A Travel Price Comparison for Netherlands Leiden vs. Amsterdam for Nightlife, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

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

Leiden

Leiden is a cultural, scholarly, and historic city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Leiden travel costs.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a historic, canal-lined, and party-oriented city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Amsterdam is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the live music, shopping, and museums. See Amsterdam travel costs.

Leiden and Amsterdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Leiden or Amsterdam?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Amsterdam than Leiden, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Amsterdam is more popular for its nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Leiden is known for its food. Amsterdam is more touristy than Leiden and is popular for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also home to The Rijksmuseum. Leiden is popular for its many museums and renowned university.

How is Leiden different from Amsterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of excellent museums and attractions in both Amsterdam and Leiden.

Many visitors head to Leiden specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are a huge number of museums around town. Some are affiliated with the museum, while others are not. Some of the favorites include the National Museum of Antiquities (Rijksmuseum van Oudheden), Naturalis Biodiversity Center, The Boerhaave Museum, the Corpus Museum, and the National Ethnological Museum.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Amsterdam can be an interesting and educational experience. 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 the Food Better in Leiden or Amsterdam? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Leiden 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 Leiden. There's a diverse food scene with many international flavors such as Japanese, Chinese, and French. The cafe culture influences the culinary scene and you'll find many cozy cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a bite to eat.

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 Leiden or Amsterdam Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Amsterdam is a world class 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.

Leiden has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The large student population means that there is a good nightlife scene. There are a variety of bars, pubs, and cafes where you can enjoy a drink, with options ranging from cozy, intimate spots to larger, more vibrant venues. The Oude Markt area, with its charming historic setting, is a hotspot for nightlife, offering a mix of traditional Dutch bars and international-themed pubs.

Is Leiden or Amsterdam Better for Music?

Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for its music scene. However, Leiden is not a live music destination.

Amsterdam has become a mecca for musicians from 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.

Leiden is not a live music destination.

Is Leiden or Amsterdam Better for its Old Town?

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

Leiden does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Leiden or Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Leiden is a great destination for shopping. There are a mix of unique boutiques, international brands, and charming local stores. The Breestraat and Nieuwe Rijn are popular shopping streets, and they're lined with a variety of shops selling everything from fashion and accessories to books, art, and antiques. The city also has several markets, including a weekly Saturday market near the Pieterskerk, where you can find fresh produce, flowers, and vintage items.

Is Leiden or Amsterdam More Beautiful?

Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Leiden is not a destination known for its 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.

Leiden is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Leiden or Amsterdam Better for Families?

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

Leiden is a very kid-friendly city. The town has a mix of educational, cultural, and fun activities for all ages. There are many family-friendly museums like Naturalis Biodiversity Center, where kids can explore dinosaurs and wildlife, and the National Museum of Antiquities, which brings history to life. There's also the Corpus Museum, which takes visitors on a unique, interactive journey through the human body.

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 Leiden or Amsterdam Better for Couples?

Amsterdam is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Amsterdam makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Leiden is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy charming towns and world class museums will enjoy their time here. The town also has picturesque canals, historic bridges, and cozy street cafes. Couples can explore places like the Hortus Botanicus, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the Netherlands, or enjoy a quiet moment in the scenic Leidse Hout Park.

Is Leiden or Amsterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Amsterdam, as it is a very popular city for 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Leiden. The city offers affordable accommodations, including hostels and budget-friendly hotels, as well as reasonably priced eateries serving Dutch classics and international cuisine. Many of Leiden’s attractions, like its historic canals, charming streets, and open-air markets, can be enjoyed for free.

Is Leiden or Amsterdam Better for Students?

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

Leiden is a great city to visit as a student. It feels like a university town and it's home to Leiden University, the oldest university in the Netherlands. The university is known for its academic excellence and vibrant student community. The town also has a young atmosphere with plenty of affordable cafes, bars, and cultural events that influence the student life. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate by bike, and the abundance of libraries, study spaces, and museums provides ample resources for learning and inspiration. Housing can be difficult to find though.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

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

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

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.

You'll find some public transit in Leiden, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The Leiden Central Station is the main hub for trains, which connect the city to other towns throughout the country. Around town there are buses that are reliable and convenient.

Is Leiden or Amsterdam a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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.

Leiden is very walkable. The city is compact and easy to navigate on foot, with many of its attractions, cafes, shops, and historical sites located within walking distance of each other.

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

Should I spend more time in Amsterdam or Leiden?

How long in Leiden or Amsterdam?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Amsterdam than Leiden. 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 Leiden 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 Leiden or Amsterdam?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Leiden. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Leiden 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 Leiden or Amsterdam?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Leiden. 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 Leiden or Amsterdam?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Leiden. 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 Leiden or Amsterdam?

Leiden 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 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Netherlands, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Netherlands.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Leiden or Amsterdam?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Leiden. When comparing the sizes of Leiden 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 Leiden 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 Leiden or Amsterdam in the Summer?

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

In July, Leiden is generally around the same temperature as Amsterdam. Daily temperatures in Leiden average around 17°C (62°F), and Amsterdam fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

In Amsterdam, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Leiden. In the summer, Leiden often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Amsterdam. Leiden gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amsterdam receives 204 hours of full sun.

Leiden usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Amsterdam. Leiden gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Leiden or Amsterdam in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Leiden and Amsterdam. Many travelers come to Leiden for the shopping scene. 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.

Leiden is around the same temperature as Amsterdam in the autumn. The daily temperature in Leiden averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Amsterdam fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Leiden usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Amsterdam during autumn. Leiden gets 99 hours of sunny skies, while Amsterdam receives 99 hours of full sun in the autumn.

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

Should I visit Leiden or Amsterdam in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Leiden as well as Amsterdam. Many visitors come to Leiden in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, 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. Leiden can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Leiden is around the same temperature as Amsterdam. Typically, the winter temperatures in Leiden in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Amsterdam averages at about 2°C (36°F).

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

Leiden usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Amsterdam. Leiden gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Leiden or Amsterdam in the Spring?

Both Amsterdam and Leiden are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Leiden is generally around the same temperature as Amsterdam. Daily temperatures in Leiden average around 8°C (46°F), and Amsterdam fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Leiden usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Amsterdam during spring. Leiden gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Amsterdam receives 166 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Leiden usually receives around the same amount of rain as Amsterdam. Leiden gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Amsterdam and Leiden