A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Isle of Skye vs. Rotterdam for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Isle of Skye or Rotterdam?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Isle of Skye and Rotterdam. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is a diverse, dramatic, and scenic island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking, food, and beaches.

Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a modern, trendy, and high energy port city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Isle of Skye and Rotterdam: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
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
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Isle of Skye or Rotterdam?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Rotterdam than Isle of Skye, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Rotterdam is better known for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Isle of Skye is more popular for its food, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Isle of Skye is more touristy than Rotterdam and is known for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles. 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 Isle of Skye different from Rotterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Isle of Skye or Rotterdam?

Isle of Skye
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

Rotterdam is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Isle of Skye or Rotterdam? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Isle of Skye
Rotterdam

Isle of Skye is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Isle of Skye has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Foodies will appreciate the seasonal local ingredients that many restaurants use. Both the land and sea offer ingredients that inspire delicious dishes. You can choose from Michelin star restaurants, local cafes, and cozy inns. The food is fresh and well made.

Rotterdam offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The city's restaurant scene is diverse. There are ethnic restaurants, vegan restaurants, local restaurants, and some popular chains.

Is Isle of Skye or Rotterdam Better for Nightlife?

Isle of Skye
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a very popular place for nightlife. However, Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Rotterdam has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Isle of Skye or Rotterdam Better for Beaches?

Isle of Skye
Rotterdam

Isle of Skye is great for the beach. However, Rotterdam is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Isle of Skye for it's beautiful beaches. Some of the best beaches in Scotland are found on the Isle of Skye. The rugged coastline feels pristine and undiscovered. Some of the best beaches include Coral Beach, Talisker Bay Beach, Rubha Shlèite Beach, and Camasunary Bay.

Rotterdam is not a beach destination.


Is Isle of Skye or Rotterdam Better for Hiking?

Isle of Skye
Rotterdam

Isle of Skye is an amazing island to visit for hiking. However, Rotterdam is not a hiking destination.

Isle of Skye is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Hikes on the island range from family-friendly to some of the most challenging in Scotland. The setting is dramatic and beautiful and the hikes are a varied as the landscape. Some of the most popular hikes include the Fairy Pools, the Old Man of Storr, Neist Point Lighthouse, and the Quiraing.

Rotterdam is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Isle of Skye or Rotterdam?

Isle of Skye
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a very popular place for shopping. However, Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Rotterdam Better for Families?

Isle of Skye
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Isle of Skye is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Isle of Skye. Kids who love the outdoors will enjoy many of the kid-friendly hikes in the area. Favorites include the Old Man of Storr Hike and the Brother’s Point Hike. Other fun family-friendly places to visit include the Isle of Skye Fairy Glen, the Fairy Pools, and Slipway Beach.


Is Isle of Skye or Rotterdam Better for Couples?

Isle of Skye
Rotterdam

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

Isle of Skye is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. With beautiful hikes and impressive castles, this island makes a stunning romantic getaway. There are beautiful viewpoints and coastal backdrops that make for a perfect couples getaway.

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

Is Isle of Skye or Rotterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Isle of Skye
Rotterdam

Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye. There are many beautiful places to camp, so backpackers will enjoy hiking during the day and sleeping under the stars at night.

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 Isle of Skye or Rotterdam Better for Students?

Isle of Skye
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Isle of Skye is not popular with students.

Many students visit Rotterdam. The city has a great job market and a lot of activities that appeal to international students.

Isle of Skye is not popular with students.


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

Isle of Skye
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Isle of Skye is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Isle of Skye. There are local bus routes on the island that are operated by Stagecoach.

Is Isle of Skye or Rotterdam a more walkable city?

Isle of Skye
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

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

Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Isle of Skye Worth Visiting? and Is Rotterdam Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rotterdam or Isle of Skye?

How long in Isle of Skye or Rotterdam?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Isle of Skye and Rotterdam. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Isle of Skye than in Rotterdam. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Isle of Skye, and 1-3 days is enough time in Rotterdam.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Isle of Skye than Rotterdam 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 Isle of Skye.


  • How many days in Isle of Skye or Rotterdam? Ideal Length of Stay
    Isle of Skye 2-5 
    Rotterdam 1-3

One day in Isle of Skye or Rotterdam?

You'll find food around the island of Isle of Skye. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this port city.


A weekend in Isle of Skye or Rotterdam?

You'll find food around the picturesque destination of Isle of Skye. 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 island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Rotterdam is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Isle of Skye or Rotterdam?

You'll find food around the scenic island of Isle of Skye. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the high energy big city of Rotterdam. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Isle of Skye or Rotterdam?

Isle of Skye is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Rotterdam is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best River Cruises from Amsterdam, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Netherlands.


