Paris VS Amsterdam: Which is better to visit?
Last Updated on January 2, 2025 by Lauren Allen
If you’re heading on a European city break, you may compare Paris VS Amsterdam, but which city is best?
Both are super in demand. As a matter of fact, over 40 million tourists visit Paris each year while 20 million jump on a plane, train or cruise to hit up Amsterdam.
While Amsterdam is less sought after, it’s still one of the most visited cities in the world!
If you’re on the fence about which city to visit, I’m not surprised. Each one boasts striking architecture, hidden gems and cool activities that will keep you entertained for days on end. You can also enjoy the incredible nightlife, fantastic cuisine and historical sights that they offer.
Depending on the type of traveller you are, you may prefer one city over the other. That’s where I come in! This post will guide you in the right direction using my expert knowledge of both destinations.
After visiting both cities multiple times, I’m very clued up on each one. In fact, I’ve explored a lot of Amsterdam (and many other places in the Netherlands) having visited the country eight times.
I’ve also recently returned from my eighth trip to Paris which means I know a lot about travelling in both locations.
This post will share a comprehensive guide to ensure you make an informed decision. I’ll share the top things to do in each city, the pros and cons of each and key points to remember before you hit up your chosen spot. Let’s get started!
Read more: Copenhagen VS Amsterdam
Paris
On the hunt for a romantic city break? Then you may want to head to the French capital. Known as the city of love, Paris lives and breathes romance.
You can walk hand in hand with your lover, take a leisurely boat ride along the Seine or share a kiss under the twinkling lights of the Eiffel Tower.
The city is also home to a number of highly-rated restaurants which are ideal for date nights. With its fantastic service and picture-perfect decor, Pink Mamma is one of my favourites. Make sure you check it out, even if you’re only there for a few days!
Although Paris is famed for lovey-dovey adventures, it’s still a good city for solo travellers. With a whole host of outstanding museums, quirky activities and photo spots galore, you’ll still have a blast if you hit up Paris solo.
No matter who you discover the city with, there’s enough to keep you busy for at least two weeks. However, this depends on your interests, pace of travel and budget.
Amsterdam
Ah, Amsterdam – the city of bikes and canals! Dubbed the Venice of the North, the Dutch capital is another popular spot in Europe.
Famed for its bustling nightlife, travellers visit to dance the night away, discover the Red Light District and craft their own cocktails at House of Bols.
Not only that but with a vibrant art scene, adventurous activities and museums galore, Amsterdam (and the surrounding areas) allows you to delve deep into Dutch culture.
In nearby Lisse, you can explore Keukenhof (AKA the most beautiful garden in Europe). If you’d prefer, jump on a train and learn about crafts in Zaanse Schans, admire the impressive Inntel Hotel in Zaandam or wander the streets of historic Haarlem.
This diverse city is great for any type of traveller. Whether you’re a seasoned solo adventurer or prefer to travel with loved ones, you’re bound to have a good time.
Similarly to Paris, there are so many things to do that you can entertain yourself for weeks on end! In fact, I’ve been many times and there is still more to check off my Amsterdam bucket list.
Amsterdam or Paris: Which is better?
As two well-loved spots, there are many reasons to check out both Paris and Amsterdam. With pros and cons to visiting both cities, neither one is better than the other.
Having spent more time than most in both destinations, I think it’s fair to say that I’m a fan. I’ve ticked off many of the top sights, discovered hidden gems and gained a wider knowledge of both places.
Over the past year, I’ve fallen in love with Amsterdam. The friendly vibes, charming streets and vibrant art scene always leave me wanting more. Last year, I spent two weeks living like a local 20 minutes outside of the city.
That trip left me searching for homes near Amsterdam… Who knows, maybe one day I’ll bite the bullet!
While I love Amsterdam, Paris will always hold a very special place in my heart. It’s where I made some of my most special memories with my late Brother and for that reason, my love for the city will never fade.
Whether you’d prefer Paris or Amsterdam is a tough one and it’s something that you can only decide after visiting both.
Weather in Paris and Amsterdam
Typically, the weather in both Paris and Amsterdam isn’t that different. Both locations see similar amounts of rain and sunshine. However, Paris often sees slightly higher temperatures when compared to Amsterdam.
Something to keep in mind is that although the weather is similar, Amsterdam can feel colder when you’re exploring the canals and waterways.
If you’re heading to the city to check out the many weird and wonderful things to do in Amsterdam, I highly recommend taking a jacket (or warm coat).
The best time to visit Paris VS Amsterdam
Spring
Spring is one of the best times to visit Paris and Amsterdam. Throughout the months of March and May, the cities come alive with tourists looking to enjoy floral blooms, pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Springtime in Amsterdam is particularly busy thanks to the tulip season. At this time of year, you’ll see colourful blooms pop up all over the Netherlands.
