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

Should you visit Istanbul or Rotterdam?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Rotterdam, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Istanbul

Istanbul is a high-energy, historic, and diverse city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. 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.

Istanbul and Rotterdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Rotterdam?

You'll generally find more things to do in Istanbul than Rotterdam. Istanbul is bigger than Rotterdam, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Istanbul is more touristy than Rotterdam and is popular for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. Also, Istanbul is famous for The Blue Mosque. Rotterdam is well known for its modern architecture, the cube houses, and the market hall.

How is Istanbul different from Rotterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Istanbul has many famous sights for visitors. With such a long and diverse religious and political history, it has many museums, mosques, churches, and archeological sites that you can visit. Some of the most famous sights include the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Sarayi, and the Blue Mosque.

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.

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

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit 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.

Eat your way through Istanbul, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. From Turkish classics to sweet desserts, the city has it all. Popular dishes include Turkish style pizza, kebabs, and doner, which you'll find everywhere for affordable prices. You'll also find many tourist-centered restaurants in the touristy areas but if you get away from the main sights, you'll find more local options that let you sample high quality food for affordable prices.

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 Istanbul or Rotterdam Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are great in both Istanbul and Rotterdam.

Istanbul has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Dancing, dining, and partying have all become part of Istanbul's culture. Top nightclubs in the city include Reina, Sortie, and Supperclub. If you're looking for dance clubs and alcohol, your best bet is to head to the Beyoglu district.

Rotterdam has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Is Istanbul or Rotterdam Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Rotterdam does not have a historic old town.

Istanbul offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The Old City in Istanbul is the most historic part of the city. It's where you'll find most of the city's historic sights. The area around Sultanahmet Square is the most popular tourist area to explore.

Rotterdam does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Rotterdam?

Both Istanbul and Rotterdam are great shopping destinations.

Istanbul is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It is the capital of culture and fashion in Turkey, and there are many shopping areas that carry all kinds of brands. For a more traditional, but touristy experience head to the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Market. For modern brands, Istiklal Caddesi is the most popular area for shopping.

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 Istanbul or Rotterdam Better for Families?

Istanbul and Rotterdam are both great destinations for the whole family.

Istanbul is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has several kid-friendly museums, a couple of aquariums, and fun theme parks. If the kids need a break from the city, you can spend a day at Vialand Theme Park or LEGOLAND Discovery Center Istanbul. Food in Istanbul is also very kid-friendly with many affordable dishes that young ones will enjoy.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Rotterdam is very family-friendly. Fun activities for kids include Miniworld Rotterdam, the Kids Marina, and Fun Forest, which has ziplines and a ropes course.

Is Istanbul or Rotterdam Better for Couples?

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

Istanbul is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy history, culture, and vibrant neighborhoods will enjoy a romantic stay here. The city lights up at night and there are many rooftop dessert cafes where you can take in the view. The waterfront setting is the perfect place to watch the sunset and there are many places to walk and soak up the atmosphere.

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

Is Istanbul or Rotterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Istanbul, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. There are plenty of hostels and budget accommodation options, and there's also plenty of ways to meet other travelers. You'll find plenty of hostels concentrated in the Sultanahmet area.

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 Istanbul or Rotterdam Better for Students?

Istanbul and Rotterdam are both great destinations for students and younger travelers.

Istanbul is a great city to visit as a student. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

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.

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

Istanbul is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its public transit.

Public transit in Istanbul is top-notch. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Rotterdam. There are trams, buses, metros, and even a ferry.

Is Istanbul or Rotterdam a more walkable city?

Istanbul and Rotterdam both are great when exploring on foot.

Istanbul is very walkable. Although it is huge, most of the neighborhoods that tourists visit are incredibly walkable and pedestrian-friendly.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Rotterdam or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Rotterdam?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Istanbul and Rotterdam. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Istanbul than in Rotterdam. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 1-3 days is enough time in Rotterdam.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Istanbul 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 Istanbul.

One day in Istanbul or Rotterdam?

People visit Istanbul because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

The port city of Rotterdam offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Istanbul or Rotterdam?

People visit Istanbul because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Rotterdam is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this port city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Rotterdam, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Istanbul or Rotterdam?

People visit Istanbul because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Rotterdam 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 Istanbul or Rotterdam?

Istanbul is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Istanbul, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Rotterdam is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This port city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Turkey, The Best Tours for Seniors to Turkey, The Best River Cruises from Amsterdam, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Netherlands.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Rotterdam?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Rotterdam. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul 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 Istanbul 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 Istanbul or Rotterdam in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Rotterdam. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Rotterdam in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Istanbul is generally a little warmer than Rotterdam. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 24°C (74°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 Istanbul this time of the year. In the summer, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Rotterdam. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rotterdam receives 202 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets less rain in July than Rotterdam. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Rotterdam in the Autumn?

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

Istanbul is much warmer than Rotterdam in the autumn. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Rotterdam fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Rotterdam during autumn. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Rotterdam receives 105 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Istanbul usually receives around the same amount of rain as Rotterdam. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Istanbul or Rotterdam in the Winter?

Both Rotterdam and Istanbul during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Istanbul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Rotterdam because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Rotterdam can be very cold. In the winter, Istanbul is much warmer than Rotterdam. Typically, the winter temperatures in Istanbul in January average around 6°C (43°F), and Rotterdam averages at about 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Rotterdam. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rotterdam receives 47 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in January than Rotterdam. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Rotterdam in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Rotterdam. The spring months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Rotterdam this time of year.

In April, Istanbul is generally much warmer than Rotterdam. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 13°C (55°F), and Rotterdam fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Rotterdam during spring. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Rotterdam receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Istanbul usually receives around the same amount of rain as Rotterdam. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Rotterdam and Istanbul