A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Sydney vs. Amsterdam for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Sydney or Amsterdam?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Sydney or Amsterdam, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Sydney

Sydney is a glamorous , diverse, and energetic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a canal-lined, party-oriented, and laid-back city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Sydney and Amsterdam: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Sydney Opera House
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
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Rijksmuseum
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Sydney or Amsterdam?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Amsterdam than Sydney. While Sydney is larger than Amsterdam, Amsterdam has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Amsterdam is more popular for its music, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Sydney is known for its museums, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and shopping. Amsterdam is more touristy than Sydney and is known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also home to The Rijksmuseum. Sydney is popular for its iconic buildings, world-renowned beaches, colorful nightlife, and cosmopolitan restaurants.

How is Sydney different from Amsterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Sydney
Amsterdam

Sydney is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Amsterdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Sydney are among the most recognizable in the world. The city is filled with iconic and world famous landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. There's also the famous Royal Botanic Garden and the Sydney Tower Eye.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.


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

Sydney
Amsterdam

Sydney 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 Sydney. There are international restaurants offering impressive dishes from around the world. You'll also find some local Australian favorites around town. Seafood is abundant, as are a number of Asian cuisines. Barramundi is a local fish that you'll find on many menus. Oysters, prawns, and John Dory (a local fish) are also popular.

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 Sydney or Amsterdam Better for Nightlife?

Sydney
Amsterdam

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Sydney and Amsterdam.

The nightlife in Sydney is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The city is filled with nightclubs and DJ hosted dance parties. There's a huge young crowd that brings together residents, students, and backpackers in a vibrant nightlife scene. Some of the best areas for nightlife are Kings Cross, Oxford Street, Surry Hills or Darling Harbour.

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 Sydney or Amsterdam Better for Music?

Sydney
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Sydney 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.

Sydney is not a live music destination.


Is Sydney or Amsterdam Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sydney
Amsterdam

Sydney is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Amsterdam is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Sydney has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There's some good snorkeling and diving nearby with a diversity of marine life and interesting ecosystems. Some of the best snorkeling spots are at Palm Beach, Shelly Beach, and Clifton Gardens.

Amsterdam is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Sydney or Amsterdam Better for Beaches?

Sydney
Amsterdam

Sydney is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Amsterdam is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Sydney are among the best in the world. There are more than 100 beaches near the city with everything from hidden coves to world famous destinations. Bondi Beach is the most famous beach in town and it has all of the tourist sights and activities that you could need. Surfers often head to Bronte Beach, which isn't too far away. Divers and snorkelers love Gordons Bay. Manly is also a nearby suburb with family-friendly beaches that can be reached by ferry.

Amsterdam is not a beach destination.

Is Sydney or Amsterdam Better for its Old Town?

Sydney
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Sydney does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Amsterdam to see the historical old town. 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.

Sydney does not have a historic old town.


Is Sydney or Amsterdam Better for Hiking?

Sydney
Amsterdam

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

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Sydney. The city offers a number of coastal and inland trails that are easily accessible from town. There are short paths as well as multi-day routes not far and pass by stunning landscapes and viewpoints.

Amsterdam is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sydney or Amsterdam?

Sydney
Amsterdam

Sydney 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 Sydney make it a world-class shopping destination. There's a wonderful mix of shopping streets, modern malls, and boutique vendors who sell local fashions. For souvenirs or local art, go to The Rocks, which is not far from Sydney Opera House. The Queen Victoria Building and Strand Arcade are also popular shopping areas.

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 Sydney or Amsterdam Better for Families?

Sydney
Amsterdam

Sydney is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Sydney is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. The city has great beaches where kids can learn to surf, zoos and aquariums with local wildlife, and outdoor activities that take advantage of the city's waterfront location. There's everything from whale watching to visiting the Olympic Park, all of which will fascinate kids of all ages.

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 Sydney or Amsterdam Better for Couples?

Sydney
Amsterdam

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

Sydney has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's a romantic city that's filled with iconic landmarks like the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House. There are also award winning restaurants and world class beaches. Wander around the botanical gardens or take a sailing cruise on the harbor. There is an endless supply of romantic activities to choose from.

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 Sydney or Amsterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sydney
Amsterdam

Sydney and Amsterdam are amazing places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Sydney is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. It's popular for its adventure sports, active beaches, and vibrant nightlife. While it's not a particularly cheap city to visit, there are plenty of hostels around town and no shortage of backpackers to hang out with.

Many backpackers frequent 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.

Is Sydney or Amsterdam Better for Students?

