A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Dover vs. Lisse for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Dover or Lisse?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Dover and Lisse can help you decide which place is right for you.

Dover

Dover is a natural, breathtaking, and iconic town. Many visitors also come to Dover because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the hiking, museums, and food. See Dover travel costs.

Lisse

Lisse is a stunning, colorful, and picturesque town. You'll find world class beauty in Lisse as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Lisse travel costs.

Dover and Lisse: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Keukenhof Gardens


Is there more to do in Dover or Lisse?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lisse. Although Dover and Lisse are both popular with visitors, Lisse has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lisse is more popular for its nightlife and shopping, while Dover is known for its hiking. Lisse is more touristy than Dover and is popular for its stunning flowers and iconic tulip fields. It is also home to the Keukenhof Gardens. Dover is popular for the famous White Cliffs of Dover as well as the ferry connection to mainland Europe.

How is Dover different from Lisse?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Dover or Lisse?

Dover
Lisse

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Dover or Lisse.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Dover. Aside from the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, there is the Dover Castle, the South Foreland Lighthouse, and the Grand Shaft.

Lisse is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a handful of museums in the area, like the Museum de Zwarte Tulp (Museum of the Black Tulip), which showcases the history and art of the Dutch flower-growing industry, including exhibits on tulips, bulbs, and floral culture. And, of course, there's the Keukenhof Gardens, which is the main draw to the area during the spring season and one of the most popular attractions in the Netherlands.


Is the Food Better in Dover or Lisse? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dover
Lisse

Foodies will find both Dover and Lisse both to be good destinations.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Dover area. The town has a growing food scene that includes waterfront restaurants and local dishes. Find a restaurant with a view to make sure you take full advantage of the setting.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Lisse. The town has a variety of food options, from traditional Dutch snacks to international cuisine. Local cafes and restaurants often serve classic Dutch dishes, such as poffertjes (mini pancakes) and bitterballen (fried meatballs), perfect for a quick bite or a relaxed meal. In Keukenhof Gardens you'll find food stalls, trucks, and a cafe, but they can get crowded during peak times.

Is Dover or Lisse Better for Nightlife?

Dover
Lisse

Lisse is very good for its evening party scene. However, Dover is not a good town for nightlife.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Lisse. Most people don't think about nightlife when they visit town but there's a surprising number of thinks to do like cozy bars and charming cafes. Visitors can enjoy live music, great drinks, and a friendly atmosphere, especially in the town's central areas.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Dover. The nightlife has a relaxed atmosphere with wine bars and microbreweries.

Is Dover or Lisse Better for Hiking?

Dover
Lisse

Dover is great for hiking. However, Lisse is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Dover for the hiking trails. There are many beautiful countryside walks that take you through the rolling hills and along the iconic white cliffs. Some of the best hikes in the area include The England Coast Path, The North Downs Way Saxon Shore Way.

Lisse is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Dover or Lisse?

Dover
Lisse

Lisse is very good for its shopping areas. However, Dover is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Lisse to go shopping. The town offers a range of shopping opportunities, especially in its charming town center. You’ll find boutique stores, gift shops, and specialty shops selling local products, such as Dutch cheeses, flowers, and souvenirs.

Dover is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Dover or Lisse More Beautiful?

Dover
Lisse

You'll find a similar quality of world-class scenery and beauty in both Dover and Lisse.

You'll find world class beauty in Dover as well. The stunning White Cliffs of Dover are an iconic sight that is not to be missed.

Lisse is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Most visitors come for the Keukenhof Gardens, which are a breathtaking spectacle, renowned for their vibrant and meticulously arranged displays of millions of tulips and other flowers. The gardens are designed with picturesque pathways, tranquil ponds, and themed flower beds, making it feel like a living painting in every corner.

Is Dover or Lisse Better for Families?

Dover
Lisse

You'll find good kid-friendly activities in either Dover or Lisse.

Dover is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a few kid-friendly museums like the Dover Transport Museum and the Dover Castle. Also make sure you check out the South Foreland Lighthouse.

Lisse is a family-friendly town. The Keukenhof Gardens has a few things to keep the kids entertained, like a play area and boat rides. Some kids will also enjoy seeing the millions of colorful tulips and other flowers. For a more interactive experience, families can head to the Flowerstrip, where children can explore local farms and see how flowers are grown. Also near town is Lisse is the Duinrell theme park, which has thrilling rides and a water park that’s perfect for a family day out.