In fact, taking a stroll around the world-renowned Keukenhof Gardens is a must if you’re in the area at this time of year. With breathtaking flower fields all over the country in spring, nature lovers will be in their element!
However, that’s not to say that you’ll miss out in Paris. Between March and April, cherry blossom season is in full swing allowing for pretty photos and memorable strolls in the park.
Summer
As two of the most visited places on the continent, many travellers hit up both cities between the months of June and August.
At this time of year, you can enjoy exciting events such as Amsterdam Pride, Bastille Day in Paris and bustling music festivals.
The summer months also bring nice weather and lots of sunshine. However, it’s worth considering that the heat can get a little overbearing when you’re out in the middle of the afternoon.
If you’re from the UK like me, you may want to escape the heat at an air-conditioned museum.
Autumn
With so many incredible museums in both Paris and Amsterdam, there’s a whole host of things to do if the weather is less than ideal. You can easily pop inside the likes of the Louvre or the Moco Museum to get your art fix and escape the rain.
Both also have a cosy cafe culture. This means you can enjoy a delicious coffee with a sweet treat as you watch the world go by.
Although this may feel like a waste of time when you can be ticking more sights off your bucket list, it’s a lovely way to immerse yourself in local life.
Is it cheaper to get to Amsterdam or Paris from the UK?
When it comes to actually getting to Amsterdam or Paris, the cost can vary a lot. As you may expect, heading to either place in the summer months will cost more money.
In terms of airfare, train prices or other modes of transportation, how far in advance you book can also impact how much you pay. However, when travelling from the UK, is it cheaper to get to Paris or Amsterdam?
As a general rule, the cost is quite similar. In fact, I just searched for one-way flights from London to Paris and then from London to Amsterdam. The difference in cost was just £4.
When deciding between Paris and Amsterdam, a few quid on airfair isn’t going to make a difference. However, the cost of things such as accommodation, tourist attractions and food will…
Which city is more expensive for tourists: Amsterdam or Paris?
Although I’m a big believer that you can visit any city without spending a small fortune, the truth is that some tourist hubs are just generally pricier than others.
When you’re exploring a new place, you’ll want to truly take in the vibes by visiting the top attractions, eating at great restaurants and experiencing the nightlife.
That’s when you’ll truly discover how much it costs to travel to each destination.
To help you gain a deeper understanding, here are the average prices for visiting some of the top tourist attractions in Amsterdam and Paris:
PARIS ATTRACTION | COST | AMSTERDAM ATTRACTION | COST |
Eiffel Tower (lift access to the top) | €29.40 | Rijksmuseum | €22.50 |
Louvre Museum | €22.00 | Anne Frank House | €16.00 + booking fee |
Palais Garnier | €15.00 | Van Gogh Museum | €22.00 |
Sainte Chapelle | €13.00 | Moco Museum | €21.95 |
Seine river cruise in central Paris | From €15.00 | Canal cruise in central Amsterdam | From €16.00 |
Disneyland Paris (one park) | From €60 | Our Lord in the Attic Museum | €16.50 |
Palace of Versailles | From €21.00 | Body Worlds | €24.95 |
Viewpoint at the Sacre Coeur | €8.00 | ARTIS Zoo | From €26.50 |
Arc de Triomphe | €16.00 | Heineken Experience | From €23.00 |
Musee d’Orsay | From €14.00 | A’DAM Tower | From €16.50 |
Let’s say you plan to visit all of the attractions on these lists. In Paris, you’ll spend €213.40, while in Amsterdam, you’ll spend €205.90. Now, that’s a pretty similar cost, so again, it’s not particularly helpful when you’re trying to decide where to go.
However, it’s worth noting that some people will get free or reduced rates when visiting these attractions. Many attractions in Paris are free for those between 18 and 25 who reside in the EU or EEA.
The same can not be said for Amsterdam. This means that if you’re under 25, it would likely be considerably cheaper for you to visit Paris instead.
But, when it comes to eating out and experiencing the nightlife, Amsterdam has more low-cost options when compared to Paris.
In fact, during my time in Amsterdam, I dined at a well-loved restaurant called The Pantry. I ordered a main meal, dessert and two Aperol Spritz which came to a grand total of €33. In Paris, that’s pretty much unheard of.
How to save money while visiting Paris and Amsterdam
At the end of the day, it’s important to weigh up the type of traveller you are. If you’re exploring on a shoestring budget, there are lots of ways to save some cash. For example:
Take advantage of free activities
Making the most out of free things to do is a good way to discover a new region without breaking the bank.
Things like walking tours, parks and museums can save you a lot of money. It’s also a fab way to learn more about the city you’re visiting.
There are many free activities in Amsterdam and Paris that you can enjoy in between visiting the top attractions.
