A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Odense vs. Amsterdam for Backpackers, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Odense 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 Odense 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.

Odense

And you can't forget about the food.

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. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, live music, and shopping.

Odense and Amsterdam: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Rijksmuseum
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Odense or Amsterdam?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Amsterdam than Odense, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Amsterdam is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Odense is known for its food. Amsterdam is more touristy than Odense and is known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also home to The Rijksmuseum. Odense is popular for

How is Odense different from Amsterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Odense
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is notable for its sights and museums. However, Odense does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Odense does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Odense
Amsterdam

Odense 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 Odense. You'll find local restaurants serving local favorites such as smoked salmon. You'll also find burger joints and international options such as sushi.

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 Odense or Amsterdam Better for Nightlife?

Odense
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is terrific for its evening party scene. However, Odense is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Amsterdam is a must-see 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.

Odense is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Odense or Amsterdam Better for Music?

Odense
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is terrific for its music scene. However, Odense is not a live music destination.

In Amsterdam you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The city attracts its share of world renowned DJs and musicians. Popular music venues include Paradiso, De Melkweg, and Chicago Social Club.

Odense is not a live music destination.


Is Odense or Amsterdam Better for its Old Town?

Odense
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is notable for its historic old town charm. However, Odense does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see 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.

Odense does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Odense or Amsterdam?

Odense
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is notable for its shopping areas. However, Odense is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Odense is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Odense or Amsterdam Better for Families?

Odense
Amsterdam

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

Odense is a very kid-friendly city. As the home of Hans Christian Andersen, this town is a child's playhouse. You can visit the H.C. Andersen House, which will bring his fairytale mind to life. The city also has more than 200 playgrounds, an amazing zoo, and the Funen Village, which is an open air museum. There's also a castle to explore and paddle boating on the water.

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 Odense or Amsterdam Better for Couples?

Odense
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is notable for couples. However, Odense is a mediocre city for romance.

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.

Odense is not the best destination for a couple to visit. It's a charming city with a lot of green space and paddle boating on the water, but it lacks some of the romance that you find in many European cities.

Is Odense or Amsterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Odense
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is terrific for backpackers. However, Odense is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Amsterdam is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Odense is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's a hostel or two in town, but most backpackers don't make the time to visit this off-the-beaten-path destination.

Is Odense or Amsterdam Better for Students?

Odense
Amsterdam

Odense is a nice place to visit for students. However, Amsterdam is not popular with students.

Odense is popular with students. It's a charming and friendly city that makes a fun place to learn and live. There's a fascinating culture and a number of things to do.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.


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

Odense
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is terrific for its public transit. However, Odense does not have public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Amsterdam can take you anywhere. 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.

Odense does not have public transit.

Is Odense or Amsterdam a more walkable city?

Odense
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is terrific for its ease of walking around. However, Odense is not a walkable destination.

It is easy to get around Amsterdam on foot. The historic parts of the city are very walkable and much of the city is best explored on foot.

Odense is not a walkable destination.

Should I spend more time in Amsterdam or Odense?

How long in Odense or Amsterdam?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Amsterdam than Odense. 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 Odense 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 Odense or Amsterdam? Ideal Length of Stay
    Odense 2-3 
    Amsterdam 2-7

One day in Odense or Amsterdam?

You'll find food around the city of Odense. 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.

Amsterdam is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Odense or Amsterdam?

You'll find food around the destination of Odense. 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.

Amsterdam is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Odense or Amsterdam?

Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the city of Odense. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Amsterdam. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Odense or Amsterdam?

Odense 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 bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Copenhagen, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Denmark, The Best 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam.


Which place is cheaper, Amsterdam or Odense?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Odense is $160, 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 Odense and Amsterdam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Odense $80
    Amsterdam $110
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Odense $160
    Amsterdam $220
Compare Hotels in Odense and Amsterdam

Looking for a hotel in Odense 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.

