A Travel Price Comparison for Netherlands Provincie Friesland vs. Amsterdam for Nightlife, Backpackers, Attractions, and Families

Should you visit Provincie Friesland or Amsterdam?

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

Should I visit Provincie Friesland 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.

Provincie Friesland

Provincie Friesland is a peaceful, picturesque, and scenic region. The beauty of Provincie Friesland is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the museums, food, and beaches. See Provincie Friesland travel costs.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a scenic, historic, and canal-lined city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. You'll find world class beauty in Amsterdam as well. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and shopping. See Amsterdam travel costs.

Provincie Friesland and Amsterdam: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • 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 Provincie Friesland or Amsterdam?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Amsterdam. Although Provincie Friesland and Amsterdam are about the same size, Amsterdam has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Amsterdam is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Provincie Friesland attracts visitors for its food, resorts, beaches, and hiking. Amsterdam is more touristy than Provincie Friesland and is known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Rijksmuseum. Provincie Friesland is famous for its beautiful landscapes, charming towns, and rich cultural heritage.

How is Provincie Friesland different from Amsterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Provincie Friesland or Amsterdam?

Provincie Friesland
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Provincie Friesland is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its museums and history.

Amsterdam offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Provincie Friesland offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Museums highlight the region's culture and history. The Fries Museum in Leeuwarden has exhibits on Frisian heritage, art, and the famous artist M.C. Escher. The Eise Eisinga Planetarium in Franeker is the oldest working planetarium in the world. For a more hands-on experience, the Museum of Friesland and AquaZoo in Leeuwarden provide interactive exhibits about local wildlife and the region's maritime history.


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

Provincie Friesland
Amsterdam

Provincie Friesland 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 Provincie Friesland. The food scene in the area is influenced by the region's agricultural and maritime heritage. Traditional specialties like Frisian clove cheese, smoked eel, and suikerbrood (sugar bread) are popular. There are also many local markets and you'll find a lot of seafood in many restaurants such as oysters, mussels, and shrimp.

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 Provincie Friesland or Amsterdam Better for Nightlife?

Provincie Friesland
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for nightlife. However, Provincie Friesland is a mediocre region for nightlife and partying.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Provincie Friesland. The area is relatively quiet with a more cozy and peaceful vibe. For the best nightlife, head to Leeuwarden, the region's capital. This is where you'll find the biggest variety of bars, pubs, and clubs.

Is Provincie Friesland or Amsterdam Better for Music?

Provincie Friesland
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for live music. However, Provincie Friesland is not a live music destination.

Amsterdam is a world class music destination. The city attracts its share of world renowned DJs and musicians. Popular music venues include Paradiso, De Melkweg, and Chicago Social Club.

Provincie Friesland is not a live music destination.


Is Provincie Friesland or Amsterdam Better for Resorts?

Provincie Friesland
Amsterdam

Provincie Friesland is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Amsterdam is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Provincie Friesland makes a nice vacation spot. There are a number of resorts in the region, particularly near the Frisian Lakes, Wadden Sea, or the IJsselmeer. Many offer waterfront views and outdoor activities like sailing, hiking, and cycling.

Amsterdam is not a resort destination.

Is Provincie Friesland or Amsterdam Better for Beaches?

Provincie Friesland
Amsterdam

Provincie Friesland is well known for the beach. However, Amsterdam is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Provincie Friesland. You'll find some of the best beaches along the shores of the IJsselmeer and the Wadden Sea. The IJsselmeer beaches have sandy shores that are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, with popular spots like Lemmer and Makkum providing a relaxing atmosphere. The Wadden Sea has distinctive mudflat beaches, where visitors can take part in the unique experience of wadlopen (mudflat hiking) during low tide. Terschelling and Ameland, two of the Frisian Islands, boast stunning natural beaches perfect for long walks, cycling, or simply unwinding by the sea. These islands are known for their wide, untouched coastlines, dunes, and abundant birdlife.

Amsterdam is not a beach destination.

Is Provincie Friesland or Amsterdam Better for its Old Town?

Provincie Friesland
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is notable for its historic old town. However, Provincie Friesland does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Provincie Friesland does not have a historic old town.


Is Provincie Friesland or Amsterdam Better for Hiking?

