A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Leiden vs. New York City for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Leiden or New York City?

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 Leiden and New York City can help you decide which place is right for you.

Leiden

Leiden is a historic, cultural, and scholarly city. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Leiden travel costs.

New York City

New York City is a one-of-a-kind, vibrant, and energetic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. New York City offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music. See New York City travel costs.

Leiden and New York City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Leiden or New York City?

You'll generally find more things to do in New York City than Leiden. New York City is bigger than Leiden, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. New York City is more touristy than Leiden and is known for its high-reaching skyscrapers, iconic landmarks, world-class theater scene, and endless energy. Also, New York City is famous for The Statue of Liberty. Leiden is well known for its many museums and renowned university.

How is Leiden different from New York City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Leiden or New York City?

New York City is a must-visit destination for its museums and history. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, New York City has many famous sights for visitors. The sights and museums around the city are too numerous to list, but some of the most famous include the Statue of Liberty, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. This is a city that is filled with iconic landmarks and you could spend weeks here and still not see it all.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Leiden can be an interesting and educational experience. There are a huge number of museums around town. Some are affiliated with the museum, while others are not. Some of the favorites include the National Museum of Antiquities (Rijksmuseum van Oudheden), Naturalis Biodiversity Center, The Boerhaave Museum, the Corpus Museum, and the National Ethnological Museum.

Is Leiden or New York City Better for Theater?

New York City is a must-visit destination for its shows and theatre. However, Leiden is not a theatre destination.

The theater scene in New York City is world-class. Visiting Broadway is a quintessential NYC experience. Whether you enjoy the theater or simply want to experience something new, seeing a Broadway show is a true bucket list activity.

Leiden is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Leiden or New York City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

New York City is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

New York City has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city has a diverse variety of restaurants, with everything from local dives to Michelin star options. There are many neighborhoods that are notable for their ethnic cuisine, particularly Little Italy and Chinatown. Quintessential NYC dishes include NYC pizza, NYC hot dogs, bagels, and Chinese dim sum.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Leiden makes for a great culinary experience. There's a diverse food scene with many international flavors such as Japanese, Chinese, and French. The cafe culture influences the culinary scene and you'll find many cozy cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a bite to eat.

Is Leiden or New York City Better for Nightlife?

New York City is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

New York City is a world class party destination. Known as the city that never sleeps, you can be assured that NYC has some of the best nightlife in the world. There are world class bars and clubs, but also local venues that have a more relaxed atmosphere. Several famous clubs include Paul's Cocktail Lounge, Le Bain, and Avant Gardner.

Leiden has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The large student population means that there is a good nightlife scene. There are a variety of bars, pubs, and cafes where you can enjoy a drink, with options ranging from cozy, intimate spots to larger, more vibrant venues. The Oude Markt area, with its charming historic setting, is a hotspot for nightlife, offering a mix of traditional Dutch bars and international-themed pubs.

Is Leiden or New York City Better for Music?

New York City is a must-visit destination for its music scene. However, Leiden is not a live music destination.

New York City has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Popular music venues include Music Hall of Williamsburg, Radio City Music Hall, Beacon Theatre, and Forest Hills Stadium.

Leiden is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Leiden or New York City?

New York City is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to New York City specifically to go shopping. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Head for Fifth Avenue for high end shopping or check out any of the many street markets for local items. New York is known for its many flea markets where you can find vintage items at a good price. And if you're looking to pick up a souvenir shirt or knick knack, there are plenty of souvenir shops around town as well.

Leiden is a great destination for shopping. There are a mix of unique boutiques, international brands, and charming local stores. The Breestraat and Nieuwe Rijn are popular shopping streets, and they're lined with a variety of shops selling everything from fashion and accessories to books, art, and antiques. The city also has several markets, including a weekly Saturday market near the Pieterskerk, where you can find fresh produce, flowers, and vintage items.

Is Leiden or New York City More Beautiful?

New York City is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Leiden is not a destination known for its beauty.

New York City offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The beauty of the skyline at night or the views from the top of the Empire State Building will take your breath away.

Leiden is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Leiden or New York City Better for Families?

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Leiden or New York City.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Leiden. The town has a mix of educational, cultural, and fun activities for all ages. There are many family-friendly museums like Naturalis Biodiversity Center, where kids can explore dinosaurs and wildlife, and the National Museum of Antiquities, which brings history to life. There's also the Corpus Museum, which takes visitors on a unique, interactive journey through the human body.

New York City is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has many activities for kids of all ages including world class museums, beautifully designed playgrounds, and theater shows designed just for young ones. There are many kid-friendly restaurants as well and older kids will enjoy visiting the iconic landmarks in this world-class city.

Is Leiden or New York City Better for Couples?

