A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Loch Lomond National Park vs. Amsterdam for Backpackers, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Loch Lomond National Park or Amsterdam?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Loch Lomond National Park and Amsterdam can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Loch Lomond National Park

Loch Lomond National Park is a scenic, serene, and peaceful national park. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a party-oriented, laid-back, and scenic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Loch Lomond National Park and Amsterdam: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
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 Loch Lomond National Park or Amsterdam?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Amsterdam. Although Loch Lomond National Park and Amsterdam are both popular with visitors, Amsterdam has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Amsterdam is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Loch Lomond National Park is known for its hiking. Amsterdam is more touristy than Loch Lomond National Park and is popular for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also home to The Rijksmuseum. Loch Lomond National Park is popular for becoming the first designated national park in Scotland in 2002.

How is Loch Lomond National Park different from Amsterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Loch Lomond National Park or Amsterdam?

Loch Lomond National Park
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a great city for its historical sights. However, Loch Lomond National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Loch Lomond National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Loch Lomond National Park or Amsterdam? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Loch Lomond National Park
Amsterdam

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Loch Lomond National Park and Amsterdam can be difficult as they are each decent in their own way.

Loch Lomond National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. You'll find some traditional Scottish food to sample but in general for the best food, head to one of the nicer hotels in the area.

Amsterdam offers some easy restaurants to choose from. 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 Loch Lomond National Park or Amsterdam Better for Nightlife?

Loch Lomond National Park
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. However, Loch Lomond National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Amsterdam has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Loch Lomond National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Loch Lomond National Park or Amsterdam Better for Music?

Loch Lomond National Park
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Loch Lomond National Park 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.

Loch Lomond National Park is not a live music destination.


Is Loch Lomond National Park or Amsterdam Better for its Old Town?

Loch Lomond National Park
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a great city for its historic old town charm. However, Loch Lomond National Park does not have a historic old 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.

Loch Lomond National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Loch Lomond National Park or Amsterdam Better for Hiking?

Loch Lomond National Park
Amsterdam

Loch Lomond National Park is a nice place to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Amsterdam is not a hiking destination.

Loch Lomond National Park has hiking trails worth exploring. You can choose from relaxing walks or more strenuous hikes and options run along the shoreline or into the surrounding hills and forests. Some of the more popular hikes in the area include Ben Lomond, Conic Hill, and Callander Crags.

Amsterdam is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Loch Lomond National Park or Amsterdam?

Loch Lomond National Park
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a great city for its shopping areas. However, Loch Lomond National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Loch Lomond National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Loch Lomond National Park or Amsterdam Better for Families?

Loch Lomond National Park
Amsterdam

Loch Lomond National Park is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Loch Lomond National Park is a very kid-friendly national park. You'll find a wide range of diverse activities for kids around the park. They can explore the maze at the Lodge Forest Visitor Center, get up close with animals at Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre, Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park, or Loch Lomond Pony Trekking, or have an adventure at Doune Castle. Other highlights for the kids include Wellsfield Farm and the Maid of the Loch Paddle Steamer.

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 Loch Lomond National Park or Amsterdam Better for Couples?

Loch Lomond National Park
Amsterdam

Both Loch Lomond National Park and Amsterdam are high quality destinations for a couple's getaway.

Loch Lomond National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. There are many waterfront accommodation options that make for a beautiful and peaceful couples retreat. The nature and serenity is perfect for couples who want to get away from it all.

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 Loch Lomond National Park or Amsterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Loch Lomond National Park
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Loch Lomond National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Loch Lomond National Park. There are some camping options available for backpackers and those who want to experience nature in its fullest.


Is Loch Lomond National Park or Amsterdam Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Loch Lomond National Park
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Loch Lomond National Park is not known for its public transit.

Public transit in Amsterdam is top-notch. 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 Loch Lomond National Park. You can reach the park by train, but transportation option within the area are generally limited.

Is Loch Lomond National Park or Amsterdam a more walkable city?

Loch Lomond National Park
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Loch Lomond National Park is not a walkable destination.

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.

Loch Lomond National Park is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Loch Lomond National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Amsterdam or Loch Lomond National Park?

How long in Loch Lomond National Park or Amsterdam?

Both Loch Lomond National Park 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 Loch Lomond National Park. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Loch Lomond National Park, and 2-7 days is enough time in Amsterdam.

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

Couples should spend more time in Amsterdam than Loch Lomond National Park. 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 Loch Lomond National Park 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 Loch Lomond National Park or Amsterdam? Ideal Length of Stay
    Loch Lomond National Park 2-4 
    Amsterdam 2-7

One day in Loch Lomond National Park or Amsterdam?

You'll find around the national park of Loch Lomond National Park. 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 scenic city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A weekend in Loch Lomond National Park or Amsterdam?

You'll find around the scenic destination of Loch Lomond National Park. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Amsterdam is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Loch Lomond National Park or Amsterdam?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the relaxing national park of Loch Lomond National Park. 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.

