A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Grindelwald vs. Rotterdam for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Grindelwald or Rotterdam?

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 Grindelwald and Rotterdam can help you decide which place is right for you.

Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a breathtaking, beautiful, and adventure-filled town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, skiing, and nightlife.

Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a high energy, modern, and trendy port city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Grindelwald and Rotterdam: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for shopping
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • 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 Grindelwald or Rotterdam?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rotterdam. Although Grindelwald and Rotterdam are popular destinations, Rotterdam has more sights and attractions for tourists. Rotterdam is very popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Grindelwald attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Grindelwald is more touristy than Rotterdam and is popular for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. Rotterdam is famous for its modern architecture, the cube houses, and the market hall. It is also well known for The Cube Houses.

The Cube Houses
The Cube Houses

How is Grindelwald different from Rotterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Grindelwald or Rotterdam Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald
Rotterdam

Grindelwald is great for skiing. However, Rotterdam is not a skiing destination.

Grindelwald draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. Most of the skiing in the area is best for intermediate level skiers. There are also some places for beginners to ski, but not a lot of options for advanced skiers. The resort is relatively large with 30 lifts and some cross country skiing options as well.

Rotterdam is not a skiing destination.


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

Grindelwald
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is very good for its museums and landmarks. However, Grindelwald is not particularly known for its historical sights.

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

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Grindelwald. If you happen to have poor weather, there are very few indoor activities around town. The area is all about the views and the outdoor setting, so weather is key when visiting.

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

Grindelwald
Rotterdam

Foodies will find both Grindelwald and Rotterdam both to be nice destinations.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Grindelwald area. You'll find a casual pizza joint, a cafe, fine dining, and a handful of other restaurants in town.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Rotterdam. The city's restaurant scene is diverse. There are ethnic restaurants, vegan restaurants, local restaurants, and some popular chains.

Is Grindelwald or Rotterdam Better for Nightlife?

Grindelwald
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Rotterdam is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Grindelwald has a few options to choose from. You'll find the most bars of any of the Jungfrau ski resorts in town. Most are attached to a hotel and offer a nice place to enjoy a drink in a laid back setting.


Is Grindelwald or Rotterdam Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald
Rotterdam

Grindelwald is an amazing town to visit for hiking. However, Rotterdam is not a hiking destination.

Grindelwald is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Hiking in the area offers spectacular views of the Bernese Alps including Wetterhorn, Eiger, Jungfrau, and Breithorn. There are trails that cater to all levels and hiking is the best way to explore the countryside.

Rotterdam is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Grindelwald or Rotterdam?

Grindelwald
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is well known for its shopping areas. However, Grindelwald is not particularly known for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Rotterdam. 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.

Grindelwald is a good destination for shopping. There are places to pick up sporting equipment that you may have forgotten. Many shops are seasonal and the turnover is frequent as the tourist season ebbs and flows.

Is Grindelwald or Rotterdam Better for Families?

Grindelwald
Rotterdam

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Grindelwald or Rotterdam.

Grindelwald is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The area is filled with outdoor adventures like hiking, ziplining, and cog railways. There are hikes for every age and skill level and older kids will enjoy the ropes courses and other outdoor activities.

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


Is Grindelwald or Rotterdam Better for Couples?

Grindelwald
Rotterdam

Grindelwald is great for couples. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for romance.

Grindelwald is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Most people don't visit for the town itself, but instead for the many outdoor adventures in the area. Couples that enjoy hiking and skiing will appreciate a visit to this beautiful alpine setting.

Rotterdam is a nice destination for couples. It is a modern city with good restaurants and some fun activities.

Is Grindelwald or Rotterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grindelwald
Rotterdam

Grindelwald is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Grindelwald. There are a decent number of hostels in the area, so the town makes a good base for backpackers.

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

Is Grindelwald or Rotterdam Better for Students?

Grindelwald
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is well known for students. However, Grindelwald is not popular with students.

Rotterdam is very popular with students. The city has a great job market and a lot of activities that appeal to international students.

Grindelwald is not popular with students.


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

Grindelwald
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is well known for its public transit. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Rotterdam can get you to most places easily. There are trams, buses, metros, and even a ferry.

While Grindelwald offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local buses that travel around the region.

Is Grindelwald or Rotterdam a more walkable city?

Grindelwald
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is well known for its ease of walking around. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

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

Grindelwald is somewhat walkable. Most places in town can be reached on foot but there can be a lot of traffic on the main thoroughfares.

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

Should I spend more time in Rotterdam or Grindelwald?

How long in Grindelwald or Rotterdam?

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

Families should spend more time in Rotterdam than Grindelwald. 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.

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


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

One day in Grindelwald or Rotterdam?

Even though Grindelwald is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Grindelwald has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Rotterdam is a modern port city where you can fill many days. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Grindelwald or Rotterdam?

