A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Helsinki vs. Rotorua for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Helsinki or Rotorua?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Helsinki and Rotorua 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.

Helsinki

Helsinki is a nature-focused, coastal, and environmentally conscious city. Helsinki is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Helsinki travel costs.

Rotorua

Rotorua is a cultural, natural, and world-renowned town. The beauty of Rotorua is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Rotorua travel costs.

Helsinki and Rotorua: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Helsinki or Rotorua?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Rotorua than Helsinki. While Helsinki is larger than Rotorua, Rotorua has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Rotorua is more popular for its hiking, while Helsinki is known for its shopping and impressive beauty. Rotorua is more touristy than Helsinki and is known for its geothermal activity, Maori cultural influence, and its role in the famous Lord of the Rings movies. It is also home to Waimangu Volcanic Valley. Helsinki is popular for its rich culture that includes traditional elements as well as an active subculture scene.

How is Helsinki different from Rotorua?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Helsinki or Rotorua?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Helsinki and Rotorua.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Helsinki. Many of the city's sights and attractions center around nature and the water. Major hightlights of the city include the Fortress of Sveaborg, Seurasaari open-Air Museum, and Temppeliaukio Rock Church. The city is also home to The National Museum of Finland.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Rotorua. The area is filled with opportunities to learn about the Maori culture. The Maori village of Whakarewarewa is a highlight and you should also visit Te Wairoa. Fans of Lord of the Rings won't want to miss Hobbiton either. Finally, Rotorua Museum well worth a visit.

Is the Food Better in Helsinki or Rotorua? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Helsinki and Rotorua both to be great destinations.

Helsinki has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Food in town is all about local flavors and simple ingredients. The dishes let the flavor speak for itself without fancy cooking techniques or complex flavor combinations. Many of the restaurants are locally sourced with traditional ingredients. You'll find a lot of seafood, herring, grilled sausages, pancakes, and desserts.

Dining out in Rotorua is an experience not to be missed. There's a wide selection of culinary options in the area that include steambox (food prepared with the geothermal heat), and hāngī, which is a traditional Maori cooking technique. Many restaurants also make use of the local fruit, vegetables, and meats.

Is Helsinki or Rotorua Better for Nightlife?

The good nightlife scene is relatively similar in Helsinki and Rotorua.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Helsinki. The nightlife scene is at its best on weekends when the city center comes to life with parties, dance clubs, and student activities. Many of the best clubs and bars are concentrated in the city center. Weekends are a bit calmer and things quiet down a lot.

Rotorua has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find the best concentration of bars and restaurants around Tutankei Street, which is often referred to as "Eat Street".

Is Helsinki or Rotorua Better for Hiking?

Rotorua is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Helsinki is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Rotorua. The area is filled with beautiful walking trails that take you by lakes, volcanoes, and geothermal hot springs. A favorite route in the area is Tarawera Trail, which is 15 kilometers long and ends at a natural hot water beach.

Helsinki is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Helsinki or Rotorua?

Helsinki is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Helsinki. The city is great for shopping, with many brands focused on sustainability. There are local boutiques as well as name brands. Flea markets and vintage shops are also popular.

Rotorua is a great destination for shopping. You'll find stores and galleries selling art and crafts around the main town center.

Is Helsinki or Rotorua More Beautiful?

Helsinki is an amazing city to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Helsinki is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The city's location on the tip of a peninsula means that the water has a huge influence over daily life. There are more than 300 islands in the area and plenty of nature and parkland. The city is filled with striking color and tons of beauty.

Rotorua is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's surrounded by striking volcanoes, beautiful lakes, and surreal geothermal springs, giving it an exotic and beautiful atmosphere.

Is Helsinki or Rotorua Better for Families?

Rotorua is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Rotorua is an extremely popular town to visit for families. The geothermal activity is fascinating for kids and adults alike. There are also many activities that will teach kids about the Maori culture and for animal lovers, there are farms and wildlife tours. Lord of the Rings fans won't want to miss Hobbiton, and there are many thrilling activities in the area such as white water rafting.

Helsinki is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The coastal setting offers many activities that kids and adults alike will enjoy. This capital city has a calm atmosphere with plenty of parkland to explore. The shoreline is dotted by islands where you'll also find a zoo and a fort. Kids will also enjoy exploring the islands by boat.

Is Helsinki or Rotorua Better for Couples?