Amsterdam is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Visiting the old town is also a must. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

A week in Loch Lomond National Park or Amsterdam?

Loch Lomond National Park 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 popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


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


Which place is cheaper, Amsterdam or Loch Lomond National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Loch Lomond National Park is £61, while the average daily cost in Amsterdam is £149. 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 Loch Lomond National Park and Amsterdam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Loch Lomond National Park £31
    Amsterdam £87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Loch Lomond National Park £62
    Amsterdam £174
Compare Hotels in Loch Lomond National Park and Amsterdam

Looking for a hotel in Loch Lomond National Park 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 Loch Lomond National Park


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.
    Loch Lomond National Park £20
    Amsterdam £17

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Amsterdam

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


  • Ride on Tram
    £2.74
  • Renting a Bike
    £13
  • One Hour Canal Cruise
    £8.56
  • Single Day Transit Pass
    £2.22
  • Transit Pass to Amsterdam Airport
    £2.91

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Amsterdam

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Amsterdam:

  • Private Transfer to/from Bruges: $823
  • Kinderdijk & Delft Private Day Trip w/ Transfers: $802
  • Private Transfer to/from Brussels: $738
  • Private Transfer to/from Antwerp: $588
  • Private Transfer to Bruges: $385
  • Amsterdam Cruise Port: Private Transfer to The Hague hotels: $333
  • Rotterdam: Private transfer to/from Schiphol Airport: $310
  • Amsterdam and Rotterdam: 1-Way Private Transfer: $310
  • Schiphol Airport Private Transfer to Brussels: $291
  • Luxury transfer From Amsterdam Schiphol airport to Rotterdam Cruise terminal : $284
  • Private Direct Transfer from Amsterdam to Bruges: $274
  • Private Minivan transfer to Rotterdam: $273

Is it cheaper to fly into Loch Lomond National Park or Amsterdam?

Prices for flights to both Amsterdam and Loch Lomond National Park 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
    Loch Lomond National Park £15
    Amsterdam £37

Typical Food Prices in Amsterdam

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


  • Afternoon Tea
    £5.13

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Amsterdam

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

  • Food Tour Amsterdam (Tip Based): $5.45
  • Amsterdam Self-Guided Food Tour in De Pijp Neighbourhood : $8.18
  • Self-Guided Food Tour in De Pijp Neighbourhood: $13
  • Self-Guided Food Tour in De Jordaan Neighbourhood: $13
  • Self-Guided Food Tour of Amsterdam's De Jordaan District: $14
  • Exclusive Burger Dinner Cruise: $32
  • Pizza Cruise with Drinks: $40
  • Evening Canal Cruise with Pizza and Drinks: $42
  • Amsterdam Nightlife Ticket with A GOLD MENU Hard Rock Dinner: $43
  • Burger Dinner Cruise through the Amsterdam Canals: $43
  • Food Tour Jordaan District: $51
  • Food Tour Amsterdam's Jordaan District Self-Guided: $52

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Loch Lomond National Park £16
    Amsterdam £32

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
    £5.13
  • 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:

  • Amstagram Tour & Moco Experience: $53
  • Anne Frank Story & Neighborhood Walk Tour in Amsterdam: $46
  • 1 Hour Private Amsterdam Rickshaw Tour : $109
  • 1, 2 or 3-7 Days Nightclubs & Best Nightlife in Amsterdam Ticket: $14
  • 1-Hour Canal Cruise in the Evening : $22
  • 2 Hour Exclusive Canal Boat Cruise w/ Dutch snacks & Onboard Bar: $42
  • 2 Hour Exclusive Canal Cruise: Including drinks & Dutch snacks: $63
  • 2 Hours Canal Cruise to Amsterdam’s Hidden Gems: $84
  • 2 Hours Private Amsterdam Rickshaw Tour: $213
  • 2 hours Amsterdam City Tour in Pedicab: $218
  • 3 Hour Self-guided Cocktail Walking Tour in Amsterdam by WOGO: $44
  • 3 hour Amsterdam Private Guide Walking Tour with an Amsterdam born raised Guide: $186

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Loch Lomond National Park £3.93
    Amsterdam £20

Sample the Local Flavors in Amsterdam

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

  • Amsterdam Private Self-Guided Pub Crawl Pub Quiz: $21
  • Amsterdam Private Self Guided Pub Crawl: $22
  • Bar Crawl with Shots and Beer Maid Guide: $25
  • Central Pub Crawl and Nightlife Experience: $27
  • Red Light District Pub Crawl: $27
  • Distillery Tour & Tasting at Spirited Union: $27
  • Original Pub Crawl Party with VIP Entrance: $29
  • Chateau Urban Wine Tasting and optional bites: $32
  • Self-guided Red Light District Pub Crawl Mystery: $37
  • Leidseplein and Red Light Pub Crawl: 2 Night Pass: $37
  • Red Light District and Local Pub Tour: $39
  • Dutch Cheese and Wine Tasting: $42


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

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