In Paris, you can discover the interiors of the Sacre Coeur, wander around Montmarte and watch in awe as the Eiffel Tower sparkles when the clock strikes 9pm.
In Amsterdam, you can take a leisurely stroll through Vondelpak, admire impressive street art and check out the views from the rooftop terrace at Nemo Science Museum.
These lists are by no means extensive and you could easily fill days with free activities if you wanted. The point is that you don’t need a lot of money to truly appreciate the beauty of Paris and Amsterdam.
Consider buying a city pass
Another fab way to save money is to consider buying a city pass. A number of travel companies offer city cards in both Paris and Amsterdam.
Prices vary depending on the number of days that they are valid for. Here are the best options to consider:
PARIS CITY CARDS | PRICE | AMSTERDAM CITY CARDS | PRICE |
Paris Official City Pass | From €49.00 | Iamsterdam City Card | From €60.00 |
Paris Go City Card | From €94.00 | Amsterdam Go City Card | From €64.00 |
Paris Turbopass | From €139.90 | Netherlands Museumkaart | €75.00 |
When deciding whether or not to buy a city card, it’s important to see what they include.
For instance, the Iamsterdam City Card includes free entry to over 70 attractions, free bike rental for 24 hours and free public transport around the city. Others include much less.
If you’re planning to visit many of the attractions included in these cards, it’s a good idea to purchase one as you can end up saving a lot of money.
However, you should work out the cost of visiting each attraction without the card first as most of the time, it’s only really worth it if you cram a lot of activities into one day.
If you’re the type of person who likes to take things slow or do things on a whim, city cards may not be for you.
From personal experience, the Iamsterdam City Card is well worth it when visiting the city for 2 days or more. On a recent trip, I saved over €161. How good is that? Read my full review here.
Does Paris or Amsterdam have the best hotels?
As a city known for its style, Paris is home to many picture-perfect hotels. In the artsy neighbourhood of Monmarte, Hôtel Monsieur Aristide and Maison Souquet are a feast for the eyes.
Despite the hefty price tags, it’s well worth splashing the cash if you’re celebrating a special occasion.
Amsterdam also has its fair share of beautiful hotels and places to stay. Pulitzer Hotel is not only home to a fantastic cocktail bar, but its classic interiors are absolutely stunning.
On the other hand, De L’Europe Amsterdam offers a lot of unique charm that you won’t find in your typical hotel chain.
Although you can find lots of gorgeous hotels in both capitals, I’m a firm believer that you should only book a fancy hotel for a special occasion.
Realistically, you’ll only be there to sleep and get ready for the day. Why not spend that money on once-in-a-lifetime opportunities or snazzy cocktails instead?
Is Amsterdam or Paris better for sightseeing?
As someone who has visited both Amsterdam and Paris many times, I don’t believe either city is best when it comes to sightseeing.
Both are bursting with world-class museums, notable activities and free things to do. They also offer a whole host of attractions to suit all tastes.
Ultimately, which city is best for sightseeing will depend on personal preferences. If you’re into art, Amsterdam is one of the best cities to visit in Europe thanks to its many art museums.
If you’re a fan of beautiful interiors, Paris has got you covered with the likes of Palais Garnier!
Both destinations offer something different so you’ll need to visit both to make a more informed decision. What a shame (wink wink).
Paris or Amsterdam: Which is better in terms of food?
We’ve already established that eating out in Amsterdam is typically cheaper than in Paris, but which city is best in terms of food? Again, this all depends on your tastes.
Trying the traditional dishes is a must while travelling. It allows you to awaken your senses and take a deeper dive into the place you’re visiting.
French foods such as onion soup, macarons and beef Burgundy are a hit with locals and travellers alike, while the Dutch are known for their hearty dishes.
In Amsterdam, you’ll want to try thick fries, tasty cheese and stamppot. Got a sweet tooth? Then you can’t leave the city without enjoying some pancakes, Stroop waffles and apple pie.
Simply put, both boast tasty desserts and dishes that are bound to satisfy your tastebuds. You just need to figure out what you’d prefer!
Personally, I prefer Dutch food over French which may be down to my dining experiences in the Netherlands. The waiters are so friendly which isn’t always the case in Paris…
Amsterdam VS Paris for shopping
Paris is known for its fashion scene. In fact, it’s dubbed one of the “big four” alongside Milan, London and New York City.
The city’s history of designer fashion puts the French capital high on any shopping-addicts bucket list. However, if your finances don’t stretch to designer clobber, you may want to head to Amsterdam instead.
Shopping in the Netherlands is quite reasonable compared to Paris. With lots of amazing vintage stores, you’re bound to find pieces that will catch your eye.
