Which place is cheaper, Amsterdam or Marrakech?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
Jump to 
Should you visit Marrakech or Amsterdam?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
Should I visit Marrakech 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.
Marrakech
Marrakech is a high-energy, fascinating, and ancient city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. 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 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.
Marrakech and Amsterdam: Pros and Cons
Marrakech
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Popular for food and cuisine
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Big city activities
- Impressive beauty
- Home to Jemaa el-Fnaa Square
- Less popular for nightlife
- Public transit not as usable
Amsterdam
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Active nightlife
- Good music scene
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Good public transit
- Big city activities
- Impressive beauty
- Home to the Rijksmuseum
- Less popular for food
- Less family-friendly
Is there more to do in Marrakech or Amsterdam?
Tourists will generally find more to do in Amsterdam. Although Marrakech and Amsterdam are both popular with visitors, Amsterdam has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Amsterdam is more popular for its nightlife, music, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Marrakech is known for its food, historical sights, and shopping. Marrakech is popular for its colorful medina, festive night market, and beautiful palaces. Amsterdam is popular for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also home to The Rijksmuseum.
How is Marrakech different from Amsterdam?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Amsterdam and Marrakech. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Marrakech or Amsterdam?
Marrakech
Amsterdam
You'll find a number of very good museums and attractions in both Amsterdam and Marrakech.
Marrakech offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. While wandering the medina is an attraction in and of itself, there are also several sights that you should specifically check out. The iconic Djemaa el-Fnaa, or the city's main square, is best visited as the sun goes down. Other notable landmarks include Koutoubia Mosque, Majorelle Gardens, and Medersa Ben Youssef.
Many visitors head to Amsterdam specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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 Marrakech or Amsterdam? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?
Marrakech
Amsterdam
Marrakech 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 Marrakech. Moroccan food is amazing and you'll enjoy grilled meats, tagines, couscous, and more. The city is more touristy than some parts of Morocco so you'll find the quality of the food can vary a bit, but it's still a culinary delight. Marrakesh is also a great city for taking a cooking class.
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 Marrakech or Amsterdam Better for Nightlife?
Marrakech
Amsterdam
Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Marrakech is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.
The nightlife in Amsterdam is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.
Marrakech has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Although alcohol is hard to come by, you'll find it in most western style restaurants and high end hotel chains. The city has more bars and nightclubs than you'd expect. There's also a great nighttime energy with many locals heading outside in the evening. Jemaa el-Fnaa, the main square, comes to life with street vendors, performers, and people during the nighttime hours.
Is Marrakech or Amsterdam Better for Music?
Marrakech
Amsterdam
Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Marrakech 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.
Marrakech is not a live music destination.
Is Marrakech or Amsterdam Better for its Old Town?
Marrakech
Amsterdam
Marrakech 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, Marrakech offers plenty to see. The historic medina is filled with spices, antiques, art, and pottery. The culture and experience of wandering the medina will have you feeling like you stepped back in time.
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 Marrakech or Amsterdam?
Marrakech
Amsterdam
Marrakech 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 Marrakech make it a world-class shopping destination. Shop your way through the street stalls and sample perfumes, spices, produce, and more. You'll find everything from souvenir trinkets to local items and authentic antiques.
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 Marrakech or Amsterdam Better for Families?
Marrakech
Amsterdam
Marrakech is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.
Marrakech is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will enjoy exploring a new culture and wandering through the medina. The food is very kid-friendly and during the evening the main square, Jemaa el-Fnaa, comes to life with street performers, vendors, and entertainment. Families can also take cooking classes or head into the desert for a camel trek.
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 Marrakech or Amsterdam Better for Couples?
Marrakech
Amsterdam
Marrakech is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Amsterdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.
Marrakech has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. There are many wonderful restaurants and fascinating places for couples to explores. Wandering the medina or visiting the gardens make for a romantic and adventurous getaway.
Amsterdam is a great city if you're traveling as 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.
Is Marrakech or Amsterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?
Marrakech
Amsterdam
Marrakech and Amsterdam are both fantastic destinations for backpackers.
A large number of backpackers visit Marrakech, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city is very affordable and there are countless riads that are budget-friendly. There are enough backpackers around town that it's not hard to meet fellow travelers.
