A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cadiz vs. Rotterdam for Nightlife, Families, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Cadiz or Rotterdam?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Cadiz and Rotterdam can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Cadiz

Cadiz is a authentic, friendly, and undiscovered port city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a modern, trendy, and high energy port city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Cadiz and Rotterdam: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Cadiz or Rotterdam?

You'll generally find more things to do in Rotterdam than Cadiz. Rotterdam is bigger than Cadiz, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Rotterdam is better known for its nightlife and big city activities, while Cadiz is more popular for its beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Cadiz is well known for its long-running maritime history and its charming old town. Rotterdam is well known for its modern architecture, the cube houses, and the market hall. Also, Rotterdam is famous for The Cube Houses.

The Cube Houses
The Cube Houses

How is Cadiz different from Rotterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cadiz or Rotterdam?

Cadiz
Rotterdam

Both Cadiz and Rotterdam have notable landmarks and museums for visitors.

Cadiz is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. As the oldest city in Europe, there are countless historic sights and monuments to see. Some of the most interesting historic sights include Catedral Nueva, the Arcos de los Blancos, Torre Tavira, and Museo de Cádiz.

Rotterdam offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Although many of the historic buildings around town were destroyed during World War II, there are still a number of sights worth checking out. Head to the Old Harbor and Marine Museums, the Museum Boijmans-van Beuningen, or the Wereldmuseum to see some interesting places.


Is the Food Better in Cadiz or Rotterdam? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cadiz
Rotterdam

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at notable restaurants in both Cadiz and Rotterdam.

Cadiz offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The restaurants are good, but if you don't have reservations you're out of luck. Many restaurants fill up during the peak summer months. If you do have reservations then you can expect fresh seafood including everything from oysters to prawns and even fresh caught fish like Bluefin tuna. Make sure you try the shrimp fritters and papas con choco (cuttlefish and potato stew). Tapas are a great way to sample a number of small local dishes. Also finish your meal off with some churros.

Rotterdam has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city's restaurant scene is diverse. There are ethnic restaurants, vegan restaurants, local restaurants, and some popular chains.

Is Cadiz or Rotterdam Better for Nightlife?

Cadiz
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Rotterdam offers plenty to do in the evening. It is a trendy city with an active nightlife. You can relax with a beer or hit up one of the clubs around town. Popular options are Club Vibes, Toffler, and Club Vie.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Cadiz. The nightlife scene is diverse, with both cultural activities and dance clubs to choose from. Whether you're looking for a late night party or a more mellow evening on the town, there are a number of options available.

Is Cadiz or Rotterdam Better for Beaches?

Cadiz
Rotterdam

Cadiz is adequate for the beach. However, Rotterdam is not a beach destination.

The beach in Cadiz is worth checking out. The beaches remain relatively undiscovered on the international level, so you won't have to deal with the crowds that you find at many Spanish beaches. They are urban beaches that make a good place to cool off, but aren't particularly scenic. The beaches are popular with nearby locals, and the atmosphere remains chill and relaxed. While there are many beaches to choose from outside of town, the closest in town beach is La Caleta. It's even been featured in a few Hollywood films such as Die Another Day.

Rotterdam is not a beach destination.


Is Cadiz or Rotterdam Better for its Old Town?

Cadiz
Rotterdam

Cadiz is great for its historic old town charm. However, Rotterdam does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Cadiz. The old town offers a patchwork network of cobblestone streets that intertwine plazas, churches, and historic buildings.

Rotterdam does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cadiz or Rotterdam?

Cadiz
Rotterdam

Both Cadiz and Rotterdam are very good shopping destinations.

Cadiz is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There's a diverse mix of local boutiques, food markets, shopping centers, and street markets where you can pick up everything from local items to European fashion. If you happen to be in town on a weekend, keep in mind that many shops are only open in the morning on Saturdays and closed all day Sundays.

Rotterdam is well-known for its shopping. You'll find fashion and clothing shops in the area around Lijnbaan and Beurstraverse. This is also where you'll find the shopping mall of Bijenkorf.

Is Cadiz or Rotterdam Better for Families?

Cadiz
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Rotterdam is a very family-friendly place to visit. Fun activities for kids include Miniworld Rotterdam, the Kids Marina, and Fun Forest, which has ziplines and a ropes course.

Cadiz is a family-friendly port city. The city has beaches where everyone can splash around, as well as some parks and playgrounds where kids can get their energy out. Outside of town you'll find waterparks and other fun activities as well.


Is Cadiz or Rotterdam Better for Couples?

Cadiz
Rotterdam

Both Cadiz and Rotterdam are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

Cadiz is a nice destination for couples. With its history and beaches, there are many romantic activities that couples can enjoy. Wander around old town and enjoy local cuisine. Visit the historic ruins and take a hike outside of the city.

Rotterdam makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It is a modern city with good restaurants and some fun activities.