Which place is cheaper, Rotterdam or Isle of Skye?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Isle of Skye is £114, while the average daily cost in Rotterdam is £130. 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 Isle of Skye and Rotterdam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Isle of Skye £51
    Rotterdam £66
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Isle of Skye £102
    Rotterdam £132
Compare Hotels in Isle of Skye and Rotterdam

Looking for a hotel in Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye


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: Rotterdam Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Isle of Skye £54
    Rotterdam £22

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Isle of Skye

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

  • Isle of Skye to Inverness Direct transfer: $623

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 Private Transfer to Schiphol Airport & Amsterdam City: $148
  • Rotterdam Private Transfer to Rotterdam Airport RTM in Sedan Car: $81
  • Rotterdam Private Transfer to Rotterdam Airport RTM by Luxury Van: $83
  • Rotterdam Airport(RTM) to Rotterdam - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $76
  • Rotterdam Airport RTM Round-Trip Private Transfer: $162
  • Rotterdam Airport RTM Private Transfer to Rotterdam in Sedan Car: $77
  • Rotterdam Airport RTM Private Transfer to Rotterdam by Luxury Van: $83
  • Rotterdam Airport (RTM) to Rotterdam - Arrival Private Transfer: $38
  • Private transfer from Rotterdam cruise port to Amsterdam: $160
  • Private transfer from Rotterdam cruise port to AMS Schiphol: $160
  • Private transfer Schiphol (AMS) to/from Rotterdam.: $167

Is it cheaper to fly into Isle of Skye or Rotterdam?

Prices for flights to both Rotterdam and Isle of Skye 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
    Isle of Skye £31
    Rotterdam £46

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.
    Isle of Skye £19
    Rotterdam £27

Tours and Activities in Isle of Skye

For Isle of Skye, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Isle of Skye Private Tour from Portree: $228
  • Tour the highlights and hidden beauties.: $812

Tours and Activities in Rotterdam

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

  • "Remastered" Audiovisual Experience in Rotterdam: $27
  • 2-Hour Walking Tour in Gouda All inclusive: $19
  • 90 Minutes Self-Guided Family Friendly Walking Tour in Gouda: $21
  • All Inclusive, Private Tour Rotterdam + Euromast 360º view: $220
  • Best of small-group walking tour: $96
  • Boat & Beer Walking Tour: $97
  • Breda Highlight Bike Tour: $32
  • Breda: Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Discover Breda with a self-guided Outside Escape city game tour!: $27
  • Discover Dordrecht with this Outside Escape city game tour!: $27
  • Discover Gouda with a self-guided Outside Escape city game tour!: $27
  • Discover Rotterdam during this Outside Escape city game tour!: $27

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Isle of Skye £7.71
    Rotterdam £16

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 Isle of Skye and Rotterdam, we can see that Rotterdam 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 Isle of Skye Expensive? and Is Rotterdam Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Isle of Skye or Rotterdam?

Rotterdam has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Isle of Skye. When comparing the sizes of Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye or Rotterdam?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Rotterdam in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Isle of Skye and Rotterdam. The summer months attract visitors to Isle of Skye because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Rotterdam this time of year.

In July, Isle of Skye is generally cooler than Rotterdam. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 13°C (55°F), and Rotterdam fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Rotterdam this time of the year. Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Rotterdam during summer. Isle of Skye gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Rotterdam receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Isle of Skye usually receives around the same amount of rain as Rotterdam. Isle of Skye gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Isle of Skye 13°C (55°F) 
    Rotterdam 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Rotterdam in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Isle of Skye as well as Rotterdam. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Isle of Skye this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Rotterdam for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Isle of Skye is cooler than Rotterdam in the autumn. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 9°C (49°F) in October, and Rotterdam fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Rotterdam. Isle of Skye gets 82 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rotterdam receives 105 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in October than Rotterdam. Isle of Skye gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Isle of Skye 9°C (49°F) 
    Rotterdam 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Rotterdam in the Winter?

Both Rotterdam and Isle of Skye are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Isle of Skye for the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Rotterdam in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Rotterdam can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Isle of Skye. In the winter, Isle of Skye is much warmer than Rotterdam. Typically, the winter temperatures in Isle of Skye in January average around 4°C (40°F), and Rotterdam averages at about 2°C (36°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Rotterdam during winter. Isle of Skye gets 41 hours of sunny skies, while Rotterdam receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Isle of Skye. In January, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Rotterdam. Isle of Skye gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Isle of Skye 4°C (40°F) 
    Rotterdam 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Rotterdam in the Spring?

Both Rotterdam and Isle of Skye during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Isle of Skye in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Rotterdam for the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Isle of Skye is generally cooler than Rotterdam. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 7°C (44°F), and Rotterdam fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, Isle of Skye often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Rotterdam. Isle of Skye gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rotterdam receives 158 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in April than Rotterdam. Isle of Skye gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Isle of Skye 7°C (44°F) 
    Rotterdam 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Rotterdam and Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye Rotterdam
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 127 mm (5 in) 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 96 mm (3.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 9°C (48°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 11°C (53°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 13°C (55°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 13°C (55°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 129 mm (5.1 in) 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)