Sydney
Amsterdam

Sydney is an unbeatable place for students. However, Amsterdam is not popular with students.

Sydney is a great destination for students. Students love the energy and plethora of outdoor activities in this beautiful city. Many international students come not only for the excellent universities but also for the diverse environment and many things to do.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.


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

Sydney
Amsterdam

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Sydney and Amsterdam.

Visitors in Sydney can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There are a variety of types of public transit in town including buses, trains, ferries and light rail.

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.

Is Sydney or Amsterdam a more walkable city?

Sydney
Amsterdam

Amsterdam is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Sydney is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

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

Sydney is very walkable. The city center and nearby suburbs are relatively easy to walk around. On the western side of the city, the suburbs are much less walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Amsterdam or Sydney?

How long in Sydney or Amsterdam?

Both Sydney and Amsterdam have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Sydney has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Sydney than Amsterdam. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Sydney, and 2-7 days is enough time in Amsterdam.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sydney than Amsterdam 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 Sydney.


  • How many days in Sydney or Amsterdam? Ideal Length of Stay
    Sydney 3-7 
    Amsterdam 2-7

One day in Sydney or Amsterdam?

People visit Sydney because there is so much to do. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the big city destination of Amsterdam. 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 Sydney or Amsterdam?

People visit Sydney because there is so much to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

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 Sydney or Amsterdam?

People visit Sydney 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. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

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 Sydney or Amsterdam?

Sydney is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Sydney, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the laid-back big city of Amsterdam. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Australia, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Australia, The Best 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam.


Which place is cheaper, Amsterdam or Sydney?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Sydney is $274, while the average daily cost in Amsterdam is $190. 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 Sydney and Amsterdam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sydney $103
    Amsterdam $111
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sydney $206
    Amsterdam $222
Compare Hotels in Sydney and Amsterdam

Looking for a hotel in Sydney 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 Sydney


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: Sydney Hotel Prices and Amsterdam Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Sydney $15
    Amsterdam $22
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Sydney

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Sydney:


  • Taxi Ride
    $13
  • Taxi to Airport
    $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sydney

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Sydney:

  • Airport Transfer From Sydney Airport to Hotels and Home: $295
  • Airport Transfer From Sydney Airport to Hotels and Home: $165
  • Airport Transfer: Sydney Airport SYD to Sydney by Business Car: $104
  • Airport Transfer: Sydney Airport SYD to Sydney by Luxury Van: $115
  • Airport Transfer: Sydney to Sydney Airport SYD by Business Car: $104
  • Airport Transfer: Sydney to Sydney Airport SYD by Luxury Van: $115
  • Airport transfers and shuttle bus - home/hotels: $195
  • Arrival Transfer: Sydney Airport SYD to Sydney in Business Car: $104
  • Departure Transfer: Sydney to Sydney Airport SYD in Luxury Van: $115
  • Family Sydney Airport Departure Transfer: $87
  • From Sydney Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to Sydney: $67
  • From Sydney Hotels - Hotel Transfer to Airport: $195

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Amsterdam

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


  • Ride on Tram
    $3.48
  • Renting a Bike
    $16
  • One Hour Canal Cruise
    $11
  • Single Day Transit Pass
    $2.83
  • Transit Pass to Amsterdam Airport
    $3.70

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Amsterdam

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Amsterdam:

  • 1-15 pers Taxi/Bus Transfer Amsterdam Airport to 's-Hertogenbosch: $291
  • 1-15 persons Taxi or Bus Transfer Amsterdam Airport to Den Helder: $258
  • 1-15 persons Taxi or Bus Transfer Amsterdam Airport to Haarlem: $106
  • 1-15 persons Taxi or Bus Transfer Amsterdam Airport to Hilversum: $157
  • 1-15 persons Taxi or Bus Transfer Amsterdam Airport to IJmuiden: $123
  • 1-15 persons Taxi or Bus Transfer Amsterdam Airport to Leiden: $129
  • 1-15 persons Taxi or Bus Transfer Amsterdam Airport to Noordwijk: $129
  • 1-15 persons Taxi or Bus Transfer Amsterdam Airport to Utrecht: $249
  • 1-15 persons Taxi or Bus Transfer Amsterdam city to Airport: $110
  • 1-15 persons Taxi or Bus Transfer Amsterdam in Amsterdam City: $105
  • 1-15pers Taxi/Bus Transfer Amsterdam Airport to Rotterdam Airport: $202
  • AMS Schiphol Airport VIP Meet and Assist Pickup (with Hotel Private Transfer): $193

Is it cheaper to fly into Sydney or Amsterdam?

