A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nottingham vs. Lisse for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Nottingham or Lisse?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nottingham and Lisse 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.

Nottingham

Nottingham is a authentic, dynamic, and livable city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Nottingham travel costs.

Lisse

Lisse is a colorful, picturesque, and stunning town. The famous beauty of Lisse is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Lisse travel costs.

Nottingham and Lisse: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Keukenhof Gardens


Is there more to do in Nottingham or Lisse?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Nottingham. Although Nottingham and Lisse are popular destinations, Nottingham has more sights and attractions for tourists. Nottingham is very popular for its music, shopping, and big city activities, while Lisse attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Lisse is more touristy than Nottingham and is popular for its stunning flowers and iconic tulip fields. Nottingham is famous for its authenticity and local cuisine. It is also well known for Old Market Square.

How is Nottingham different from Lisse?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nottingham or Lisse?

Nottingham
Lisse

Both Nottingham and Lisse have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

Nottingham is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. You'll find history and culture around town. Some of the notable landmarks include Wollaton Hall, the National Justice Museum, Nottingham Castle, and Old Market Square.

Lisse offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a handful of museums in the area, like the Museum de Zwarte Tulp (Museum of the Black Tulip), which showcases the history and art of the Dutch flower-growing industry, including exhibits on tulips, bulbs, and floral culture. And, of course, there's the Keukenhof Gardens, which is the main draw to the area during the spring season and one of the most popular attractions in the Netherlands.


Is the Food Better in Nottingham or Lisse? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nottingham
Lisse

Both Nottingham and Lisse offer nice local cuisine and restaurants.

Nottingham offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a diversity of restaurants around town that range from local fish and chips shops to international options. Pubs, cafes, and fine dining are all available in town.

Lisse has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The town has a variety of food options, from traditional Dutch snacks to international cuisine. Local cafes and restaurants often serve classic Dutch dishes, such as poffertjes (mini pancakes) and bitterballen (fried meatballs), perfect for a quick bite or a relaxed meal. In Keukenhof Gardens you'll find food stalls, trucks, and a cafe, but they can get crowded during peak times.

Is Nottingham or Lisse Better for Nightlife?

Nottingham
Lisse

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Nottingham and Lisse.

Nottingham has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Head to the oldest pub in England, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, for a pint or check out one of the trendy clubs around town. The city is also a big sports town, so see if there are any sporting events going on while you're visiting.

If you're looking for night time activities Lisse has a few options to choose from. Most people don't think about nightlife when they visit town but there's a surprising number of thinks to do like cozy bars and charming cafes. Visitors can enjoy live music, great drinks, and a friendly atmosphere, especially in the town's central areas.

Is Nottingham or Lisse Better for Music?

Nottingham
Lisse

Nottingham is a popular place for its live music scene. However, Lisse is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Nottingham is active and vibrant. Many of the best music concerts in the UK make there way to Nottingham. Check out Rock City, which hosts all kinds of concerts.

Lisse is not a live music destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Nottingham or Lisse?

Nottingham
Lisse

Nottingham is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Lisse is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping areas.

Nottingham is well-known for its shopping. Head to the Lace Market, which is a popular shopping area. You can also wander around the center of town on foot and head to the pedestrian streets that are often lined with independent shops or international chains.

Many visitors go to Lisse to go shopping. The town offers a range of shopping opportunities, especially in its charming town center. You’ll find boutique stores, gift shops, and specialty shops selling local products, such as Dutch cheeses, flowers, and souvenirs.

Is Nottingham or Lisse More Beautiful?

Nottingham
Lisse

Lisse is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, Nottingham is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Lisse is one of the main draws. Most visitors come for the Keukenhof Gardens, which are a breathtaking spectacle, renowned for their vibrant and meticulously arranged displays of millions of tulips and other flowers. The gardens are designed with picturesque pathways, tranquil ponds, and themed flower beds, making it feel like a living painting in every corner.

Nottingham is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Nottingham or Lisse Better for Families?

Nottingham
Lisse

Both Nottingham and Lisse are nice to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Nottingham. There are a number of parks and play areas that younger kids will enjoy. You can check out Wheelgate Park, White Post Farm, Rufford Abbey, or Sherwood Pines. Sundown Adventureland is a small theme park that's designed for younger kids under 10. If your kids are into museums, head to the Newark Air Museum.