Is Dover or Lisse Better for Couples?

Dover
Lisse

Both Dover and Lisse are great destinations to visit as a couple.

Dover is a very popular place to visit for couples. The White Cliffs of Dover are an iconic sight and perfect for a romantic trip away. Also make sure you check out St. Margaret's Bay Beach and the Kearsney Abbey Gardens.

Lisse makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy this area, especially during the spring when the Keukenhof Gardens come alive with vibrant tulip fields and flower displays. There are also boat rides through the nearby canals, surrounded by beautiful countryside. A visit to the nearby Keukenhof Castle provides a charming atmosphere, with its elegant gardens and tea room. perfect for relaxing together. Couples can also explore the local flower fields by bike.

Is Dover or Lisse Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dover
Lisse

Both Dover and Lisse are good destinations for backpackers.

Dover is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find several nice hostels to choose from in the town.

It's common for backpackers to visit Lisse. The entrance fee to Keukenhof Gardens can be a bit pricey, but there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy nearby, like cycling through the beautiful tulip fields or exploring the nearby countryside. Budget accommodations, such as hostels or guesthouses, can be found in Lisse or in nearby towns like Leiden, offering affordable options for travelers.

Is Dover or Lisse Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Dover
Lisse

Lisse is very good for its public transit. However, Dover is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

Lisse has a few public transit options. There are buses that travel from Schiphol Airport and elsewhere in the country to Keukenhof Gardens. It's best to book your tickets in advance.

Public transit is mostly limited in Dover. There are public buses through the district.


Is Dover or Lisse a more walkable city?

Dover
Lisse

Dover and Lisse both are good when exploring on foot.

Dover is a somewhat walkable town. You can wander around the countryside, but prepare for rolling hills and great views.

Lisse is somewhat walkable. Many visitors bike through the tulip fields outside of the Keukenhof Gardens. You could walk, but you'll cover more ground with a bicycle.

For even more information, also check out Is Dover Worth Visiting? and Is Lisse Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lisse or Dover?

How long in Dover or Lisse?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Dover or Lisse to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Dover than Lisse because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Dover, and 1-2 days is enough time in Lisse.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisse than Dover 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 Lisse.


  • How many days in Dover or Lisse? Ideal Length of Stay
    Dover 2-4 
    Lisse 1-2

One day in Dover or Lisse?

In Dover, many people enjoy the food and museums that this natural destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Lisse, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this picturesque destination offers. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Dover or Lisse?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dover. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lisse. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


Five days in Dover or Lisse?

Dover is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the destination of Dover. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Lisse is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Lisse. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Dover or Lisse?

You'll find museums and food around the rustic destination of Dover. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find food and shopping around the colorful destination of Lisse. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Netherlands.


Which place is cheaper, Lisse or Dover?

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 Dover is £152, while the average daily cost in Lisse is £156. 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 Dover and Lisse in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Dover £62
    Lisse £69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Dover £124
    Lisse £138
Compare Hotels in Dover and Lisse

Looking for a hotel in Dover or Lisse? 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 Dover


Hotels in Lisse


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: Dover Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Dover £39
    Lisse £20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dover

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dover:

  • Dover Port to London Gatwick Airport One Way Transfer: $273
  • Door to Door Private Transfer from Dover to London: $263
  • Private transfer from Dover to London hotel or airport: $225
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to London Airport (LHR): $204
  • Private Transfer from Dover Port to London Gatwick Airport (LGW): $204
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to Horley city hotels: $204
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to London City Hotels: $204
  • Dover Cruise Port→London Heathrow Airport: Private Transfer: $179
  • Private Transfers from Heathrow Airport to Dover Cruise Port: $175

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lisse

Also for Lisse, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Haarlem to cruise port in Amsterdam: $84
  • From The Hague: One-Way Private Transfer to/from Keukenhof: $294
  • From Rotterdam: One-Way Private Transfer to/from Keukenhof: $341

Is it cheaper to fly into Dover or Lisse?