Is Cadiz or Rotterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cadiz
Rotterdam

Both Cadiz and Rotterdam are notable destinations for backpackers.

Cadiz is a good port city to visit for backpackers. One of the biggest draws to the city is there huge Carnival festival every February. This is a popular time to visit and backpackers will appreciate the lively atmosphere.

Plenty of backpackers visit Rotterdam. There are a number of hostels around town as well as a good nightlife that appeals to backpackers.

Is Cadiz or Rotterdam Better for Students?

Cadiz
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a well-known place for students. However, Cadiz is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Rotterdam. The city has a great job market and a lot of activities that appeal to international students.

Cadiz is not popular with students.


Is Cadiz or Rotterdam Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cadiz
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Rotterdam is fairly effecient and thorough. There are trams, buses, metros, and even a ferry.

Cadiz has some public transit options. There are five bus lines around town. The buses are comfortable and air conditioned.

Is Cadiz or Rotterdam a more walkable city?

Cadiz
Rotterdam

Cadiz and Rotterdam both are very good when exploring on foot.

Cadiz is very walkable. It is a walkable city that is historic and compact enough to explore on foot. It can be a bit of a walk to get from the old town to the beach though.

Rotterdam is a very walkable port city. There are broad streets with wide sidewalks that are pedestrian friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Cadiz Worth Visiting? and Is Rotterdam Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rotterdam or Cadiz?

How long in Cadiz or Rotterdam?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rotterdam than Cadiz 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 Rotterdam.


  • How many days in Cadiz or Rotterdam? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cadiz 1-2 
    Rotterdam 1-3

One day in Cadiz or Rotterdam?

You'll find shopping and museums around the port city of Cadiz. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cadiz has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Each neighborhood in Rotterdam has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.


A weekend in Cadiz or Rotterdam?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Cadiz. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rotterdam. 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 Cadiz or Rotterdam?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the undiscovered port city of Cadiz. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

A week in Cadiz or Rotterdam?

Cadiz is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week 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 will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find food and shopping around the high energy big city of Rotterdam. 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 Contiki Tours to Spain, The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain, The Best River Cruises from Amsterdam, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Netherlands.


Which place is cheaper, Rotterdam or Cadiz?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Cadiz is €152, while the average daily cost in Rotterdam is €152. 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 Cadiz and Rotterdam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cadiz 77
    Rotterdam 77
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cadiz 154
    Rotterdam 154
Compare Hotels in Cadiz and Rotterdam

Looking for a hotel in Cadiz or Rotterdam? 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 Cadiz


Hotels in Rotterdam


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: Cadiz Hotel Prices and Rotterdam Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cadiz 30
    Rotterdam 26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cadiz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cadiz:

  • Private Transfer from/to Cadiz Airport to/from Hotel: $87
  • Private Transfer from Cadiz city hotels to Cadiz Cruise Port: $28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Rotterdam

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

  • Rotterdam to Rotterdam Airport (RTM) - Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • Rotterdam Airport (RTM) to Rotterdam - Arrival Private Transfer: $38
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam hotels to Rotterdam Cruise Port : $38
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam Cruise Port to Rotterdam hotels: $38
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam Port to Rotterdam Airport (RTM): $38
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam Cruise Port to Rotterdam hotels: $60
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam Airport (RTM) to IJmuiden Port: $61
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam hotels to Rotterdam Cruise Port: $61
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam Port to Amsterdam Airport (AMS): $66
  • Rotterdam Airport(RTM) to Rotterdam - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $76
  • Rotterdam Airport RTM Private Transfer to Rotterdam in Sedan Car: $77
  • Rotterdam Private Transfer to Rotterdam Airport RTM in Sedan Car: $81

Is it cheaper to fly into Cadiz or Rotterdam?

Prices for flights to both Rotterdam and Cadiz 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
    Cadiz 45
    Rotterdam 54
Typical Food Prices in Cadiz

Some typical examples of dining costs in Cadiz are as follows:


  • Dinner and Tapas
    15
  • Lunch for 1
    10

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cadiz

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

  • Tapas Food Tour in Jerez de la Frontera: $39
  • Food Tour Cadiz: $75
  • Tabancos Food Tour Jerez: $92

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Rotterdam

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

  • Self-Guided Rotterdam BiteMe Food Tour: $43
  • 4-Hour Food Tour - Self-guided: $48
  • Guided Food Tour: $79
  • Guided Walking Food Tour: $84
  • Biking Rotterdam Food Tour with Local Guide: $86
  • Walking Rotterdam Food Tour: $86
  • WALKING DINNER ROTTERDAM | 3 courses + 3 drinks and a lot of fun: $87
  • Food Tour by Bike: $91
  • Private Walking Food Tour of Rotterdam: $120
  • Rotterdam Walking Dutch Food Tour: $153
  • Rotterdam Private 2-Hour Food Tour with Tastings: $160
  • Private Multicultural Bike Food Tour: $273

