken different from Amsterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Interlaken or Amsterdam Better for Skiing?

Interlaken is a nice place to visit for winter skiing. However, Amsterdam is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Interlaken is a great destination to visit. While the city itself has no skiing, there is access to several ski areas in Jungfrau. There are several different resorts in the area near Grindelwald, Wengen, and Mürren. You'll need to take a train or ski bus to get most places.

Amsterdam is not a skiing destination.

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

Amsterdam is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Interlaken is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Interlaken. Restaurants in the area serve local classics like fondue, local meats, cheeses, and chocolate. You can finish your meal off with strudel or head to a local bakery and try their samplings. Meals are expensive but the quality is good. You should also out into the countryside and enjoy a meal looking out over the mountains.

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 Interlaken or Amsterdam Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for nightlife. However, Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy 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.

Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Interlaken or Amsterdam Better for Music?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for live music. However, Interlaken 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.

Interlaken is not a live music destination.

Is Interlaken or Amsterdam Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town. However, Interlaken 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.

Interlaken does not have a historic old town.

Is Interlaken or Amsterdam Better for Hiking?

Interlaken is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Amsterdam is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Interlaken draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Hikes in the area range from easy to challenging with every option in between. You can experience beautiful waterfalls, breathtaking views, and dramatic ridge hikes. Several of the best hikes in the area include Schynige Platte Ridge Trail, Mt Niesen Panorama Trail, and Giessbach Waterfalls.

Amsterdam is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Interlaken or Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is an excellent place to visit for shopping. However, Interlaken 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.

Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Interlaken or Amsterdam Better for Families?

Interlaken is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Interlaken is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. While the city is beautiful, it's really the surrounding areas that you and your family will enjoy. There are amazing hikes, stunning views, playgrounds, lakes, and more. There's also an impressive ropes course that adventurous kids will love, funiculars, gondolas, and so many water sports!

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 Interlaken or Amsterdam Better for Couples?

Interlaken is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Amsterdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Interlaken has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The mountaintop views, breathtaking hikes, and beautiful lakes make this a top destination for couples. Make sure you head out of town and fully immerse yourself in everything that the area has to offer. Kayaking, canoeing, paragliding, and more will make this a trip of a lifetime.

Amsterdam is a great town if you're traveling as 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 Interlaken or Amsterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Interlaken 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Interlaken. It's a world class destination with so many activities that backpackers will love, but it's also one of the most expensive areas in one of the most expensive countries. There are hostels in town as well as a few in the nearby towns and countryside, but prices are steep. Cook when you can and enjoy all of the free activities that the area has to offer.

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

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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.

Interlaken has some very good public transit options. Buses travel around town, but to get into the mountains there are trains, cog railways, funiculars, and gondolas.

Is Interlaken or Amsterdam a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Interlaken 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.

Interlaken is a somewhat walkable place. The old town is relatively walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Amsterdam or Interlaken?

How long in Interlaken or Amsterdam?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Amsterdam than Interlaken 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 Interlaken or Amsterdam?

You'll find skiing and food around the town of Interlaken. 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.

When visiting Amsterdam, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Interlaken or Amsterdam?

You'll find food and skiing around the world-class destination of Interlaken. 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.

When visiting Amsterdam, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Interlaken or Amsterdam?

You'll find skiing and food around the adrenaline-filled town of Interlaken. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

Amsterdam, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Interlaken or Amsterdam?

Interlaken 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.

Amsterdam is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Geneva, The Best 10-Day Tours from Zurich, 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 Interlaken and Amsterdam, we can see that Interlaken 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 Interlaken would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Interlaken 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 Interlaken Expensive? and Is Amsterdam Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Interlaken or Amsterdam?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 150 times larger than the population of Interlaken. When comparing the sizes of Interlaken 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 Interlaken 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 Interlaken or Amsterdam in the Summer?

Both Amsterdam and Interlaken during the summer are popular places to visit. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Interlaken this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Amsterdam for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Interlaken is a little warmer than Amsterdam. Typically, the summer temperatures in Interlaken in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Amsterdam averages at about 17°C (62°F).

In Amsterdam, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Interlaken. In the summer, Interlaken often gets more sunshine than Amsterdam. Interlaken gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amsterdam receives 204 hours of full sun.

Interlaken usually gets more rain in July than Amsterdam. Interlaken gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Interlaken or Amsterdam in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Interlaken and Amsterdam. Many travelers come to Interlaken for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, 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.

In October, Interlaken is generally a little warmer than Amsterdam. Daily temperatures in Interlaken average around 13°C (56°F), and Amsterdam fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Interlaken usually receives more sunshine than Amsterdam during autumn. Interlaken gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Amsterdam receives 99 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Interlaken usually receives around the same amount of rain as Amsterdam. Interlaken gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Interlaken or Amsterdam in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Interlaken as well as Amsterdam. Many visitors come to Interlaken in the winter for the skiing and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Amsterdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Amsterdam can be very cold during winter. Interlaken can get quite cold in the winter. Interlaken is a little warmer than Amsterdam in the winter. The daily temperature in Interlaken averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Amsterdam fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Interlaken often gets more sunshine than Amsterdam. Interlaken gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amsterdam receives 46 hours of full sun.

Interlaken usually gets more rain in January than Amsterdam. Interlaken gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Interlaken or Amsterdam in the Spring?

Both Amsterdam and Interlaken are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Interlaken for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Interlaken is much warmer than Amsterdam. Typically, the spring temperatures in Interlaken in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Amsterdam averages at about 8°C (46°F).

Interlaken usually receives less sunshine than Amsterdam during spring. Interlaken gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Amsterdam receives 166 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Interlaken usually receives more rain than Amsterdam. Interlaken gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Amsterdam and Interlaken