Lisse offers lots of family activities. The Keukenhof Gardens has a few things to keep the kids entertained, like a play area and boat rides. Some kids will also enjoy seeing the millions of colorful tulips and other flowers. For a more interactive experience, families can head to the Flowerstrip, where children can explore local farms and see how flowers are grown. Also near town is Lisse is the Duinrell theme park, which has thrilling rides and a water park that’s perfect for a family day out.


Is Nottingham or Lisse Better for Couples?

Nottingham
Lisse

Lisse is well known for romance. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Lisse frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples will enjoy this area, especially during the spring when the Keukenhof Gardens come alive with vibrant tulip fields and flower displays. There are also boat rides through the nearby canals, surrounded by beautiful countryside. A visit to the nearby Keukenhof Castle provides a charming atmosphere, with its elegant gardens and tea room. perfect for relaxing together. Couples can also explore the local flower fields by bike.

Nottingham makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. You'll find the typical date night activities around town like arcades, minigolf, and some interesting restaurants. There are also parks where you can enjoy a stroll in nature.

Is Nottingham or Lisse Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nottingham
Lisse

Lisse is a town with good options for backpackers. However, Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Lisse is a good town to visit for backpackers. The entrance fee to Keukenhof Gardens can be a bit pricey, but there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy nearby, like cycling through the beautiful tulip fields or exploring the nearby countryside. Budget accommodations, such as hostels or guesthouses, can be found in Lisse or in nearby towns like Leiden, offering affordable options for travelers.

Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Nottingham or Lisse Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nottingham
Lisse

Nottingham is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Lisse is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

Public transit in Nottingham can get you to some places easily. There are buses and trams around town that connect into the rail network. The multi-operator system is organized by the Robin Hood Network.

Lisse has a few public transit options. There are buses that travel from Schiphol Airport and elsewhere in the country to Keukenhof Gardens. It's best to book your tickets in advance.


Is Nottingham or Lisse a more walkable city?

Nottingham
Lisse

Nottingham is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Lisse is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its ease of walking around.

Nottingham is a very walkable city. It is trying to transform itself into a pedestrian-friendly city, and you'll find some areas that are particularly walkable. The city center is very compact and generally walkable.

Lisse is a somewhat walkable city. Many visitors bike through the tulip fields outside of the Keukenhof Gardens. You could walk, but you'll cover more ground with a bicycle.

For even more information, also check out Is Nottingham Worth Visiting? and Is Lisse Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lisse or Nottingham?

How long in Nottingham or Lisse?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Nottingham or Lisse to fill your time. In our opinion, Nottingham has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Nottingham than Lisse. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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


  • How many days in Nottingham or Lisse? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nottingham 1-2 
    Lisse 1-2

One day in Nottingham or Lisse?

In Nottingham, many people enjoy the live music and food that this authentic destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

With museums and nightlife around the colorful town of Lisse, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lisse, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Nottingham or Lisse?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nottingham. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Lisse, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.


Five days in Nottingham or Lisse?

Nottingham is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Nottingham. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Lisse, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Nottingham or Lisse?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Nottingham. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Lisse is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United Kingdom, The Best Luxury Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Netherlands.


Which place is cheaper, Lisse or Nottingham?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Nottingham is £143, while the average daily cost in Lisse is £155. 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 Nottingham and Lisse in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nottingham £64
    Lisse £68
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nottingham £128
    Lisse £136
Compare Hotels in Nottingham and Lisse

Looking for a hotel in Nottingham or Lisse? 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 Nottingham


Hotels in Lisse


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: Nottingham Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nottingham £21
    Lisse £20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nottingham

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nottingham:

  • Private Transfer from Nottingham to Manchester Airport (MAN): $292
  • Airport Transfer Service | Nottinghamshire to Manchester Airport: $273
  • East Midlands Airport (EMA) to Nottingham - Round-Trip Transfer: $125
  • Private Nottingham Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $110
  • Derby to East Midlands Airport (EMA) - Departure Private Transfer: $86
  • Nottingham to East Midlands Airport (EMA) - Departure Transfer: $62
  • East Midlands Airport(EMA) to Nottingham-Arrival Private Transfer: $62

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lisse

Also for Lisse, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • From Rotterdam: One-Way Private Transfer to/from Keukenhof: $337
  • From The Hague: One-Way Private Transfer to/from Keukenhof: $291
  • Private Transfer from Haarlem to cruise port in Amsterdam: $103

Is it cheaper to fly into Nottingham or Lisse?