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 Marrakech or Amsterdam Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?
Marrakech
Amsterdam
Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. However, Marrakech is lacking in options for its public transit.
Visitors in Amsterdam can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. 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 limited or non-existant in Marrakech. While there are local buses, most people take taxis around town when they can't walk. Taxis are affordable and convenient.
Is Marrakech or Amsterdam a more walkable city?
Marrakech
Amsterdam
Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Marrakech 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.
Marrakech is very walkable. The medina is the best area to walk around but it's very easy to get lost. Outside of the medina you'll want to keep your eyes open for motorbikes and the occasional donkey.
For even more information, also check out Is Marrakech Worth Visiting? and Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting?.
Should I spend more time in Amsterdam or Marrakech?
How long in Marrakech or Amsterdam?
Both Marrakech and Amsterdam have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Marrakech has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Marrakech than Amsterdam. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Marrakech, and 2-7 days is enough time in Amsterdam.
Families should spend more time in Marrakech than Amsterdam. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Marrakech, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in Marrakech than Amsterdam. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Marrakech that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.
Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Amsterdam than Marrakech 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 Marrakech or Amsterdam? Ideal Length of StayMarrakech 3-7Amsterdam 2-7
One day in Marrakech or Amsterdam?
People visit Marrakech 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.
You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Amsterdam. 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.
A weekend in Marrakech or Amsterdam?
People visit Marrakech 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.
You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic big city of Amsterdam. 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.
Five days in Marrakech or Amsterdam?
People visit Marrakech 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. Most people head to the area for the shopping. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.
You'll find nightlife and live music around the canal-lined city of Amsterdam. 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.
A week in Marrakech or Amsterdam?
Marrakech 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 Marrakech, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.
Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Morocco, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Morocco, The Best 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam.
-
Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayMarrakech $69Amsterdam $189
The average daily cost (per person) in Marrakech is $69, while the average daily cost in Amsterdam is $189. 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 Marrakech and Amsterdam in more detail.
Accommodation
-
Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personMarrakech $46Amsterdam $110
-
Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomMarrakech $92Amsterdam $220
Compare Hotels in Marrakech and Amsterdam
Looking for a hotel in Marrakech 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.
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: Marrakech Hotel Prices and Amsterdam Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
-
Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Marrakech $6.30Amsterdam $21
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Marrakech
Also for Marrakech, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Airport Marrakech Transfer one way: $22
- Hammam and Massage Experience with Transfers: $67
- Marrakech Airport Private Transfer: $13
- Private Transfer Agadir airport - Marrakech: $163
- Private Transfer From Marrakech To Fez: $206
- private transfer to or from Marrakech and Taroudant one trip: $98
- transfer from Marrakech city to Agadir city (AGA) one-way: $81
- "Marrakech to Chefchaouen: Your Exclusive Private Transfer": $250
- 2h Buggy Adventure in the Marrakech Desert with Transfer and Tea Break: $49
- Agadir private transfer from Imouzzer Ida Ou Tanane to Agadir airport (AGA): $104
- Airport Transfer Ride : $20
- Airport Transfert: $22
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Amsterdam
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Amsterdam:
-
Ride on Tram$3.47
-
Renting a Bike$16
-
One Hour Canal Cruise$11
-
Single Day Transit Pass$2.82
-
Transit Pass to Amsterdam Airport$3.68
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Amsterdam
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Amsterdam:
- VIP Transfer from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam City or Back to the Airport : $93
- Schiphol: Private Transfer to Amsterdam - Travel Like a VIP: $133
- Schiphol Airport Private Transfer to Brussels: $291
- Rotterdam: Private transfer to/from Schiphol Airport: $309
- Rotterdam Cruise private Transfers: Hotel to Ship & Return: $144
- Private transfer from Schiphol airport to The Hague: $102
- Private departure transfer from Amsterdam to Schiphol Airport (AMS): $57
- Private Utrecht Transfer from Amsterdam: $153
- Private Transfer: Amsterdam to Amsterdam Schiphol International Airport (AMS): $75
- Private Transfer: Amsterdam City Center to Airport Schiphol (AMS): $37
- Private Transfer in Amsterdam : $125
- Private Transfer from/to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol: $73
Is it cheaper to fly into Marrakech or Amsterdam?
