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

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

Manchester

Manchester is a cultural, vibrant, and dynamic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and live music.

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. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and live music.

Manchester and Amsterdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Manchester or Amsterdam?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Amsterdam than Manchester. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Amsterdam is very popular for its nightlife, music, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Manchester attracts visitors for its food. Amsterdam is more touristy than Manchester and is popular for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Rijksmuseum. Manchester is famous for its strong music culture as well as being home to the world-renowned Manchester United Football Club.

How is Manchester different from Amsterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Spend time exploring the excellent sights and museums in either Manchester or Amsterdam.

Many visitors head to Manchester specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Head to the Science and Industry Museum, the Imperial War Museum North, Manchester Cathedral, or John Rylands Library & Manchester Central Library to see some of the cities most interesting sights.

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 Manchester or Amsterdam? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Manchester 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 Manchester. You'll find a great food scene with diverse restaurant options that include international flavors, vegetarian options, and more. There are also many great places to try craft beer.

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 Manchester or Amsterdam Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is very popular for nightlife. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

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.

Manchester has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The nightlife scene is diverse and high energy. Head to Deansgate or the Northern Quarter for some of the best nightlife venues. You'll also find a huge rave scene in town.

Is Manchester or Amsterdam Better for Music?

Amsterdam is very popular for live music. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its live music scene.

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.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Manchester. There's a long running music reputation here. Some of the iconic bands that began here include Oasis and Stone Roses.

Is Manchester or Amsterdam Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam is great for its historic old town. However, Manchester 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.

Manchester does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Manchester or Amsterdam?

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Manchester. From jewelry to boutique clothing outlets, there are many places to shop around town. Head to Manchester Arndale, Trafford Centre, or Market Street for some of the best shopping.

Amsterdam is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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 Manchester or Amsterdam Better for Families?

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

Manchester is a very kid-friendly city. You'll find a number of kid-friendly activities around town including the popular Legoland Discovery Center. Another fun activity is taking a behind the scenes CBBC interactive tour at MediaCityUK. Animal lovers will enjoy visiting the SeaLife Aquarium or the Chester Zoo and sports enthusiasts will not want to miss a visit to the National Football Museum or doing a tour of Old Trafford where you can also visit the Manchester United Museum.

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 Manchester or Amsterdam Better for Couples?

Both Manchester and Amsterdam are excellent destinations to visit as a couple.

Manchester is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples can enjoy a visit to a spa, a nice meal out, or simply wandering down the canal. For a unique experience, you can hit to slopes at Chill Factore.

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 Manchester or Amsterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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 Manchester. You'll find hostels around town and a number of visitors, particularly during the sports season.

Is Manchester or Amsterdam Better for Students?

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

Manchester is a great city to visit as a student. There's a large number of students as well as a great music scene and tons of festivals that make this a great city to do your studies.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

Is Manchester 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, Manchester 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.

Public transit in Manchester can get you to some places easily. The city has bus, train, and tram options for travel.

Is Manchester or Amsterdam a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is very popular for its walkability. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of 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.

Manchester is a somewhat walkable place. Some neighborhoods are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Amsterdam or Manchester?

How long in Manchester or Amsterdam?

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

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

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

People visit Manchester because there is so much to do. 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.

With museums and nightlife around the laid-back city of Amsterdam, there's plenty to do. 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 Manchester or Amsterdam?

People visit Manchester because there is so much to do. 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.

With nightlife and live music around the big city destination of Amsterdam, there's plenty to do. 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 Manchester or Amsterdam?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the diverse city of Manchester. 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, 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 Manchester or Amsterdam?

Manchester 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 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 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom, 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 Manchester and Amsterdam, we can see that Manchester 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 Manchester would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Manchester 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 Manchester Expensive? and Is Amsterdam Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Manchester or Amsterdam?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 88% larger than the population of Manchester. When comparing the sizes of Manchester 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 Manchester 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 Manchester or Amsterdam in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Manchester as well as Amsterdam. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Manchester this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Amsterdam for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Manchester is around the same temperature as Amsterdam. Typically, the summer temperatures in Manchester in July average around 16°C (62°F), and Amsterdam averages at about 17°C (62°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Amsterdam. In the summer, Manchester often gets less sunshine than Amsterdam. Manchester gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amsterdam receives 204 hours of full sun.

Manchester usually gets less rain in July than Amsterdam. Manchester gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Manchester or Amsterdam in the Autumn?

Both Amsterdam and Manchester are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Manchester for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, 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, Manchester is generally around the same temperature as Amsterdam. Daily temperatures in Manchester average around 11°C (52°F), and Amsterdam fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Manchester usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Amsterdam during autumn. Manchester gets 97 hours of sunny skies, while Amsterdam receives 99 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Manchester usually receives more rain than Amsterdam. Manchester gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Manchester or Amsterdam in the Winter?

Both Amsterdam and Manchester during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Manchester in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Amsterdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Amsterdam can be very cold during winter. Manchester can get quite cold in the winter. Manchester is much warmer than Amsterdam in the winter. The daily temperature in Manchester averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Amsterdam fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Manchester often gets more sunshine than Amsterdam. Manchester gets 53 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amsterdam receives 46 hours of full sun.

Manchester usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Amsterdam. Manchester gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Manchester or Amsterdam in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Manchester and Amsterdam. Most visitors come to Manchester for the activities around the city 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, Manchester is around the same temperature as Amsterdam. Typically, the spring temperatures in Manchester in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Amsterdam averages at about 8°C (46°F).

Manchester usually receives less sunshine than Amsterdam during spring. Manchester gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Amsterdam receives 166 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Manchester usually receives around the same amount of rain as Amsterdam. Manchester gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Amsterdam and Manchester