Although Paris is generally more expensive than Amsterdam, the amount of money you'll spend is all down to your travel style. You can easily visit both destinations on a budget. You just need to stay in hostels, enjoy cheap eats and take advantage of free activities.

Generally, Amsterdam is slightly more expensive for the average tourist than Paris, primarily due to a severe shortage of hotel inventory that keeps room rates high year-round. While Paris has plenty of ultra-luxury options, its sheer size means there is a much larger supply of budget-friendly hostels and "local" arrondissements where food and drink are quite affordable. In contrast, Amsterdam’s "Canal Ring" area is small and highly sought after, leading to some of the highest average nightly rates in Europe. When comparing attractions, both are similar, but dining in Paris can be significantly cheaper if you eat at neighborhood bistros rather than tourist cafes. In 2026, the "Tourist Tax" in Amsterdam has also increased significantly to combat overtourism, adding a noticeable premium to every hotel bill. If you are on a strict budget, you will likely find more "value for money" in the diverse neighborhoods of Paris.