Prices for flights to both Amsterdam and Marrakech 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 dayMarrakech $13Amsterdam $47
Typical Food Prices in Marrakech
For Marrakech, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:
-
Orange Juice on the Square$0.30
-
Breakfast$1.20
-
Dates$0.60
-
Olives$0.90
-
Sandwich$1.29
-
Souvenir Spices$6.18
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Marrakech
For Marrakech, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- Online Moroccan Cooking Class: $17
- Cooking Lesson at the Ouirgane Ecolodge with Lunch: $18
- Magical dinner in agafay desert with camel ride: $19
- Marrakech desert: Agafay Desert Sunset Dinner Show: $20
- Restaurant Dinner Experience with Hotel Pickup: $21
- Sunset in Agafay: Dinner, Camel, Quad-Book Adventure with Viator: $22
- Desert Dinner, Camel Ride, Sunset & Show: $23
- Dinner in Desert Marrakech and Camel ride at Sunset: $23
- Moroccan Cooking Class with a Local Chef: $24
- From Agafay Desert Sunset Dinner with Live Show: $25
- Dinner Magic in Agafay desert with transport from Marrakech: $26
- Desert Agafay Dinner at Nomad Camp and Camel Ride: $26
Typical Food Prices in Amsterdam
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Amsterdam:
-
Afternoon Tea$6.50
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 through Amsterdam: $31
- Pizza Cruise with Drinks: $40
- 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
- Evening Canal Cruise with Pizza and Drinks: $53
Entertainment
-
Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Marrakech $7.01Amsterdam $40
Typical Entertainment Prices in Marrakech
Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Marrakech's activities, tours, and tickets:
-
Palace Tickets$1.99
-
Golf at Atlas Golf$56
Tours and Activities in Marrakech
For Marrakech, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:
- 3-Hour Colorful Souks Tour: $5.00
- 3-Hour Colorful Souks Tour experience: $5.00
- 3-Hour Colorful Souks Tour with Tour guide: $5.00
- Marrakesh: Cactus Thiemann Entry Ticket: $8.20
- Ourika Valley, Atlas Mountain and Waterfalls Tour from Marrakech: $10
- Camel ride experience at the palm grove of Marrakech: $12
- 1/2 day Guided Medina Walking Tour & Souks : $13
- Marrakech:Quad Tour in Palmeraie: $14
- Historical Marrakech Walking Tour: $15
- Full Day Hiking Tour to Atlas Mountains from Marrakech: $15
- Marrakech activities: Camel ride tour Marrakech: $15
- Marrakech Sightseeing Tour: $15
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$6.50
-
Entry for two to the Anne Frank House$18
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
- 2.5-Hour Amsterdam Sightseeing Tour by Bike: $192
- 3 Hour Self-guided Cocktail Walking Tour in Amsterdam by WOGO: $44
Alcohol
-
Alcohol Drinks for one dayMarrakech $15Amsterdam $26
Sample the Local Flavors in Marrakech
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Marrakech:
- Bar Crawl with Local Guide: $28
- Moroccan wine tasting workshop in Marrakech: $70
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: $22
- Bar Crawl with Shots and Beer Maid Guide: $25
- Red Light District Pub Crawl: $27
- Central Pub Crawl and Nightlife Experience: $27
- Distillery Tour & Tasting at Spirited Union: $27
- Original Pub Crawl Party with VIP Entrance: $29
- Chateau Urban Wine Tasting and optional bites: $32
- Leidseplein and Red Light Pub Crawl: 2 Night Pass: $37
- Kings Night Ultimate Party Pub Crawl: $37
- Self-guided Red Light District Pub Crawl Mystery: $37
- Red Light District and Local Pub Tour: $39
- Dutch Cheese and Wine Tasting - Evening Cruise: $43
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Marrakech and Amsterdam, we can see that Amsterdam is more expensive. And not only is Marrakech much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Marrakech is in Africa and Amsterdam is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Marrakech would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Marrakech 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 Marrakech.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Marrakech Expensive? and Is Amsterdam Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Marrakech or Amsterdam?
Marrakech has a larger population, and is about 13% larger than the population of Amsterdam. When comparing the sizes of Marrakech 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.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.