A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lucerne vs. Amsterdam for Nightlife, Backpackers, Attractions, and Old Town

Should you visit Lucerne or Amsterdam?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Lucerne and Amsterdam. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Lucerne

Lucerne is a cultural, historic, and vibrant city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a laid-back, scenic, and historic 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.

Lucerne and Amsterdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lucerne or Amsterdam?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Amsterdam than Lucerne, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Amsterdam is more popular for its nightlife, music, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Lucerne is known for its food. Amsterdam is more touristy than Lucerne and is popular for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also home to The Rijksmuseum. Lucerne is popular for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips.

How is Lucerne different from Amsterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of great museums and attractions in both Amsterdam and Lucerne.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Lucerne. Top sights in town include the famous Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument and the town walls and towers. There are also a number of museums including the Swiss Transport Museum and Museum Sammlung Rosengart.

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.

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

Lucerne 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 Lucerne. Food is expensive around town, but there are some unique specialties like fondue, brätwurst, and of course, chocolate. It's nice to sit out by the river and enjoy a hearty meal while you soak up the view.

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 Lucerne or Amsterdam Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is very popular for its evening party scene. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Amsterdam is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Lucerne has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland, with many lively clubs, bars, and pubs. There are also many local events that are hosted in town and bring in a crowd.

Is Lucerne or Amsterdam Better for Music?

Amsterdam is very popular for its music scene. However, Lucerne 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.

Lucerne is not a live music destination.

Is Lucerne or Amsterdam Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the great old town areas in both Lucerne and Amsterdam.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Lucerne. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Lucerne or Amsterdam?

If you're looking to go shopping, Lucerne and Amsterdam both offer plenty of great spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Lucerne. The city is filled with high end shopping opportunities with everything from boutique shops to major chains. Popular items to purchase in town include chocolate, watches, jewelry, and Swiss army knives.

Amsterdam is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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 Lucerne or Amsterdam Better for Families?

Lucerne 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 Lucerne. The city is filled with history and there are a number of playgrounds around town. Also make sure you pop in a chocolate shop so that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. If the weather's warm, you can also take a swim in Lake Lucerne. Many kids enjoy escaping the city and doing a day trip to the amazing Mt. Titlis, or other peaks that are nearby.

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 Lucerne or Amsterdam Better for Couples?

Lucerne and Amsterdam both great destinations for a couple.

Lucerne is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city has many pleasant squares, excellent restaurants, and a romantic atmosphere that makes for a great couple's getaway. There are a number of nice hotels to choose from as well.

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 Lucerne or Amsterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lucerne is not a good destination 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.

Lucerne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Prices are high everywhere in the area but there are a few hostels that attract backpackers. It's also possible to find free activities like swimming in the lake or simply wandering around town. Prices at restaurants are very high, so you'll do best to pick up food at supermarkets and prepare your own meals. Because it's a larger city, there are options that you might not find in smaller towns around Switzerland.

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

Amsterdam is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Amsterdam has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere 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.

Lucerne has a few public transit options. There's a comprehensive system of buses around town.

Is Lucerne or Amsterdam a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is very popular for its ease of walking around. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

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.

Lucerne is somewhat walkable. The major tourist areas are fairly walkable if your hotel is in a convenient location.

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

Should I spend more time in Amsterdam or Lucerne?

How long in Lucerne or Amsterdam?

Both Lucerne 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 Lucerne. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Lucerne, and 2-7 days is enough time in Amsterdam.

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

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

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Lucerne. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lucerne has to offer. 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. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Lucerne or Amsterdam?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Lucerne. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Because Amsterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Amsterdam has to offer.

Five days in Lucerne or Amsterdam?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the active city of Lucerne. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Amsterdam is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Amsterdam has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Lucerne or Amsterdam?

Lucerne is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Amsterdam. Because Amsterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, The Best 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam.

When comparing the travel costs between Lucerne and Amsterdam, we can see that Lucerne 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 Lucerne Expensive? and Is Amsterdam Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lucerne or Amsterdam?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Lucerne. When comparing the sizes of Lucerne 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 Lucerne 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 Lucerne or Amsterdam in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Lucerne as well as Amsterdam. Many visitors come to Lucerne in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Amsterdam for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Lucerne is generally a little warmer than Amsterdam. Daily temperatures in Lucerne average around 21°C (70°F), and Amsterdam fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Amsterdam. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lucerne this time of the year. In the summer, Lucerne often gets more sunshine than Amsterdam. Lucerne gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amsterdam receives 204 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets more rain in July than Amsterdam. Lucerne 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 Lucerne or Amsterdam in the Autumn?

Both Amsterdam and Lucerne are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Lucerne for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Lucerne is a little warmer than Amsterdam in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lucerne averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Amsterdam fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

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

In October, Lucerne usually receives around the same amount of rain as Amsterdam. Lucerne 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 Lucerne or Amsterdam in the Winter?

Both Amsterdam and Lucerne during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Lucerne because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Amsterdam this time of year.

It's quite cold in Amsterdam in the winter. The weather in Lucerne can be very cold. In the winter, Lucerne is a little warmer than Amsterdam. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lucerne in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Amsterdam averages at about 2°C (36°F).

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

Lucerne usually gets more rain in January than Amsterdam. Lucerne 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 Lucerne or Amsterdam in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lucerne and Amsterdam. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Lucerne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Amsterdam for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Lucerne is generally much warmer than Amsterdam. Daily temperatures in Lucerne average around 12°C (53°F), and Amsterdam fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

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

In April, Lucerne usually receives more rain than Amsterdam. Lucerne 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 Lucerne