Grindelwald is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and skiing. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Rotterdam is a trendy big city where you can fill many days. This port city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Grindelwald or Rotterdam?

Grindelwald is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The trendy port city of Rotterdam offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Grindelwald or Rotterdam?

Grindelwald is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Rotterdam. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Switzerland, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, The Best River Cruises from Amsterdam, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Netherlands.


Which place is cheaper, Rotterdam or Grindelwald?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Grindelwald is $241, while the average daily cost in Rotterdam 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 Grindelwald and Rotterdam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Grindelwald $141
    Rotterdam $82
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Grindelwald $282
    Rotterdam $164
Compare Hotels in Grindelwald and Rotterdam

Looking for a hotel in Grindelwald 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 Grindelwald


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: Grindelwald Hotel Prices and Rotterdam Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Grindelwald $53
    Rotterdam $28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Grindelwald

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Grindelwald:

  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Transfer: $201
  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Geneva Airport (GVA) - Departure Transfer: $180
  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Zurich Airport (ZRH) - Departure Transfer: $87

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Rotterdam

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

  • Amsterdam Schiphol Airport(AMS) to Rotterdam- Round-Trip Transfer: $131
  • Private Direct Transfer from Rotterdam to Amsterdam: $169
  • Private Minivan Transfer from Rotterdam: $295
  • Private Minivan Transfer from Rotterdam : $273
  • Private Rotterdam Cruise Port Departure Transfer to AMS Schiphol Airport : $164
  • Private Rotterdam Cruise Port Departure Transfer to Amsterdam: $169
  • Private Transfer From Rotterdam to Amsterdam, With a 2 Hour Stop: $240
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam Airport (RTM) to IJmuiden Port: $61
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam City to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: $208
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam Cruise Port to Amsterdam hotels: $98
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam Cruise Port to Rotterdam hotels: $38
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam Cruise Port to Rotterdam hotels: $60

Is it cheaper to fly into Grindelwald or Rotterdam?

Prices for flights to both Rotterdam and Grindelwald 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
    Grindelwald $58
    Rotterdam $58

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.
    Grindelwald $59
    Rotterdam $34

Tours and Activities in Grindelwald

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

  • From Jungfraujoch Round-Trip Railway Ticket: $231
  • Grindelwald First (Top of Adventure) Ticket incl. Cliff Walk: $142
  • Grindelwald First: Cable Car Ticket with Cliff Walk: $134
  • Glacier Canyon Entrance Ticket: $21
  • Indoor Ropes Park Entry Ticket: $40
  • Switzerland: Private Skiing Day Tour for any level: $447

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
    Grindelwald $33
    Rotterdam $20

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

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


Which is Bigger, Grindelwald or Rotterdam?

Rotterdam has a larger population, and is about 160 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Grindelwald 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 Grindelwald 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 Grindelwald or Rotterdam in the Summer?

Both Rotterdam and Grindelwald during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Grindelwald in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Rotterdam for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Grindelwald is a little warmer than Rotterdam in the summer. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Rotterdam fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

In Rotterdam, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Grindelwald. In the summer, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Rotterdam. Grindelwald gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rotterdam receives 202 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in July than Rotterdam. Grindelwald gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Grindelwald 23°C (73°F) 
    Rotterdam 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Rotterdam in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Grindelwald and Rotterdam. Most visitors come to Grindelwald for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Rotterdam because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Grindelwald is a little warmer than Rotterdam. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Grindelwald in October average around 15°C (58°F), and Rotterdam averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Rotterdam during autumn. Grindelwald gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Rotterdam receives 105 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Grindelwald gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Rotterdam. Grindelwald gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Grindelwald 15°C (58°F) 
    Rotterdam 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Rotterdam in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Grindelwald as well as Rotterdam. The winter months attract visitors to Grindelwald because of the skiing, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Rotterdam this time of year.

It's quite cold in Rotterdam in the winter. The weather in Grindelwald can be very cold. In January, Grindelwald is generally much warmer than Rotterdam. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 5°C (41°F), and Rotterdam fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Rotterdam. Grindelwald gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rotterdam receives 47 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald usually gets more rain in January than Rotterdam. Grindelwald gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Grindelwald 5°C (41°F) 
    Rotterdam 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Rotterdam in the Spring?

Both Rotterdam and Grindelwald are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Grindelwald this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Rotterdam for the activities around the city.

Grindelwald is much warmer than Rotterdam in the spring. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Rotterdam fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Rotterdam during spring. Grindelwald gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Rotterdam receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Grindelwald. In April, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Rotterdam. Grindelwald gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Grindelwald 13°C (55°F) 
    Rotterdam 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Rotterdam and Grindelwald

Grindelwald Rotterdam
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in) 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in) 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in) 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)