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

Should you visit Amsterdam or Queenstown?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Amsterdam or Queenstown, 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.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a laid-back, scenic, and historic 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.

Queenstown

Queenstown is a bustling, active, and adventure-filled city. The beauty of Queenstown is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, skiing, and nightlife. See Queenstown travel costs.

Amsterdam and Queenstown: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Queenstown?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Amsterdam. Although Amsterdam and Queenstown are popular destinations, Amsterdam has more sights and attractions for tourists. Amsterdam is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, music, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Queenstown attracts visitors for its skiing, food, and hiking. Amsterdam is more touristy than Queenstown and is known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Rijksmuseum. Queenstown is famous for its world class skiing, adrenaline-filled adventure sports, and stunning mountain scenery.

How is Amsterdam different from Queenstown?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Amsterdam or Queenstown Better for Skiing?

Queenstown is an unbeatable place for winter skiing. However, Amsterdam is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Queenstown is among the best in the world. There are four ski areas that are near the city, and many consider these among the best ski fields in New Zealand. The ski season runs from June until October and the skiing is world class.

Amsterdam is not a skiing destination.

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

Amsterdam is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Queenstown is not a good city for its museums and history.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Amsterdam. The city has a number of sights and museums including the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Royal Palace. The world renowned Rijksmuseum is a must see for any art enthusiast. There are also many smaller, lesser known museums that are well worth a visit.

While most people don't head to Queenstown specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. People head to this city for its amazing outdoor activities, but you won't find much if you're looking for museums. You can check out the Lakes District Museum though.

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

Queenstown 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, Queenstown is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Located in the heart of the Otago wine region, this city has many award-winning restaurants. Local dishes, vegan cafes, and international flavors all make for a cosmopolitan and world class dining scene.

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 Amsterdam or Queenstown Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Queenstown 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.

Queenstown has a large number of nightlife venues. This cosmopolitan town has some of the best nightlife in the country. There are laid back pubs, trendy cocktail bars, and live music venues that make for a fun night out.

Is Amsterdam or Queenstown Better for Music?

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

Queenstown is not a live music destination.

Is Amsterdam or Queenstown Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Queenstown does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Amsterdam. The old city center is one of the best preserved in Europe. It's enclosed by canals and has many historic churches, plazas, and buildings.

Queenstown does not have a historic old town.

Is Amsterdam or Queenstown Better for Hiking?

Queenstown is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Amsterdam is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Queenstown draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The city is ideally located near some of the country's best hiking. There are walks through beech forests, along rugged mountains, and to stunning views. Several of the Great Walks are in the area as well, but if you're looking for something a little simpler, then there are many options also.

Amsterdam is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Queenstown?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Queenstown and Amsterdam.

Amsterdam is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Queenstown. It's a bustling city with designer brands and boutique shopping. There are also souvenir shops and retail outlets.

Is Amsterdam or Queenstown More Beautiful?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Queenstown is not as famous, but is still a good city 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 Queenstown is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. With its mountains and surrounding beauty, this is a breathtakingly beautiful city.

Is Amsterdam or Queenstown Better for Families?

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

Queenstown is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will enjoy the Queenstown cable car and the Skyline Gondola. After a ride on the gondola, you can even take the luge back down! The city also offers lake cruises, family-friendly farm tours, boat tours, and kayaking.

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 Amsterdam or Queenstown Better for Couples?

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

Queenstown has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The city is known for its adrenaline-filled adventure activities and couples who enjoy a thrill will appreciate the fun. There are also hot springs, boat cruises, and wine tours in the area. One of the most romantic activities is dinner at the Skyline.

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 Amsterdam or Queenstown Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam and Queenstown are world-class places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit 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.

A large number of backpackers visit Queenstown, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. With its thrill-seeking activities and nearby skiing, this is a great backpacker destination year round.

Is Amsterdam or Queenstown Better for Students?

Queenstown is well known for students. However, Amsterdam is not popular with students.

Queenstown is a great city to visit as a student. There are excellent universities in the area as well as fun activities and a lively energy that students enjoy.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

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

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Queenstown 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.

Queenstown has some public transit options. There's a decent bus system that travels around town.

Is Amsterdam or Queenstown a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Queenstown 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.

Queenstown is a very walkable city. In town, many of the sights and activities can be reached on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Queenstown or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Queenstown?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Amsterdam than Queenstown 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 Amsterdam or Queenstown?

When visiting Amsterdam, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Queenstown. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.

A weekend in Amsterdam or Queenstown?

When visiting Amsterdam, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

You'll find shopping and skiing around the outdoorsy destination of Queenstown. 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 city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Amsterdam or Queenstown?

Amsterdam, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the spirited city of Queenstown. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Amsterdam or Queenstown?

Amsterdam is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Queenstown is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Queenstown, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam, The Best Bicycle Tours in New Zealand, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Queenstown?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Queenstown. When comparing the sizes of Amsterdam and Queenstown, 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.