Rotorua is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Rotorua is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The unique environment and beautiful natural setting make this a wonderful honeymoon destination. Couples will appreciate the geothermal activity, beautiful walking trails, and diverse outdoor activities. There's also horseback riding, hot springs, and helicopter rides.

Couples visit Helsinki frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city's many parks offer the perfect setting for a picnic or a walk. There are also botanical gardens, evening boat rides, and saunas that will help you enjoy a romantic trip away.

Is Helsinki or Rotorua Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rotorua is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Rotorua is extremely popular for backpackers. Well established on the backpacker trail, there are plenty of hostels in the area and tons of activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Plenty of backpackers visit Helsinki. With its active nightlife scene, vibrant atmosphere, and inclusive personality, this city is a fun place for backpackers, but you should expect to pay a premium for the experience. Many backpackers avoid the city because they have heard how expensive it is. There are a few hostels around that will help you keep costs a bit more manageable.

Is Helsinki or Rotorua Better for Students?

Helsinki is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Rotorua is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Helsinki. The city has an active student life with plenty of culture and nature. It's active nightlife scene and beautiful natural areas make it a wonderful place to study.

Rotorua is not popular with students.

Is Helsinki or Rotorua Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Helsinki is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Helsinki. Transit options include bus, tram, metro, commuter train and ferry services.

You'll find some public transit in Rotorua, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses and shuttles that travel around town and through the area.

Is Helsinki or Rotorua a more walkable city?

Helsinki and Rotorua are good when it comes to walkability.

Helsinki is a somewhat walkable place. Many neighborhoods are easy to explore on foot. The air is also clean and the setting is refreshing.

Rotorua is a somewhat walkable city. The town itself is fairly walkable but if you want to get into the surrounding areas, having a vehicle provides the most flexibility.

For even more information, also check out Is Helsinki Worth Visiting? and Is Rotorua Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rotorua or Helsinki?

How long in Helsinki or Rotorua?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Helsinki and Rotorua. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Helsinki than in Rotorua. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Helsinki, and 2-3 days is enough time in Rotorua.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rotorua than Helsinki 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 Rotorua.

One day in Helsinki or Rotorua?

In Helsinki, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The beautiful town of Rotorua offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Helsinki or Rotorua?

In Helsinki, 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 Helsinki has to offer.

Rotorua is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Rotorua, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Helsinki or Rotorua?

Helsinki 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.

Rotorua is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Helsinki or Rotorua?

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

Rotorua is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Finland, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Finland, The Best 2-Week Tours in New Zealand, and The Best Bicycle Tours in New Zealand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Helsinki and Rotorua, we can see that Helsinki is more expensive. And not only is Rotorua much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Helsinki is in Europe and Rotorua is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Rotorua would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Rotorua 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 Helsinki would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Helsinki than you might in Rotorua.

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

Which is Bigger, Helsinki or Rotorua?

Helsinki has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Rotorua. When comparing the sizes of Helsinki and Rotorua, 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 Helsinki or Rotorua?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Rotorua is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Helsinki has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Helsinki or Rotorua in the Summer?

Both Rotorua and Helsinki are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Helsinki because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Rotorua this time of year.

In the summer, Helsinki is a little warmer than Rotorua. Typically, the summer temperatures in Helsinki in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Rotorua averages at about 12°C (54°F)in January.

In July, Helsinki usually receives more rain than Rotoruain January. Helsinki gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Helsinki or Rotorua in the Autumn?

Both Rotorua and Helsinki during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Helsinki this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Rotorua for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Helsinki is generally much colder than Rotoruain April. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around 6°C (42°F), and Rotorua fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Helsinki usually gets more rain in October than Rotoruain April. Helsinki gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Helsinki or Rotorua in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Helsinki and Rotorua. Many travelers come to Helsinki for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Rotorua in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Helsinki. Helsinki is much colder than Rotorua in the winter. The daily temperature in Helsinki averages around -6°C (21°F) in January, and Rotorua fluctuates around 26°C (79°F)in July.

In January, Helsinki usually receives more rain than Rotoruain July. Helsinki gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Helsinki or Rotorua in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Helsinki as well as Rotorua. Many visitors come to Helsinki in the spring for the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Rotorua for the natural beauty during these months.

Helsinki can get quite cold in the spring. In the spring, Helsinki is much colder than Rotorua. Typically, the spring temperatures in Helsinki in April average around 3°C (37°F), and Rotorua averages at about 19°C (66°F)in October.

Helsinki usually gets more rain in April than Rotoruain October. Helsinki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rotorua and Helsinki