No matter what you’re shopping for, there are stores to meet all budgets. From high-end shops such as Gucci and Hermes to high-street classics and vintage gems, shopping in either city is a cool experience!
Paris VS Amsterdam for nightlife
Having sampled the nightlife in both Paris and Amsterdam myself, I’m a strong believer that Amsterdam is much better than Paris for a night out.
The Dutch capital is known for its vibrant bars and honestly, I can see why. As a city that brings in over 20 million tourists each year, bars and clubs are busy no matter what day of the week it is. Every night is like Friday night in Amsterdam!
The same can not be said for Paris. If you’re hoping to paint the town red on a Monday, you might be disappointed. Depending on where you are in the city, you’ll find that many bars close early.
Simply put, if you’re looking for a bustling atmosphere and a night out you won’t forget any time soon, you should visit Amsterdam instead of Paris.
However, if you’re looking for a quiet drink in a sophisticated cocktail bar, both Paris and Amsterdam offer a wealth of options.
Can you visit Amsterdam and Paris on the same trip?
If you find it too tough to decide between the two, consider heading on an Amsterdam AND Paris trip! This allows you to tick two destinations off your bucket list and avoid a feeling of FOMO.
If you have a week or so for a European getaway, it’s more than possible to see both spots on the same trip. With so much to see and do, you should aim to split your time quite evenly.
Is it better to fly from Paris to Amsterdam or take the train?
Deciding whether to fly between Paris and Amsterdam or get the train is a matter of personal preference. However, I’m going to share a typical route for each journey and how long it takes to help you make an informed decision.
Flying between Amsterdam and Paris
- The flight between Amsterdam and Paris is around 75 – 85 minutes depending on the direction of your flight.
- The journey between Amsterdam Central and Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is around 15 – 20 minutes by train.
- The journey between Paris city centre and Charles De Gaulle Airport is around 35 minutes (depending on where you are staying).
This makes the total travel time around 2 hours and 20 minutes. However, you will need to get to the airport 2 – 3 hours before your flight.
You also need to factor in time for going through passport control and collecting luggage once you land. This means that at a minimum, you’ll spend 5 – 6 hours travelling between Paris and Amsterdam if you fly.
Catching the train between Paris and Amsterdam
The train journey between Amsterdam and Paris is around 3.5 hours long. However, when travelling via Eurostar, they advise getting to the train station 60 – 90 minutes before departure. Due to this, your travel time will be around five hours.
In addition to a shorter travel day, travelling by train means you’ll arrive in the city centre. As such, it’s much more convenient than having to use another method of transportation once you arrive.
For example, Amsterdam Central is located in the heart of the city centre. If you’re staying at a hotel nearby, catching a train from Paris to Amsterdam will be much easier than using various transport methods.
Is the Paris to Amsterdam train scenic?
The train journey between Paris and Amsterdam can be super scenic at times. It gives travellers the opportunity to enjoy beautiful countryside views that they would otherwise miss if they were to do the journey by plane.
Amsterdam VS Paris FAQs
Although Paris is generally pricier than Amsterdam, the amount of money you’ll spend is all down to your travel style.
However, you’ll be surprised at how little you can spend with some effort. You just need to stay in hostels, enjoy cheap eats and take advantage of free activities.
No, Paris is not the most expensive city in the world. Although it’s a pricey city to visit, there are many ways to explore the French capital without spending a small fortune.
Paris and Amsterdam are 267 miles apart when travelling by plane. If you drive, the distance is 316 miles.
Although it’s possible to visit Amsterdam on a day trip from Paris, there will be a lot of time spent travelling. As such, it will be a tiring day and not the best use of your time.
Train prices can vary, but this route normally costs €90 – €200 depending on the time of year.
No, Amsterdam is in the Netherlands. However, it’s easy to travel between both countries via train or plane.
Amsterdam is the capital city of the Netherlands. It’s also the most visited city in the country.
Situated in the heart of France, Paris is the capital city of this popular country.
Paris VS Amsterdam conclusion
Ultimately, whether you should visit Paris VS Amsterdam depends on your preferences, budget and the type of trip you’re seeking.
Both cities are worth visiting in their own right, boasting unique charm, rich history and a wealth of cultural treasures.
Paris (AKA the city of love) offers world-class cuisine and iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower. Whereas Amsterdam offers interesting museums, endless day trip opportunities and friendly vibes.
Whether you’re cruising along the Seine in Paris or cycling beside Amsterdam’s picture-perfect canals, expect memories that you won’t forget any time soon.
By considering each point within this post, you can make an informed decision on whether you’d prefer Paris or Amsterdam. Can’t choose? Then opt to visit both instead. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
Has this post helped you decide between visiting Amsterdam or Paris? Let me know which city you chose in the comment section below!
Marla deran
thanks.
Lauren Allen
Marla deranGlad you found it helpful 🙂