Provincie Friesland
Amsterdam

Provincie Friesland is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Amsterdam is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Provincie Friesland. De Alde Feanen National Park has some of the region's best hiking. The trails go through wetlands, heathlands, and forests. The Wadden Sea coast also offers unique walking experiences, such as mudflat hiking (wadlopen), where you can explore the shifting sands and tidal flats during low tide. For a cultural and scenic hike, the Elfstedenpad (Eleven Cities Trail) takes you through historic towns, canals, and beautiful countryside.

Amsterdam is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Provincie Friesland or Amsterdam?

Provincie Friesland
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is notable for shopping. Also, Provincie Friesland is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Amsterdam is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Provincie Friesland. The region has a mix of charming boutiques, local markets, and larger retail centers. In cities like Leeuwarden, you'll find a variety of shops ranging from high-street fashion to unique independent stores selling Dutch design, antiques, and local handicrafts. Local markets also sell fresh produce, flowers, cheeses, and regional specialties like Frisian sugar bread. Towns like Sneek and Hindeloopen are perfect for exploring quaint shops that sell artisanal goods, souvenirs, and traditional Dutch items.

Is Provincie Friesland or Amsterdam More Beautiful?

Provincie Friesland
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Provincie Friesland is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Amsterdam as well. With its beautiful canals, historic churches, and relaxing parks, this is a beautiful city.

The beauty of Provincie Friesland is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The area is filled with natural beauty and serene landscapes. There are also charming towns, green pastures, and tranquil canals.


Is Provincie Friesland or Amsterdam Better for Families?

Provincie Friesland
Amsterdam

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

Provincie Friesland is a very kid-friendly region. Kids will love the beaches, hiking, and other outdoor activities. There's also a zoo in the area and a planetarium, as well as Sybrandy's Speelpark, which is good for younger kids.

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 Provincie Friesland or Amsterdam Better for Couples?

Provincie Friesland
Amsterdam

With fun activities for couples, both Provincie Friesland and Amsterdam make for a very good place to visit.

Provincie Friesland is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many romantic outdoor areas, beaches, lakes, and other beautiful places to explore, particularly by bike. There are also spas in the area that many couples enjoy.

Amsterdam makes for a fun place to visit for 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 Provincie Friesland or Amsterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Provincie Friesland
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Provincie Friesland is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for backpackers and budget 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.

Provincie Friesland is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are places to camp in the area as well as many free activities like hiking or cycling.


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

Provincie Friesland
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for its public transit. Also, Provincie Friesland is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Amsterdam has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere 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.

Provincie Friesland has some public transit options. There are regular bus and train services linking the region's towns and cities. The Friesland Rail network provides connections between key destinations like Leeuwarden, Sneek, and Heerenveen. There are also local buses that travel to smaller villages and more remote areas.

Is Provincie Friesland or Amsterdam a more walkable city?

Provincie Friesland
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for its walkability. However, Provincie Friesland is a mediocre region for its high level of walkability.

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.

Provincie Friesland is generally not a very walkable region. Friesland is walkable in certain areas, particularly its small towns and nature reserves, but getting between destinations typically requires biking, driving, or public transport.

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

Should I spend more time in Amsterdam or Provincie Friesland?

How long in Provincie Friesland or Amsterdam?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Amsterdam than Provincie Friesland. 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 Provincie Friesland 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 Provincie Friesland or Amsterdam? Ideal Length of Stay
    Provincie Friesland 2-4 
    Amsterdam 2-7

One day in Provincie Friesland or Amsterdam?

You'll find shopping and museums around the region of Provincie Friesland. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

Each neighborhood in Amsterdam has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Provincie Friesland or Amsterdam?

You'll find museums and food around the scenic destination of Provincie Friesland. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this region has to offer. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many people visit Amsterdam for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Amsterdam, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Provincie Friesland or Amsterdam?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the scenic region of Provincie Friesland. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Each neighborhood in Amsterdam has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Many people spend five days here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Amsterdam, five days is sufficent for most.

A week in Provincie Friesland or Amsterdam?

Provincie Friesland is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Each neighborhood in Amsterdam has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. This city offers something for everyone. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Amsterdam has to offer.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Netherlands, The Best Adventure Tours to Netherlands, The Best Tours for Seniors to Netherlands, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Amsterdam.


Which place is cheaper, Amsterdam or Provincie Friesland?

