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

Should you visit York or Amsterdam?

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

Should I visit York 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.

York

York is a medieval, fanciful, and historic city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

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 here as well. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and shopping.

York and Amsterdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in York or Amsterdam?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Amsterdam than York. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Amsterdam is very popular for its nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while York attracts visitors for its food and historical sights. Amsterdam is more touristy than York and is known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Rijksmuseum. York is famous for its markets, old town, and its many ghost tours.

How is York different from Amsterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both York and Amsterdam have very good landmarks and museums for visitors.

York offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Popular museums include the York Castle Museum, the National Railway Museum, Castle Howard, and JORVIK Viking Centre.

Many visitors head to Amsterdam specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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 York or Amsterdam? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

York is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, York is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Meat pies, fudge, and fish and chips are just some of the culinary experiences you'll find here. The Shambles Market has vendors that sell a wide variety of cuisines. There are also food trucks throughout town that offer affordable and delicious meal options.

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 York or Amsterdam Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

People head to Amsterdam just to party. 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.

York has a large number of nightlife venues. The young population and thriving tourist scene means there's no shortage of nightlife around town. Check out a pub or music venue to experience everything that city has to offer.

Is York or Amsterdam Better for Music?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for live music. However, York 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.

York is not a live music destination.

Is York or Amsterdam Better for its Old Town?

York 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, York offers plenty to see. The charming old town is filled with shops and restaurants. There are street performers, fudge shops, and all of the Harry Potter merchandise that a person could need.

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 York or Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is a well-known place for shopping. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city 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 York. The old town has many great candy stores that sell fudge and other local specialties. There are also Harry Potter stores that sell potions, t-shirts, games, and more.

Is York or Amsterdam Better for Families?

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

York is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. The city does an amazing job bringing history to life in a way that kids will enjoy. The JORVIK Viking Centre transports visitors back in time and introduces them to a fully immersive viking experience. The York Dungeon is great for older kids as long as they don't scare easily. Actors and special effects offer a terrifying and entertaining visit through a York dungeon. Harry Potter fans will enjoy exploring the potion shops and broomstick stores along the iconic Shambles, which is said to be an inspiration for J.K. Rowling's Diagon Alley.

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 York or Amsterdam Better for Couples?

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

York is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples can explore the history and entertainment venues that make York an enjoyable destination. There are museums, restaurants, and outdoor markets that make this a great weekend getaway.

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 York or Amsterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Many backpackers visit York. There are a few hostels around town as well as nightlife venues and entertainment spots that appeal to backpackers and younger travelers. For great and affordable food, grab a meal at one of the many food trucks around town.

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

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Amsterdam can get you around easily. 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.

York has some public transit options. There is a reliable and efficient bus system around town.

Is York or Amsterdam a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

York is a somewhat walkable place. The old town has many pedestrian streets that are easily explored on food.

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

Should I spend more time in Amsterdam or York?

How long in York or Amsterdam?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Amsterdam than York. 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 York 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.

One day in York or Amsterdam?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of York. 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.

Amsterdam is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in York or Amsterdam?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the medieval destination of York. 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.

Amsterdam is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in York or Amsterdam?

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

Amsterdam is a party-oriented big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in York or Amsterdam?

York 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.

Amsterdam is a party-oriented city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from London, The Best 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh, 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 York and Amsterdam, we can see that Amsterdam is more expensive. And not only is York much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to York would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in York 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 York.

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

Which is Bigger, York or Amsterdam?

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

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit York or Amsterdam in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both York and Amsterdam. Many travelers come to York for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Amsterdam in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Amsterdam this time of the year. York usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Amsterdam during summer. York gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Amsterdam receives 204 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, York usually receives less rain than Amsterdam. York gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit York or Amsterdam in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to York as well as Amsterdam. Many visitors come to York in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Amsterdam for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

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

In the autumn, York often gets more sunshine than Amsterdam. York gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amsterdam receives 99 hours of full sun.

York usually gets less rain in October than Amsterdam. York gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit York or Amsterdam in the Winter?

Both Amsterdam and York are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to York for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

York usually receives more sunshine than Amsterdam during winter. York gets 61 hours of sunny skies, while Amsterdam receives 46 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, York usually receives less rain than Amsterdam. York gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit York or Amsterdam in the Spring?

Both Amsterdam and York during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Amsterdam this time of year.

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

In the spring, York often gets less sunshine than Amsterdam. York gets 151 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amsterdam receives 166 hours of full sun.

York usually gets less rain in April than Amsterdam. York gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Amsterdam and York