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cadiz 27
    Rotterdam 32
Typical Entertainment Prices in Cadiz

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Cadiz are as follows:


  • Cadiz Sightseeing Tour
    15

Tours and Activities in Cadiz

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

  • 2 Hours Private Historical Tour in Cadiz : $87
  • 3 Hour Tapa and Cultural Experience Walking Tour: $120
  • 3-Hour Private Tour of Cádiz: $17
  • Audioguided Tour of Cádiz Monumental, at your pace: $4.27
  • Cádiz 2:45h Bike Tour: $38
  • Cádiz Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.96
  • Cádiz: Cadiz Milenaria Guided Tour: $13
  • Cádiz: Guided Bike Tour: $37
  • Cádiz: Local Tapas Experience: $160
  • Cádiz: Mysteries and Legends Walking Tour with Souvenir: $25
  • Cádiz: Private Guided Tour with Flexible Route: $106
  • Cádiz: Private Sun Cruise for 2 with Aperitivo and Wine: $481

Tours and Activities in Rotterdam

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

  • Hightlights City Centre Walking Tour: $1.07
  • Rotterdam Spanish Tour 2 Hours: $2.61
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Rotterdam Walking Tour in 2 Hours : $3.27
  • Escape Game and Tour: $4.28
  • Rotterdam Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.56
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.95
  • Rotterdam Walking Audio Tour on Your Phone (ENG): $7.65
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $8.02
  • Waterbus Ticket to Dordrecht and/or Kinderdijk: $10
  • Private Smartphone Walking Tour on WhatsApp: $10
  • Dordrecht: Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cadiz 28
    Rotterdam 19

Sample the Local Flavors in Cadiz

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Cadiz:

  • Private Tour with Tapas, Wine Tasting and Bike Rental: $107
  • Countryside Olive Oil & Wine Tasting: $128

Sample the Local Flavors in Rotterdam

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

  • Beer Brewery Noordt Tastings with Optional Tour: $8.02
  • Heineken Building former brewery | Guided Tour: $8.02
  • Stadshaven Brewery Tour with Beer Tastings: $12


When comparing the travel costs between Cadiz and Rotterdam, we can see that Cadiz 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 Cadiz Expensive? and Is Rotterdam Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cadiz or Rotterdam?

Rotterdam has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Cadiz. When comparing the sizes of Cadiz and Rotterdam, 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 Cadiz or Rotterdam?

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 Cadiz or Rotterdam in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cadiz as well as Rotterdam. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cadiz this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Rotterdam for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cadiz is generally a little warmer than Rotterdam. Daily temperatures in Cadiz average around 25°C (77°F), and Rotterdam fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Rotterdam. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cadiz this time of the year. In the summer, Cadiz often gets more sunshine than Rotterdam. Cadiz gets 356 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rotterdam receives 202 hours of full sun.

Cadiz usually gets less rain in July than Rotterdam. Cadiz gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cadiz 25°C (77°F) 
    Rotterdam 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Cadiz or Rotterdam in the Autumn?

Both Rotterdam and Cadiz are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cadiz for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Rotterdam in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Cadiz is much warmer than Rotterdam in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cadiz averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Rotterdam fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cadiz. Cadiz usually receives more sunshine than Rotterdam during autumn. Cadiz gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Rotterdam receives 105 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cadiz usually receives around the same amount of rain as Rotterdam. Cadiz gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cadiz 20°C (68°F) 
    Rotterdam 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Cadiz or Rotterdam in the Winter?

Both Rotterdam and Cadiz during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cadiz in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Rotterdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Rotterdam can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Cadiz is much warmer than Rotterdam. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cadiz in January average around 13°C (55°F), and Rotterdam averages at about 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Cadiz often gets more sunshine than Rotterdam. Cadiz gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rotterdam receives 47 hours of full sun.

Cadiz usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Rotterdam. Cadiz gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cadiz 13°C (55°F) 
    Rotterdam 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Cadiz or Rotterdam in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cadiz and Rotterdam. Most visitors come to Cadiz for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Rotterdam because of the activities around the city.

In April, Cadiz is generally much warmer than Rotterdam. Daily temperatures in Cadiz average around 17°C (63°F), and Rotterdam fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In Cadiz, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cadiz usually receives more sunshine than Rotterdam during spring. Cadiz gets 253 hours of sunny skies, while Rotterdam receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cadiz usually receives less rain than Rotterdam. Cadiz gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cadiz 17°C (63°F) 
    Rotterdam 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Rotterdam and Cadiz

Cadiz Rotterdam
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 14°C (57°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 16°C (61°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 17°C (63°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 22°C (72°F) 7 mm (0.3 in) 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 0 mm (0 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 23°C (73°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 20°C (68°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 17°C (63°F) 98 mm (3.9 in) 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 14°C (57°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)