Prices for flights to both Lisse and Dover 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
    Dover £66
    Lisse £71

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dover

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

  • Canterbury Food Tour: Discover Culinary Delights: $150

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lisse

For Lisse, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Haarlem's Food-steps: A self-guided Food Tour: $43
  • Guided Food Tour Haarlem (min. 2 persons) - Many local tastings : $106

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Dover £20
    Lisse £26

Tours and Activities in Dover

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Dover are as follows:

  • Canterbury’s Royal Heritage: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Canterbury: Self Guided Walking Tour & Interactive Treasure Hunt: $35
  • Dover & White Cliffs Tour; Canterbury, Coastal Towns & Castles: $225
  • Dover Castle Admission Ticket: $34
  • Dover Shore Excursion:Post-Cruise Tour to London via Canterbury and Leeds Castle: $211
  • Folkestone Private 2 Hour Walking Tour with a Blue Badge Guide: $239
  • From Dover Cruise Ship; Grand Tour of White Cliffs Country & back: $116
  • Howletts Day Ticket: $35
  • Official Canterbury Guided Walking Tour - 11.00 Tour: $20
  • Official Canterbury Guided Walking Tour - 14.00 Tour: $20
  • Private Guided Tour of Canterbury City and Cathedral: $291
  • Private Guided Walking Tour of Canterbury: $163

Tours and Activities in Lisse

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Lisse.

  • Haarlem 2-Hour Walking Tour | Discover The City With A Local: $3.57
  • Haarlem Battle Quest: Self-Guided City Defense Adventure: $5.95
  • Pub Trail Haarlem: an adventure full of surprises: $13
  • Cultural and Historical Audio guided walking tour Tour of Haarlem: $16
  • Haarlem: 50 minutes Boat Cruise: $22
  • Leiden: Windmill and Countryside Cruise near Keukenhof: $23
  • Haarlem Open Canal Tour with a real live guide: $23
  • 90 minutes Self-Guided Walking tour with puzzles in Haarlem: $23
  • Drive-it-Yourself Summer Flower GPS Audio Tour: $29
  • Self-Drive Electric Car Dune and Beach Audio Tour: $29
  • 2 Hours Walking Tour Throughout History & Highlights of Haarlem: $29
  • Discover Haarlem with a self-guided Outside Escape city game tour: $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Dover £7.71
    Lisse £20

Sample the Local Flavors in Dover

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

  • Private Wine Tour of Whitstable: $150
  • Full Day Wine Tour in Sussex and Kent: $204


When comparing the travel costs between Dover and Lisse, we can see that Lisse is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Dover or Lisse?

Dover has a larger population, and is about 27% larger than the population of Lisse. When comparing the sizes of Dover and Lisse, 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 Dover or Lisse?

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 Dover or Lisse in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Dover as well as Lisse. Most visitors come to Dover for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Lisse because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Dover is generally around the same temperature as Lisse. Daily temperatures in Dover average around 17°C (63°F), and Lisse fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisse. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Dover this time of the year. In the summer, Dover often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lisse. Dover gets 212 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lisse receives 204 hours of full sun.

Dover usually gets less rain in July than Lisse. Dover gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Lisse receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Dover 17°C (63°F) 
    Lisse 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Dover or Lisse in the Autumn?

Both Lisse and Dover are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Dover because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Lisse this time of year.

Dover is a little warmer than Lisse in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dover averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Lisse fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Dover usually receives more sunshine than Lisse during autumn. Dover gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Lisse receives 99 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Dover usually receives less rain than Lisse. Dover gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Lisse receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Dover 12°C (54°F) 
    Lisse 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Dover or Lisse in the Winter?

Both Lisse and Dover during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Dover this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Lisse for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Lisse. It's quite cold in Dover in the winter. In the winter, Dover is much warmer than Lisse. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dover in January average around 4°C (40°F), and Lisse averages at about 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Dover often gets more sunshine than Lisse. Dover gets 57 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lisse receives 46 hours of full sun.

Dover usually gets less rain in January than Lisse. Dover gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Lisse receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Dover 4°C (40°F) 
    Lisse 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Dover or Lisse in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Dover and Lisse. Many travelers come to Dover for the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Lisse in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Dover is generally a little warmer than Lisse. Daily temperatures in Dover average around 9°C (47°F), and Lisse fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Dover usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Lisse during spring. Dover gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Lisse receives 166 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Dover usually receives less rain than Lisse. Dover gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Lisse receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Dover 9°C (47°F) 
    Lisse 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Lisse and Dover

Dover Lisse
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 9°C (47°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 17°C (63°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)