Prices for flights to both Amsterdam and Sydney 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
    Sydney $44
    Amsterdam $47
Typical Food Prices in Sydney

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


  • Tea
    $2.61
  • Lunch Special
    $9.77
  • Food/Drink Coogie Beach
    $9.77
  • Meat Pies
    $3.26

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sydney

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

  • VIVID Dinner Cruise with Complimentary Drink on Arrival: $36
  • Christmas in July Dinner Cruise on Sydney Harbour: $57
  • Harbor Sunset Cruise with Dinner: $58
  • Sydney Harbour: Tall Ship Vivid Dinner Cruise: $58
  • Vivid Tall Ships Dinner Cruise on Sydney Harbour: $60
  • Sydney Harbour: Latin Fiesta Dinner Cruise: $68
  • Latino Dinner Cruise on Sydney Harbour: $70
  • Harbour Dinner Cruise with 3, 4 or 6-Course Menu: $71
  • Tall Ship Harbour Twilight Dinner Cruise: $71
  • Sydney Harbour Tall Ship Twilight Dinner Cruise: $73
  • Sydney Harbour Sunset Dinner Cruise: $73
  • Sydney Harbour Dinner Cruise: $93

Typical Food Prices in Amsterdam

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


  • Afternoon Tea
    $6.53

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 : $8.28
  • Self-Guided Food Tour in De Pijp Neighbourhood: $14
  • Self-Guided Food Tour in De Jordaan Neighbourhood: $14
  • Evening Canal Cruise with Pizza and Drinks: $32
  • Amsterdam Evening Canal Cruise With Pizza and Drinks: $33
  • Food Tour Jordaan District: $36
  • Dinner Cruise with Fries Bitterballen and Drink from Amsterdam: $38
  • Pizza Cruise with Drinks: $41
  • Amsterdam Nightlife Ticket with A GOLD MENU Hard Rock Dinner: $52
  • Food Tour Amsterdam's Jordaan District Self-Guided: $52
  • 3-course Dinner in the Dark Amsterdam: $54
  • 3 Course Dinner in the Dark: $54

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Sydney $31
    Amsterdam $41
Typical Entertainment Prices in Sydney

Here are a few typical costs in Sydney for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Theatre Show
    $29
  • Sydney Tower Visit (for 2)
    $30
  • Blue Mountain Tour/Featherdale Park (for 2)
    $124
  • Powerhouse Museum
    $9.81

Tours and Activities in Sydney

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

  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $2.17
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.26
  • Sydney Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $3.31
  • Sydney Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Spirits of Sydney - Self Guided Ghost Tour of the Rocks Area: $10
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Australia: Tourist eSIM Data Plan: $12
  • Self-Guided Walking Tour with Audio Guide: $14
  • Secret Laneways Scavenger Hunt Adventure Game: $16
  • Unlock The Rocks Scavenger Hunt Adventure Game: $16
  • Australian National Maritime Museum: All-Inclusive Ticket: $16
  • Botanic Garden Self-Guided Adventure Hunt for Kids: $16

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
    $6.53
  • Entry for two to the Anne Frank House
    $19

Tours and Activities in Amsterdam

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

  • Amsterdam city centre historical walking tour: $1.09
  • Golden Age Canals Walking Tour: $1.09
  • Rude Bastards Tour of Amsterdam: $3.26
  • City Exploration Game and Walking Tour: $3.26
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.26
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Amsterdam: $3.30
  • Photo Tour in Amsterdam 2 Hours: $3.30
  • Free Walking Tour of Haunted Amsterdam: $3.31
  • Free walking tour of haunted Amsterdam: $4.34
  • Private Tour of Simonehoeve Cheese Farm and Clog Factory: $5.52
  • Private Walking Tour through the Streets of Amsterdam: $5.52
  • An Amsterdam Introduction: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of the City's Origins: $5.99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Sydney $15
    Amsterdam $26
Typical Alcohol Prices in Sydney

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Sydney:


  • Wine
    $10

Sample the Local Flavors in Sydney

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Sydney:

