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

Should you visit Tallinn or Amsterdam?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Tallinn 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.

Tallinn

Tallinn is a quaint, whimsical, and historical city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a canal-lined, party-oriented, and laid-back city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the live music, shopping, and museums.

Tallinn and Amsterdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tallinn or Amsterdam?

You'll generally find more things to do in Amsterdam than Tallinn. Amsterdam is bigger than Tallinn, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Amsterdam is better known for its nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Tallinn is more popular for its food, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere. Tallinn is well known for its well preserved old town and its active nightlife scene. Amsterdam is well known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. Also, Amsterdam is famous for The Rijksmuseum.

How is Tallinn different from Amsterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Tallinn and Amsterdam.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Tallinn can be an interesting and educational experience. There are beautiful historic churches, particularly in the city's old town. A highlight is the stunning Alexander Nevski Cathedral. You'll also find some unique museums around town as well as Toompea Castle.

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 Tallinn or Amsterdam? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tallinn 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 Tallinn. Food is affordable and hearty. Many dishes incorporate rye bread, pork, smoked fish, potatoes, or dairy products. You'll also find a lot of variation in dishes between seasons.

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 Tallinn or Amsterdam Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Tallinn is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

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.

Tallinn is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. As it's grown in popularity with tourists, the city has put itself on the map as a top party destination in Eastern Europe. There's an active bar and club scene, but there are also art venues and other creative activities for everyone.

Is Tallinn or Amsterdam Better for Music?

Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Tallinn is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Amsterdam. The city attracts its share of world renowned DJs and musicians. Popular music venues include Paradiso, De Melkweg, and Chicago Social Club.

Tallinn is not a live music destination.

Is Tallinn or Amsterdam Better for its Old Town?

Tallinn is an unbeatable place for its old town. Also, Amsterdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

With a famous historical old-town, Tallinn offers plenty to see. The city's medieval old town is at the heart of it's tourist attractions. The Gothic architecture, local restaurants, and cobblestone streets give the city a fairytale charm.

Amsterdam is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old city center is one of the best preserved in Europe. It's enclosed by canals and has many historic churches, plazas, and buildings.

Is the Shopping Better in Tallinn or Amsterdam?

Shoppers can find a variety of superb stores in both Tallinn and Amsterdam.

Tallinn is well-known for its shopping. There's a mix of quirky shops and recognizable brands around town. Old town is a popular shopping area, as is nearby Kalamaja. Visitors enjoy picking up marzipan, local crafts, and unique art.

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.

Is Tallinn or Amsterdam Better for Families?

Tallinn is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Tallinn. Your kids will feel like they stepped into a fairytale in this beautiful city. It has countless museums including an open air museum and a zoo. There's also nearby Pirita Beach, where you and your kids can enjoy ice cream in a seaside setting.

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 Tallinn or Amsterdam Better for Couples?

Tallinn and Amsterdam are both superb to visit as a couple.

Tallinn makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Filled with gardens, romantic walks, and impressive views, this city makes for a great couple's getaway. Base yourself in the city's beautiful old town and dine in one of the many local restaurants. There are also nice hotels around town that are great for couples.

Couples visit Amsterdam frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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 Tallinn or Amsterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tallinn and Amsterdam are both amazing destinations for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Tallinn is extremely popular for backpackers. The city is both affordable and unique, which is perfect for travelers on a budget. There are plenty of hostels around town as well as casual places to grab a cheap bite to eat.

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.

Is Tallinn or Amsterdam Better for Students?

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

Tallinn is popular with students. International students appreciate the vibrant atmosphere and the affordable options around town.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

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

Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Tallinn is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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.

The public transit in Tallinn can get you to most places easily. There are buses trolleys and trams around town.

Is Tallinn or Amsterdam a more walkable city?

Tallinn and Amsterdam are amazing when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Tallinn. The city is compact and easily explored on foot, particularly in the most touristy areas.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Amsterdam or Tallinn?

How long in Tallinn or Amsterdam?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Amsterdam than Tallinn. 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.

One day in Tallinn or Amsterdam?

You'll find shopping and museums around the quaint city of Tallinn. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Because Amsterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Tallinn or Amsterdam?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical destination of Tallinn. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Because Amsterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Amsterdam has to offer.

Five days in Tallinn or Amsterdam?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the whimsical city of Tallinn. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Amsterdam is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Amsterdam has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Tallinn or Amsterdam?

Tallinn is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Amsterdam. Because Amsterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

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

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

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

Which is Bigger, Tallinn or Amsterdam?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 88% larger than the population of Tallinn. When comparing the sizes of Tallinn 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 Tallinn or Amsterdam?

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 Tallinn or Amsterdam in the Summer?

Both Amsterdam and Tallinn during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Tallinn because of 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.

Tallinn is around the same temperature as Amsterdam in the summer. The daily temperature in Tallinn averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Amsterdam fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

In Amsterdam, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Tallinn. In the summer, Tallinn often gets more sunshine than Amsterdam. Tallinn gets 279 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amsterdam receives 204 hours of full sun.

Tallinn usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Amsterdam. Tallinn gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tallinn or Amsterdam in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Tallinn and Amsterdam. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Tallinn 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.

In the autumn, Tallinn is much colder than Amsterdam. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tallinn in October average around 7°C (44°F), and Amsterdam averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Tallinn usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Amsterdam during autumn. Tallinn gets 92 hours of sunny skies, while Amsterdam receives 99 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Tallinn usually receives around the same amount of rain as Amsterdam. Tallinn gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Tallinn or Amsterdam in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Tallinn as well as Amsterdam. Many travelers come to Tallinn 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. Be prepared for some very cold days in Tallinn. In January, Tallinn is generally much colder than Amsterdam. Daily temperatures in Tallinn average around -5°C (22°F), and Amsterdam fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Tallinn often gets less sunshine than Amsterdam. Tallinn gets 25 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amsterdam receives 46 hours of full sun.

Tallinn usually gets less rain in January than Amsterdam. Tallinn gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tallinn or Amsterdam in the Spring?

Both Amsterdam and Tallinn are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Tallinn in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Amsterdam for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Tallinn can get quite cold in the spring. Tallinn is much colder than Amsterdam in the spring. The daily temperature in Tallinn averages around 4°C (39°F) in April, and Amsterdam fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Tallinn usually receives more sunshine than Amsterdam during spring. Tallinn gets 186 hours of sunny skies, while Amsterdam receives 166 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Tallinn usually receives less rain than Amsterdam. Tallinn gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Amsterdam and Tallinn