Hotels in Odense


Hotels in Amsterdam


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: Odense Hotel Prices and Amsterdam Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Odense $44
    Amsterdam $21

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:

  • Train transfer From/To Zaandijk Zaanse Schans: $5.01
  • Train Transfer Schiphol Airport from/to Amsterdam: $6.29
  • Airport Express Bus Transfer to/from City Center: $6.93
  • 1-Way Train Transfer to/from Haarlem: $7.35
  • Train Transfer From/To Zandvoort in Amsterdam: $7.99
  • Train Transfer Amsterdam from/to Utrecht: $12
  • Train Transfer Amsterdam from/to Leiden: $13
  • Travel Ticket for 1-3 Days With Airport Transfer: $19
  • Train Transfer Amsterdam from/to Rotterdam: $21
  • Train Transfer Schiphol Airport from/to Eindhoven: $26
  • Eindhoven: Train Transfer Eindhoven from/to Amsterdam: $26
  • From Bus Transfer to Flower Fields Keukenhof: $27

Is it cheaper to fly into Odense or Amsterdam?

Prices for flights to both Amsterdam and Odense 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
    Odense $51
    Amsterdam $47

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.

  • 2 Hours Food Tour in Amsterdam (Tip Based): $5.44
  • Amsterdam Self-Guided Food Tour in De Pijp Neighbourhood : $8.16
  • Self-Guided Food Tour in De Jordaan Neighbourhood: $13
  • Self-Guided Food Tour in De Pijp Neighbourhood: $13
  • Self-Guided Food Tour of Amsterdam's De Jordaan District: $14
  • Hard Rock Cafe Amsterdam with Set Lunch or Dinner: $31
  • Exclusive Burger Dinner Cruise through Amsterdam: $31
  • Pizza Cruise with Drinks: $40
  • Amsterdam Nightlife Ticket with A GOLD MENU Hard Rock Dinner: $43
  • Amsterdam Evening Canal Cruise With Pizza and Drinks: $43
  • Food Tour Jordaan District: $51
  • Food Tour Amsterdam's Jordaan District Self-Guided: $52

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Odense $29
    Amsterdam $40

Tours and Activities in Odense

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Odense are as follows:

  • Copenhagen Audio Tour: Following Hans Christian Andersen: $9.99
  • River Cruise on the Odense River: $16
  • GoBoat Self-drive Boat Tour: $57
  • Inspiring Odense - Walking Tour for Couples: $478
  • Christmas Charms in Odense - Walking Tour: $585

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:

  • Golden Age Canals Walking Tour: $1.07
  • Red Light District Haunted History Night Tour: $1.69
  • Two-hour walking tour of Amsterdam: $2.60
  • Rude Bastards Tour of Amsterdam: $3.20
  • Best of Amsterdam City Tour: $3.20
  • City Exploration Game and Walking Tour: $3.20
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.20
  • The Anne Frank Tour (Tip Based) Amsterdam : $3.25
  • Dark History of the City Walking Tour: $3.41
  • Free walking tour of haunted Amsterdam: $4.26
  • Amsterdam West Specialty Coffee Spots: A Self-Guided Cycling Tour: $5.41
  • Private Walking Tour through the Streets of Amsterdam: $5.44

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Odense $22
    Amsterdam $26

Sample the Local Flavors in Amsterdam

Also in Amsterdam, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Bar Crawl with Shots and Beer Maid Guide: $25
  • Central Pub Crawl and Nightlife Experience: $27
  • Red Light District Pub Crawl: $27
  • Central Pub Crawl and Nightlife Experience: $27
  • Original Pub Crawl Party with VIP Entrance: $29
  • Chateau Urban Wine Tasting and optional bites: $32
  • Self-guided Red Light District Pub Crawl Mystery: $37
  • Leidseplein and Red Light Pub Crawl: 2 Night Pass: $37
  • Kings Night Ultimate Party Pub Crawl: $37
  • Red Light District and Local Pub Tour: $39
  • Dutch Wine Tasting || Amsterdam City Centre: $48
  • Red-Light District Pub Crawl and Booze Boat Tour: $52


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Odense and Amsterdam, we can see that Amsterdam is more expensive. And not only is Odense much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Odense would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Odense 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 Odense.

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


Which is Bigger, Odense or Amsterdam?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Odense. When comparing the sizes of Odense 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.