  • Night Out Pub Crawl with Local Guide: $29
  • Sydney Cellar Door - Old Vine Expressions Wine Tasting: $47
  • Private Wine Tour and Tasting: $55
  • Urban Winery Wine Tasting Tour with Cheese Platter: $55
  • Sydney Beer and Brewery Tour: $103
  • Brewery, Winery, and Distillery Tasting Tour: $111
  • Northern Beaches Brewery Tour and Tasting: $121
  • Hunter Valley: Wine Tour with 3 Tastings and Garden Lunch: $127
  • Hunter Valley Wine Tour from Sydney with Lunch and 3 Cellar Door Tastings: $131
  • Hunter Valley Wine Tasting + Lunch Guided Day Tour : $134
  • From Hunter Valley Wine Tour with Cheese Tasting: $140
  • From Hunter Valley Multi-Brewery Tour with Lunch: $147

Sample the Local Flavors in Amsterdam

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

  • Amsterdam Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $16
  • Amsterdam Private Self Guided Pub Crawl: $22
  • Original Pub Crawl Party with VIP Entrance: $26
  • Central Pub Crawl and Nightlife Experience: $27
  • Red Light District Pub Crawl: $27
  • Distillery Tour & Tasting at Spirited Union: $28
  • Leidseplein and Red Light Pub Crawl: 2 Night Pass: $31
  • Chateau Urban Wine Tasting and optional bites: $33
  • Original Amsterdam Pub Crawl: $33
  • Red Light District Tour | Pub Crawl Mystery: $38
  • Kings Night Ultimate Party Pub Crawl: $38
  • Red Light District and Local Pub Tour: $40


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Sydney and Amsterdam, we can see that Sydney is more expensive. And not only is Amsterdam much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Sydney is in Pacific 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 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 Sydney would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Sydney 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 Sydney Expensive? and Is Amsterdam Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Sydney or Amsterdam?

Sydney has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Amsterdam. When comparing the sizes of Sydney 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.


When is the best time to visit Sydney or Amsterdam?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Sydney is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Amsterdam has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Sydney or Amsterdam in the Summer?

Both Amsterdam and Sydney are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Sydney because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Amsterdam this time of year.

In January, Sydney is generally a little warmer than Amsterdamin July. Daily temperatures in Sydney average around 23°C (73°F), and Amsterdam fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

It's quite sunny in Amsterdam. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sydney. Sydney usually receives more sunshine than Amsterdam during summer. Sydney gets 236 hours of sunny skies, while Amsterdam receives 204 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Sydney. In January, Sydney usually receives more rain than Amsterdamin July. Sydney gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures January and July
    Sydney 23°C (73°F) 
    Amsterdam 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Sydney or Amsterdam in the Autumn?

Both Amsterdam and Sydney during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Sydney this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Amsterdam for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Sydney is much warmer than Amsterdam in the autumn. The daily temperature in Sydney averages around 19°C (65°F) in April, and Amsterdam fluctuates around 11°C (51°F)in October.

In the autumn, Sydney often gets more sunshine than Amsterdamin October. Sydney gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amsterdam receives 99 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sydney. Sydney usually gets more rain in April than Amsterdamin October. Sydney gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures April and October
    Sydney 19°C (65°F) 
    Amsterdam 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Sydney or Amsterdam in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Sydney and Amsterdam. Many travelers come to Sydney for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Amsterdam in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Amsterdam can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Sydney is much warmer than Amsterdam. Typically, the winter temperatures in Sydney in July average around 12°C (53°F), and Amsterdam averages at about 2°C (36°F)in January.

In Sydney, it's very sunny this time of the year. Sydney usually receives more sunshine than Amsterdam during winter. Sydney gets 208 hours of sunny skies, while Amsterdam receives 46 hours of full sun in the winter.

In July, Sydney usually receives less rain than Amsterdamin January. Sydney gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures July and January
    Sydney 12°C (53°F) 
    Amsterdam 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Sydney or Amsterdam in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Sydney as well as Amsterdam. Many visitors come to Sydney in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Amsterdam for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In October, Sydney is generally much warmer than Amsterdamin April. Daily temperatures in Sydney average around 18°C (64°F), and Amsterdam fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sydney this time of the year. In the spring, Sydney often gets more sunshine than Amsterdamin April. Sydney gets 240 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amsterdam receives 166 hours of full sun.

Sydney usually gets more rain in October than Amsterdamin April. Sydney gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures October and April
    Sydney 18°C (64°F) 
    Amsterdam 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Amsterdam and Sydney

Sydney Amsterdam
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 23°C (73°F) 116 mm (4.6 in) 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 23°C (73°F) 113 mm (4.4 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 21°C (70°F) 148 mm (5.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 19°C (65°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 15°C (60°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 128 mm (5 in) 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 12°C (53°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 13°C (55°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 20°C (67°F) 101 mm (4 in) 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 22°C (71°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)