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

Should you visit Kyoto 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 Kyoto 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.

Kyoto

Kyoto is a traditional, historic, and cultural city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a trendy, high energy, and modern port city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kyoto and Rotterdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kyoto or Rotterdam?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kyoto than Rotterdam, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Kyoto is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Rotterdam is known for its nightlife and big city activities. Kyoto is more touristy than Rotterdam and is popular for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history. It is also home to Kinkaku-ji. Rotterdam is popular for its modern architecture, the cube houses, and the market hall.

How is Kyoto different from Rotterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Kyoto 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, Kyoto has many famous sights for visitors. With its long-running history, there are many traditional buildings and temples in town. Nijo Castle is stunning to explore, but also make sure you visit the Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine, the Golden Pavilion, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

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 Kyoto or Rotterdam? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kyoto 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.

Kyoto has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The local cuisine is as beautiful as it is delicious. There is a long running history to many of the dishes, and the recipes are expertly prepared by world class chefs at many of the restaurants. You can enjoy everything from a tea ceremony to multi-course meals, referred to as kyo kaiseki.

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 Kyoto or Rotterdam Better for Nightlife?

Rotterdam is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Rotterdam know how to have a good time. 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 Kyoto has a few options to choose from. While it isn't known for its wild nightlife scene, there is a relaxed and active energy in the evenings here. You can visit the beautiful Arashiyama Kimono Forest or explore some of the riverfront areas such as Kamo Riverside.

Is Kyoto or Rotterdam Better for its Old Town?

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

Kyoto offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. This is among the most historic cities in Japan and there are many traditional buildings and temples. Higashiyama is filled with interesting districts and it has many UNESCO World Heritage temples.

Rotterdam does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Kyoto or Rotterdam?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Rotterdam and Kyoto.

Kyoto is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There's a mix of modern shopping venues and traditional boutiques. Shijo Street is a popular shopping area, as is the area around JR Kyoto Station.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Is Kyoto or Rotterdam Better for Families?

Both Kyoto and Rotterdam are very good to visit with kids.

Kyoto is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will enjoy exploring Nijo Castle as much as adults. If the weather isn't great, you can head to the Kyoto International Manga Museum which is a bit like a library and is perfect for Manga fans. There are also markets to explore such as the Nishiki Markets, which are lined with shops and restaurants.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Rotterdam. Fun activities for kids include Miniworld Rotterdam, the Kids Marina, and Fun Forest, which has ziplines and a ropes course.

Is Kyoto or Rotterdam Better for Couples?

Kyoto is an amazing city to visit for couples. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for romance.

Kyoto is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. This is one of the most historic cities in Japan, and it has many romantic neighborhoods where you can enjoy the atmosphere. Visit Sanneizaka Slope for its traditional shops and restaurants or take a ride on the Sagano Romantic Train. Other romantic highlights include Kimono Forest, which is an art exhibit, and Suzumushidera Temple.

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

Is Kyoto or Rotterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kyoto 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 Kyoto. It's a popular destination in Japan and there are plenty of hostels and free activities that backpackers can enjoy.

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 Kyoto or Rotterdam Better for Students?

Kyoto and Rotterdam are very good places to visit for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Kyoto. It's a great student city with world class universities and a large student population.

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

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Kyoto and Rotterdam.

Public transit in Kyoto can get you to some places easily. The city has an extensive system of trains, subways, and buses that make it easy to get around.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Rotterdam. There are trams, buses, metros, and even a ferry.

Is Kyoto or Rotterdam a more walkable city?

Kyoto is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its walkability.

Kyoto is a very easy city to get around on foot. It's one of the most walkable cities in Japan and there are many sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Rotterdam or Kyoto?

How long in Kyoto or Rotterdam?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Kyoto and Rotterdam. In our opinion, Kyoto has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Kyoto than Rotterdam. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Kyoto, and 1-3 days is enough time in Rotterdam.

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

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

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

One day in Kyoto or Rotterdam?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Kyoto. 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.

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 Kyoto or Rotterdam?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the traditional destination of Kyoto. 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 city has to offer. This 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 Kyoto or Rotterdam?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic city of Kyoto. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the museums. 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 Kyoto or Rotterdam?

Kyoto 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 trendy 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 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo, The Best River Cruises from Amsterdam, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Netherlands.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kyoto and Rotterdam, we can see that Rotterdam is more expensive. And not only is Kyoto much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Kyoto is in Asia and Rotterdam is in Europe, 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 Kyoto would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kyoto 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 Kyoto.

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

Which is Bigger, Kyoto or Rotterdam?

Kyoto has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Rotterdam. When comparing the sizes of Kyoto 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 Kyoto 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 Kyoto or Rotterdam in the Summer?

Both Rotterdam and Kyoto during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kyoto this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Rotterdam for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Kyoto is much warmer than Rotterdam. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kyoto in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Rotterdam averages at about 17°C (62°F).

In Rotterdam, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Kyoto often gets less sunshine than Rotterdam. Kyoto gets 183 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 Kyoto. Kyoto usually gets more rain in July than Rotterdam. Kyoto gets 236 mm (9.3 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kyoto or Rotterdam in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Kyoto and Rotterdam. Many travelers come to Kyoto for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Rotterdam in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Kyoto is generally much warmer than Rotterdam. Daily temperatures in Kyoto average around 18°C (64°F), and Rotterdam fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Kyoto usually receives more sunshine than Rotterdam during autumn. Kyoto gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Rotterdam receives 105 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Kyoto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Kyoto usually receives more rain than Rotterdam. Kyoto gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Kyoto or Rotterdam in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Kyoto as well as Rotterdam. Many visitors come to Kyoto in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Rotterdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Rotterdam can be very cold during winter. Kyoto can get quite cold in the winter. Kyoto is much warmer than Rotterdam in the winter. The daily temperature in Kyoto averages around 5°C (40°F) in January, and Rotterdam fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Kyoto often gets more sunshine than Rotterdam. Kyoto gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rotterdam receives 47 hours of full sun.

Kyoto usually gets less rain in January than Rotterdam. Kyoto gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kyoto or Rotterdam in the Spring?

Both Rotterdam and Kyoto are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Kyoto for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Rotterdam because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Kyoto is much warmer than Rotterdam. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kyoto in April average around 14°C (58°F), and Rotterdam averages at about 8°C (46°F).

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

It's quite rainy in Kyoto. In April, Kyoto usually receives more rain than Rotterdam. Kyoto gets 153 mm (6 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Rotterdam and Kyoto