New York City is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, New York City has plenty to offer. From a beautiful carriage ride through Central Park, to a romantic river cruise at night, there is an endless list of unique activities that couples can enjoy in the city. Whether you're interested in theater, the arts, music, or nightlife, this city has it all.

Leiden is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy charming towns and world class museums will enjoy their time here. The town also has picturesque canals, historic bridges, and cozy street cafes. Couples can explore places like the Hortus Botanicus, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the Netherlands, or enjoy a quiet moment in the scenic Leidse Hout Park.

Is Leiden or New York City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

New York City is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit New York City. It isn't a particularly budget-friendly destination, but it does get its share of backpackers, so you'll find a nice list of hostels and affordable hangouts that are perfect for the backpacker crowd. This is probably one of the most popular cities for backpackers in the entire United States.

It's common for backpackers to visit Leiden. The city offers affordable accommodations, including hostels and budget-friendly hotels, as well as reasonably priced eateries serving Dutch classics and international cuisine. Many of Leiden’s attractions, like its historic canals, charming streets, and open-air markets, can be enjoyed for free.

Is Leiden or New York City Better for Students?

New York City is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Students come from all over the world to visit New York City. The city has a diverse population, and international students will feel right at home here exploring the city. There are also plenty of major universities including NYU, Columbia University, and Cornell University.

Leiden is a great city to visit as a student. It feels like a university town and it's home to Leiden University, the oldest university in the Netherlands. The university is known for its academic excellence and vibrant student community. The town also has a young atmosphere with plenty of affordable cafes, bars, and cultural events that influence the student life. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate by bike, and the abundance of libraries, study spaces, and museums provides ample resources for learning and inspiration. Housing can be difficult to find though.

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

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

New York City has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The city has one of the largest subway systems in the world. There's also an elaborate bus system, ferry system, and yellow taxis all around town.

You'll find some public transit in Leiden, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The Leiden Central Station is the main hub for trains, which connect the city to other towns throughout the country. Around town there are buses that are reliable and convenient.

Is Leiden or New York City a more walkable city?

New York City is a must-visit destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in New York City. The majority of the neighborhoods in Manhattan are very walkable and easy to explore on foot. Most people prefer not to drive here as it can be overwhelming and chaotic.

Leiden is very walkable. The city is compact and easy to navigate on foot, with many of its attractions, cafes, shops, and historical sites located within walking distance of each other.

For even more information, also check out Is Leiden Worth Visiting? and Is New York City Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in New York City or Leiden?

How long in Leiden or New York City?

Both Leiden and New York City have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in New York City than in Leiden. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Leiden, and 3-7 days is enough time in New York City.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in New York City than Leiden 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 New York City.

One day in Leiden or New York City?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Leiden. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

New York City is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Leiden or New York City?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Leiden. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

New York City is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Leiden or New York City?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural destination of Leiden. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days 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's hard to know how much time to spend in New York City. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. 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 Leiden or New York City?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Leiden. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

New York City is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Leiden and New York City, we can see that New York City is more expensive. And not only is Leiden much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Leiden is in Europe and New York City is in North America, 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 Leiden would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Leiden 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 New York City would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in New York City than you might in Leiden.

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

Which is Bigger, Leiden or New York City?

New York City has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Leiden. When comparing the sizes of Leiden and New York City, 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 Leiden or New York City?

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 Leiden or New York City in the Summer?

Both New York City and Leiden are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Leiden in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to New York City for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Leiden is much colder than New York City. Typically, the summer temperatures in Leiden in July average around 17°C (62°F), and New York City averages at about 77°F (25°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in New York City. In July, Leiden usually receives less rain than New York City. Leiden gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while New York City receives 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Leiden or New York City in the Autumn?

Both New York City and Leiden during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Leiden for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to New York City because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Leiden is generally cooler than New York City. Daily temperatures in Leiden average around 11°C (51°F), and New York City fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

Leiden usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as New York City. Leiden gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while New York City receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Leiden or New York City in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Leiden and New York City. The winter months attract visitors to Leiden because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to New York City this time of year.

It's quite cold in New York City in the winter. The weather in Leiden can be very cold. Leiden is much warmer than New York City in the winter. The daily temperature in Leiden averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and New York City fluctuates around 31°F (-1°C).

In January, Leiden usually receives less rain than New York City. Leiden gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while New York City receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Leiden or New York City in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Leiden as well as New York City. Also, many travelers come to New York City for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Leiden is cooler than New York City. Typically, the spring temperatures in Leiden in April average around 8°C (46°F), and New York City averages at about 52°F (11°C).

Leiden usually gets less rain in April than New York City. Leiden gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while New York City receives 3.8 inches (98 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for New York City and Leiden