A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lisbon vs. Amsterdam for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Music

Should you visit Lisbon or Amsterdam?

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

Should I visit Lisbon 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.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a stunning, picturesque, and colorful city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Amsterdam

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

Lisbon and Amsterdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Amsterdam?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Amsterdam than Lisbon, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Amsterdam is more touristy than Lisbon and is popular for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also home to The Rijksmuseum. Lisbon is popular for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music.

How is Lisbon different from Amsterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lisbon 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 Lisbon are among the most recognizable in the world. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

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

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Lisbon is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

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 Lisbon or Amsterdam Better for Nightlife?

The fantastic nightlife scene is relatively similar in Lisbon and Amsterdam.

The nightlife in Lisbon is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

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.

Is Lisbon or Amsterdam Better for Music?

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

Lisbon has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

Amsterdam is a world class music destination. The city attracts its share of world renowned DJs and musicians. Popular music venues include Paradiso, De Melkweg, and Chicago Social Club.

Is Lisbon or Amsterdam Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Amsterdam is not a beach destination.

Lisbon has a beach worth visiting. The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

Amsterdam is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Amsterdam Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon 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, Lisbon offers plenty to see. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of town.

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 Lisbon or Amsterdam?

Lisbon is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Amsterdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Lisbon make it a world-class shopping destination. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

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.

Is Lisbon or Amsterdam Better for Families?

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

Lisbon is a very kid-friendly city. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars. Kids of all ages will appreciate the intricate maze of streets and lively atmosphere that this city offers. There's also the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão, which is a beautiful bookshop that is said to be an inspiration for Harry Potter. Don't expect to simply walk in, as there is often a long line to enter.

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 Lisbon or Amsterdam Better for Couples?

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

Lisbon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples. There are many romantic viewpoints as well as world class restaurants that couples will enjoy.

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 Lisbon or Amsterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon and Amsterdam are both fantastic destinations for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Lisbon, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers. Prices are also reasonable for a large and vibrant city.

Amsterdam is a mecca for backpackers and 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.

Is Lisbon or Amsterdam Better for Students?

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

Lisbon is a great city to visit as a student. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find fantastic public transit in both Lisbon and Amsterdam.

Visitors in Lisbon can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

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.

Is Lisbon or Amsterdam a more walkable city?

Lisbon and Amsterdam are fantastic when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Lisbon. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

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 Lisbon Worth Visiting? and Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Amsterdam or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Amsterdam?

Both Lisbon and Amsterdam have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Lisbon has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Lisbon than Amsterdam. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lisbon, and 2-7 days is enough time in Amsterdam.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisbon 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 Lisbon.

One day in Lisbon or Amsterdam?

People visit Lisbon 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the big city destination of Amsterdam. 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 Lisbon or Amsterdam?

People visit Lisbon because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. 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 Lisbon or Amsterdam?

People visit Lisbon 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.

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 Lisbon or Amsterdam?

Lisbon 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 Lisbon, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the scenic big city of Amsterdam. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, 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 Lisbon and Amsterdam, we can see that Amsterdam is more expensive. And not only is Lisbon much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lisbon would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lisbon 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 Lisbon.

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Amsterdam?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 43% larger than the population of Lisbon. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon 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 Lisbon 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 Lisbon or Amsterdam in the Summer?

Both Amsterdam and Lisbon during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Amsterdam in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Lisbon is generally a little warmer than Amsterdam. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 23°C (73°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 Lisbon. In the summer, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Amsterdam. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amsterdam receives 204 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets less rain in July than Amsterdam. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Amsterdam in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Amsterdam. Many visitors come to Lisbon in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Amsterdam for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Lisbon is much warmer than Amsterdam in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Amsterdam fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Amsterdam during autumn. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Amsterdam receives 99 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Amsterdam. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lisbon or Amsterdam in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Amsterdam. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Amsterdam can be very cold. In the winter, Lisbon is much warmer than Amsterdam. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lisbon in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Amsterdam averages at about 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Amsterdam. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amsterdam receives 46 hours of full sun.

Lisbon receives a lot of rain in the winter. Lisbon usually gets more rain in January than Amsterdam. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Amsterdam in the Spring?

Both Amsterdam and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Amsterdam this time of year.

In April, Lisbon is generally much warmer than Amsterdam. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 16°C (60°F), and Amsterdam fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Amsterdam during spring. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Amsterdam receives 166 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Amsterdam. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Amsterdam and Lisbon