Prices for flights to both Lisse and Nottingham 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
    Nottingham £62
    Lisse £70

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lisse

For Lisse, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Haarlem Evening Pizza Cruise with Fresh Nolita Pizza: $31
  • Haarlem's Food-steps: A self-guided Food Tour: $43
  • Self Guided Asian Food Tour Haarlem: $47
  • Food Tour Haarlem | Guided & Walking | Old City: $105
  • 10 Tastes of Haarlem Food Tour: Full Meal, 15 min from Amsterdam: $194

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nottingham £28
    Lisse £26

Tours and Activities in Nottingham

Here are a few actual costs in Nottingham for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 2 Hours Private Walking Adventure in Nottingham: $236
  • Abseil Experience - Millersdale Derbyshire Peak District: $53
  • Daily Nottingham City Centre Walking Tour (10:30am): $19
  • Discover Lincoln: Self Guided Tour & Interactive Treasure Hunt: $39
  • Explore Nottingham in 90 minutes with a Local - Private Tour: $108
  • Great British Classic Car Driving Experience: $74
  • Lincoln Private Walking Tour: $184
  • Little John's Big Tour of Nottingham: $29
  • Nottingham Private Guided Walking Tour: $322
  • Nottingham Robin Hood Town Tour: $30
  • Nottingham Self Guided Walking Tour: $18
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $20

Tours and Activities in Lisse

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Lisse.

  • Haarlem 2-Hour Walking Tour | Discover The City With A Local: $3.51
  • Haarlem Battle Quest: Self-Guided City Defense Adventure: $8.21
  • Hidden Courtyards of Haarlem Self-Guided Walking Tour: $11
  • Pub Trail Haarlem: an adventure full of surprises: $13
  • Haarlem Cultural self guided Audio Historical & cultural Tour: $15
  • Haarlem: Scenic Canal Cruise through the Old City of Haarlem: $20
  • Haarlem Open-Boat Canal Cruise with Live Guide (Electric Boat): $22
  • 90 minutes Self-Guided Walking tour with puzzles in Haarlem: $23
  • Haarlem: Windmill Visit and Spaarne River Cruise: $23
  • Self-Guided Secrets of Haarlem Exploration Game Tour: $23
  • Discover Haarlem with a self-guided Outside Escape city game tour: $32
  • Escape Experience Haarlem The Escape of Kenau: $33

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nottingham £7.10
    Lisse £20

Sample the Local Flavors in Nottingham

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nottingham:

  • DropWorks Rum Tour - Largest Premium Rum Distillery in Europe!: $34
  • Nottingham Private Historic Pub Tour with Free Drinks: $130


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


Which is Bigger, Nottingham or Lisse?

Nottingham has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Lisse. When comparing the sizes of Nottingham and Lisse, 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 Nottingham or Lisse?

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 Nottingham or Lisse in the Summer?

Both Lisse and Nottingham during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Nottingham for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Lisse in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

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

In Lisse, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Nottingham often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lisse. Nottingham gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lisse receives 204 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets less rain in July than Lisse. Nottingham gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Lisse receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nottingham 16°C (62°F) 
    Lisse 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Lisse in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Nottingham and Lisse. Many visitors come to Nottingham in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, most visitors come to Lisse for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Nottingham is generally around the same temperature as Lisse. Daily temperatures in Nottingham average around 11°C (52°F), and Lisse fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Nottingham usually receives more sunshine than Lisse during autumn. Nottingham gets 112 hours of sunny skies, while Lisse receives 99 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Lisse. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Lisse receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nottingham 11°C (52°F) 
    Lisse 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Lisse in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Nottingham as well as Lisse. Most visitors come to Nottingham for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Lisse because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

In the winter, Nottingham often gets more sunshine than Lisse. Nottingham gets 61 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lisse receives 46 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets less rain in January than Lisse. Nottingham gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Lisse receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nottingham 4°C (39°F) 
    Lisse 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Lisse in the Spring?

Both Lisse and Nottingham are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Nottingham because of the activities around the city. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Lisse this time of year.

In the spring, Nottingham is around the same temperature as Lisse. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nottingham in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Lisse averages at about 8°C (46°F).

Nottingham usually receives less sunshine than Lisse during spring. Nottingham gets 151 hours of sunny skies, while Lisse receives 166 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Lisse. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Lisse receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nottingham 8°C (46°F) 
    Lisse 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Lisse and Nottingham

Nottingham Lisse
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 50 mm (2 in) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)


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