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 Provincie Friesland is €245,875, while the average daily cost in Amsterdam is €211. 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 Provincie Friesland and Amsterdam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Provincie Friesland 132,547
    Amsterdam 102
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Provincie Friesland
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    264
    Amsterdam 204
Compare Hotels in Provincie Friesland and Amsterdam

Looking for a hotel in Provincie Friesland 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 Provincie Friesland


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: Amsterdam Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Provincie Friesland 18,325
    Amsterdam 20

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Amsterdam

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Amsterdam:


  • Ride on Tram
    3.20
  • Renting a Bike
    15
  • One Hour Canal Cruise
    10
  • Single Day Transit Pass
    2.60
  • Transit Pass to Amsterdam Airport
    3.40

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Amsterdam

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Amsterdam:

  • Train Transfer Amsterdam from/to Leiden: $15
  • Private Amsterdam Schiphol Airport Transfer Service: $40
  • Transfer: Amsterdam City Center to Airport Schiphol (AMS): $41
  • From Keukenhof Gardens Ticket and Transfer: $41
  • Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) Departure transfer from Amsterdam City: $42
  • Private Amsterdam Local Transfer to/from any Location: $49
  • Amsterdam Airport & Non-Airport Private Transfer to City Center: $58
  • Keukenhof Gardens with Windmill Cruise & Transfer from Amsterdam: $66
  • Amsterdam City to Schiphol Airport Transfer: $73
  • Private Transfer from Amsterdam Hotels to Amsterdam Cruise Port : $77
  • Amsterdam Cruise Port to Amsterdam hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $77
  • VIP Amsterdam Airport Departure Transfer: $77

Is it cheaper to fly into Provincie Friesland or Amsterdam?

Prices for flights to both Amsterdam and Provincie Friesland 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
    Provincie Friesland 89,227
    Amsterdam 80

Typical Food Prices in Amsterdam

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Amsterdam:


  • Afternoon Tea
    6.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Amsterdam

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Amsterdam.

  • Amsterdam Self-Guided Food Tour in De Pijp Neighbourhood : $11
  • Stroopwafel & Secrets: Amsterdam Street Food Tour de Pijp : $42
  • Bike Rental and Dinner or Lunch: $52
  • Amsterdam Nightlife Ticket & VIP Dinner at Hard Rock Café: $61
  • 3-course Dinner in the Dark Amsterdam: $63
  • 3-course dinner party at a secret pop-up restaurant: $72
  • Bens Local Food Tour - 8 Tastings: $78
  • Amsterdam Music Tour with Dinner: $86
  • Small-Group Guided Sunset Canoe Tour in Waterland with Dinner: $94
  • Dutch Food Tour with local guide: $94
  • Amsterdam-West Food Tour with local guide: $102
  • Dinner Canal Cruise 4-Courses Including Drinks: $107

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Provincie Friesland 15,702
    Amsterdam 37

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
    6.00
  • Entry for two to the Anne Frank House
    17

Tours and Activities in Amsterdam

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

  • The Classic Walking Tour of Amsterdam | 2 Hours with a Local: $3.59
  • The Anne Frank Tour Amsterdam: $3.59
  • Bill's Bike Tour - Rent a Flower Bike in Amsterdam: $5.00
  • Amsterdam Tour through its most famous Icons: $6.01
  • Amsterdam Center Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $6.45
  • Amsterdam (Museum Quarter) Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Tour: $6.45
  • Red Light District Amsterdam Tour with Audioguide: $8.40
  • Amsterdam Interactive City Tour: $8.42
  • WW2 Jewish & Anne Frank Amsterdam Smartphone Guided Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Old A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Amsterdam's Red Light District: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Self-Guided Interactive Walking Tour Jordaan : $12

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Provincie Friesland 6,000
    Amsterdam 24

Sample the Local Flavors in Amsterdam

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

  • Original Amsterdam Pub Crawl: $29
  • City Centre Bar Crawl and Nightlife Experience: $30
  • Amsterdam Craft Beer Brewery Tour by Bus with Tastings : $78
  • New Year's Eve Pub Crawl With Optional Club Entrance: $84
  • Dutch Wine Tasting Experience: $141


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Provincie Friesland and Amsterdam, we can see that Provincie Friesland 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 Provincie Friesland would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Provincie Friesland 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 Provincie Friesland Expensive? and Is Amsterdam Expensive?.


Which has a larger population, Provincie Friesland or Amsterdam?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 14% larger than the population of Provincie Friesland. When comparing the sizes of Provincie Friesland 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.