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

Should you visit Mykonos 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 Mykonos 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.

Mykonos

Mykonos is a picturesque, postcard perfect, and glamourous Greek island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a laid-back, scenic, and historic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and shopping.

Mykonos and Amsterdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mykonos or Amsterdam?

You'll generally find more things to do in Amsterdam than Mykonos. Amsterdam is bigger than Mykonos, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Amsterdam is better known for its museums, music, and big city activities, while Mykonos is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and quaint atmosphere. Mykonos is well known for its active party scene, luxury accommodation, and picturesque villages. Amsterdam is well known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. Also, Amsterdam is famous for The Rijksmuseum.

How is Mykonos different from Amsterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Amsterdam is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Mykonos is not as famous, but is still a good Greek island to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Mykonos. Visitors enjoy checking out the windmills and churches around the island. You can also hop over to Delos to see its archeological sites.

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

Mykonos 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, Mykonos is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Like most things on the island, food is expensive, but its also very good. Make sure you try the louza sausage, kopanisti cheese, and melopita pie.

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 Mykonos or Amsterdam Better for Nightlife?

Both Mykonos and Amsterdam are world-class when it comes to partying.

The nightlife in Mykonos is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. With many exclusive clubs and bars, this island is among the best for nightlife in Greece. Popular options include Tropicana Club, Scarpa, and Super Paradise Beach Club.

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 Mykonos or Amsterdam Better for Music?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Mykonos is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Amsterdam The city attracts its share of world renowned DJs and musicians. Popular music venues include Paradiso, De Melkweg, and Chicago Social Club.

Mykonos is not a live music destination.

Is Mykonos or Amsterdam Better for Resorts?

Mykonos is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Amsterdam is not a resort destination.

Mykonos offers an unforgettable resort vacation. There are many world class luxury resorts on the island that offer a variety of amenities including pools, restaurants, and spas. Popular options include Myconian Avaton Resort, Myconian Imperial Resort and Villas, and Myconian Utopia Resort.

Amsterdam is not a resort destination.

Is Mykonos or Amsterdam Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mykonos is well known for its diving and snorkeling. However, Amsterdam is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Mykonos to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. There are many good diving and snorkeling spots around the island include shipwrecks and reefs with good visibility.

Amsterdam is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mykonos or Amsterdam Better for Beaches?

Mykonos is well known for the beache. However, Amsterdam is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Mykonos. This island has become popular for its sandy beaches, but these days they come with a high price. Many are lined with umbrellas and sunbeds that you can rent. They often have bars that bring high energy and loud music. The water is often calm enough to enjoy swimming or water sports. Most of the best beaches are on the southern side of the island, but there are less crowds on the northern side, although the weather may not be as good.

Amsterdam is not a beach destination.

Is Mykonos or Amsterdam Better for its Old Town?

Mykonos 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, Mykonos offers plenty to see. Chora, the old town and largest town on the island, is filled with windmills, cafes, churches, and charming streets.

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 Mykonos or Amsterdam Better for Hiking?

Mykonos is not so good for its hiking experiences. However, Amsterdam is not a hiking destination.

A few hiking trails can be found near Mykonos. This island doesn't have any real hiking but you can walk to the beach along the road. The island is mostly flat.

Amsterdam is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mykonos or Amsterdam?

Mykonos 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 Mykonos make it a world-class shopping destination. This island has become the playground for celebrities and the wealthy, so there are plenty of shopping opportunities in town.

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 Mykonos or Amsterdam Better for Families?

Most people don't think of either Mykonos or Amsterdam as a family destination.

Mykonos is not the most family-friendly destination. This island is a bit of a party destination, so many people choose alternative islands when visiting Greece with their kids. If you do head to Mykonos, you'll find nice beaches and some good museums.

Amsterdam is not always a place people visit with their families. 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 Mykonos or Amsterdam Better for Couples?

Mykonos is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Amsterdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Mykonos has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples who enjoy beautiful coastal settings with a great party scene will love a vacation or honeymoon to this Greek island.

Amsterdam is a great Greek island 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 Mykonos or Amsterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit 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.

Mykonos is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The island appeals to the wealthy and glamourous, but for backpackers and budget travelers, there are a few budget-friendly hotels. It'll be a bit harder to find affordable food though, as restaurants can be quite expensive.

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

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Mykonos is not as famous, but is still a good Greek island to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Mykonos has some public transit options. There is a bus system that connects the towns and beaches on the island. Both major bus stations are on the western side of the island.

Is Mykonos or Amsterdam a more walkable city?

Mykonos and Amsterdam both are world-class when exploring on foot.

It is easy to get around Mykonos on foot. Walking is actually one of the only ways to get around town.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Amsterdam or Mykonos?

How long in Mykonos or Amsterdam?

Both Mykonos 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 Mykonos. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mykonos, and 2-7 days is enough time in Amsterdam.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Amsterdam than Mykonos 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 Mykonos or Amsterdam?

You'll find nightlife and food around the quaint Greek island of Mykonos. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

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 Mykonos or Amsterdam?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the ritzy destination of Mykonos. 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 Greek island 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 Mykonos or Amsterdam?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the ritzy Greek island of Mykonos. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this Greek island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this Greek island has to offer.

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 Mykonos or Amsterdam?

Mykonos is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Contiki Tours to Greece, The Best G Adventures Tours to Greece, 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 Mykonos and Amsterdam, we can see that Amsterdam is more expensive. And not only is Mykonos much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Mykonos would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Mykonos 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 Mykonos.

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

Which is Bigger, Mykonos or Amsterdam?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 26% larger than the population of Mykonos. When comparing the sizes of Mykonos 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.