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

Should you visit Lisse or Glencoe?

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

Should I visit Lisse or Glencoe? 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.

Lisse

Lisse is a stunning, colorful, and picturesque town. The famous beauty of Lisse is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Lisse travel costs.

Glencoe

Glencoe is a picturesque, natural, and serene village. Many visitors also come to Glencoe because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the food and hiking. See Glencoe travel costs.

Lisse and Glencoe: Pros and Cons

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
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Lisse or Glencoe?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lisse. Although Lisse and Glencoe are both popular with visitors, Lisse has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lisse is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and shopping, while Glencoe is known for its hiking. Lisse is more touristy than Glencoe and is popular for its stunning flowers and iconic tulip fields. It is also home to the Keukenhof Gardens. Glencoe is popular for its mountaineering, hiking, and beautiful natural setting.

How is Lisse different from Glencoe?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lisse
Glencoe

Lisse is a town with good options for its museums and landmarks. However, Glencoe does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Lisse. 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.

Glencoe does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Lisse
Glencoe

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

Lisse has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Glencoe area. Local specialties include seafood and pub food. You'll also find plenty of whisky and local beer. There are a variety of dining options with local pubs alongside fine dining restaurants.

Is Lisse or Glencoe Better for Nightlife?

Lisse
Glencoe

Lisse is a town with good options for its evening party scene. However, Glencoe is not particularly known for nightlife.

Lisse has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

Glencoe doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are a handful of bars where you can relax with local whisky or beer.

Is Lisse or Glencoe Better for Hiking?

Lisse
Glencoe

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

Many visitors go to Glencoe for the hiking trails. The area has dramatic hikes and stunning landscapes. Some of the best walks through the countryside include Inchree Falls, Grey Mare's Tail & Mamore Lodge, and The Two Lairigs.

Lisse is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Lisse or Glencoe?

Lisse
Glencoe

Lisse is a town with good options for its shopping areas. However, Glencoe 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.

Glencoe is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lisse or Glencoe More Beautiful?

Lisse
Glencoe

Lisse and Glencoe are somewhat similar when it comes to the terrific scenery.

Many visitors also come to Lisse because of it's amazing beauty. 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.

You'll find world class beauty in Glencoe as well. The surrounding countryside if filled with dramatic hills and beautiful lakes.

Is Lisse or Glencoe Better for Families?

Lisse
Glencoe

Glencoe is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Lisse is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Glencoe is very family-friendly. Take a steam train along the Harry Potter Line. You'll feel like you're aboard the Hogwarts Express. You can also visit the Natural History Center, hike around the Glencoe National Nature Center, or visit the Glencoe Folk Museum.

Lisse is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Lisse or Glencoe Better for Couples?

Lisse
Glencoe

With fun activities for couples, both Lisse and Glencoe make for a excellent place to visit.

Lisse is a great town if you're traveling as 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.

Glencoe is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy nature, hiking, and stunning scenery will enjoy a visit to this beautiful area.

Is Lisse or Glencoe Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisse
Glencoe

Lisse is a town with good options for backpackers. However, Glencoe is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lisse is a good town to visit for backpackers. 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.

Glencoe is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It can be challenging to reach without a car and the surrounding countryside also requires a vehicle. There is some great camping available in the area.

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

Lisse
Glencoe

Lisse is a town with good options for its public transit. However, Glencoe is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Lisse, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. 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 Glencoe. There are local buses, but it's much easier to make the most of your visit if you have a vehicle.


Is Lisse or Glencoe a more walkable city?

Lisse
Glencoe

Lisse is a town with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Glencoe is not particularly known for its walkability.

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

Glencoe is generally not a very walkable town. It's easier to fully experience the area if you have your own vehicle.

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

Should I spend more time in Glencoe or Lisse?

How long in Lisse or Glencoe?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lisse and Glencoe. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Glencoe than in Lisse. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Lisse, and 1-3 days is enough time in Glencoe.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisse than Glencoe 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 Lisse or Glencoe? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lisse 1-2 
    Glencoe 1-3

One day in Lisse or Glencoe?

In Lisse, you'll find nightlife and food. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Glencoe, many people enjoy the food that this serene destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Lisse or Glencoe?

In Lisse, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lisse has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Glencoe. 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.


Five days in Lisse or Glencoe?

Lisse is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Glencoe is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Glencoe. 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.

A week in Lisse or Glencoe?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lisse. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Lisse. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food around the serene destination of Glencoe. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Netherlands, The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Glencoe or Lisse?

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 Lisse is €179, while the average daily cost in Glencoe is €162. 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 Lisse and Glencoe in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lisse 79
    Glencoe 67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lisse 158
    Glencoe 134
Compare Hotels in Lisse and Glencoe

Looking for a hotel in Lisse or Glencoe? 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 Lisse


Hotels in Glencoe


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.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lisse 23
    Glencoe 42

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lisse

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Lisse or Glencoe?

Prices for flights to both Glencoe and Lisse 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
    Lisse 81
    Glencoe 65

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

Typical Food Prices in Glencoe

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Glencoe:


  • Lunch for 2
    53
  • Lunch for 2
    26

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lisse 30
    Glencoe 33

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

Tours and Activities in Glencoe

Here are a few actual costs in Glencoe for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Fort William Evening Cruise: $49
  • Fort William Seal Island Cruise: $52
  • Fort William Speed boat adventure 90 minutes: $65
  • Private Walking Tour in Fort William Town Centre : $11

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lisse 23
    Glencoe 7.74


When comparing the travel costs between Lisse and Glencoe, 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 Lisse Expensive? and Is Glencoe Expensive?.