A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lake District National Park vs. Rotterdam for Backpackers, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park 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.

Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is a spectacular, relaxing, and enjoyable national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the food and hiking.

Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a high energy, modern, and trendy port city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Lake District National Park and Rotterdam: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • 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 students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Lake District National Park or Rotterdam?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rotterdam. Although Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park attracts visitors for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Lake District National Park is more touristy than Rotterdam and is known for its mountains, lakes, stunning natural beauty, and amazing hikes. 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 Lake District National Park different from Rotterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lake District National Park or Rotterdam?

Lake District National Park
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Lake District National Park or Rotterdam? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lake District National Park
Rotterdam

Lake District National Park 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.

Lake District National Park has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a long history of culinary arts in the region and you'll enjoy locally sourced ingredients at many restaurants. There are also a number of Michelin starred restaurants to choose from.

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 Lake District National Park or Rotterdam Better for Nightlife?

Lake District National Park
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Lake District National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Lake District National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Lake District National Park or Rotterdam Better for Hiking?

Lake District National Park
Rotterdam

Lake District National Park is an amazing national park to visit for hiking. However, Rotterdam is not a hiking destination.

Lake District National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. There's a huge selection of hikes to choose from in the area, ranging from easy strolls to more strenuous climbs. The park offers some of the best hiking in the country and you can spend days exploring. Some of the favorite hikes in the area include Scafell Pike, Helvellyn, and Catbells.

Rotterdam is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Lake District National Park or Rotterdam?

Lake District National Park
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lake District National Park or Rotterdam Better for Families?

Lake District National Park
Rotterdam

Both Lake District National Park and Rotterdam are excellent family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lake District National Park. Kids will enjoy getting out in nature as much as the adults do. They can stretch their legs and run around, or you can check out some of the family-friendly activities in the area. Popular options include the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway, the World of Beatrix Potter, Wray Castle, and the adventure park Brockhole on Windermere. There's also Lakes Aquarium, Lake District Wildlife Park, and Lake District Coast Aquarium for animal lovers.

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

Is Lake District National Park or Rotterdam Better for Couples?

Lake District National Park
Rotterdam

Lake District National Park is great for couples. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for romance.

Lake District National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. One of the most impressive national parks in the country, couples will enjoy hiking, camping, and exploring this stunning setting. Whether you're watching the sunset from a mountaintop or enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the water, this park is a perfect place to relax.

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


Is Lake District National Park or Rotterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lake District National Park
Rotterdam

Lake District National Park is an amazing national park 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 Lake District National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. There are plenty of camping options throughout the park with a range of hookup facilities to meet everyone's needs. Waterfront campsites are also available.

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 Lake District National Park or Rotterdam Better for Students?

Lake District National Park
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Lake District National Park 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.

Lake District National Park is not popular with students.

Is Lake District National Park or Rotterdam Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lake District National Park
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Lake District National Park is lacking in options for its public transit.

Rotterdam offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are trams, buses, metros, and even a ferry.

Public transit is generally limited in Lake District National Park. There are shuttlebuses in parts of the park.


Is Lake District National Park or Rotterdam a more walkable city?

Lake District National Park
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

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

Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Lake District National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Rotterdam Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rotterdam or Lake District National Park?

How long in Lake District National Park or Rotterdam?

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

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


  • How many days in Lake District National Park or Rotterdam? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lake District National Park 3-7 
    Rotterdam 1-3

One day in Lake District National Park or Rotterdam?

You'll find food around the national park of Lake District National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.

Rotterdam is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Lake District National Park or Rotterdam?

You'll find food around the unique destination of Lake District National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many people visit Rotterdam for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.


Five days in Lake District National Park or Rotterdam?

You'll find food around the relaxing national park of Lake District National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this national park makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer.

The modern big city of Rotterdam offers shopping and museums. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. 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 Lake District National Park or Rotterdam?

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

Rotterdam, a popular port city, is full of activities for travelers. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, The Best River Cruises from Amsterdam, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Netherlands.


Which place is cheaper, Rotterdam or Lake District National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Lake District National Park is £81, 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 Lake District National Park and Rotterdam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lake District National Park £39
    Rotterdam £66
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lake District National Park £78
    Rotterdam £132
Compare Hotels in Lake District National Park and Rotterdam

Looking for a hotel in Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park


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.
    Lake District National Park £33
    Rotterdam £22

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lake District National Park

Also for Lake District National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Lake District Ski Club to Manchester Airport - Departure Transfer: $44
  • Lake District Ski Club to Newcastle Airport - Departure Transfer: $33

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 Lake District National Park or Rotterdam?

Prices for flights to both Rotterdam and Lake District National Park 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
    Lake District National Park £21
    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.
    Lake District National Park £20
    Rotterdam £27

Tours and Activities in Lake District National Park

For Lake District National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 3-Hours Via Ferrata Experience in Keswick: $140
  • Ghyll Scrambling Water Adventure in the Lake District: $89
  • Guided Canoeing Experience on Coniston Water - Half Day: $89

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
    Lake District National Park £4.64
    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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lake District National Park and Rotterdam, we can see that Rotterdam is more expensive. And not only is Lake District National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lake District National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park.

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



When is the best time to visit Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park or Rotterdam in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lake District National Park and Rotterdam. The summer months attract visitors to Lake District National Park because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Rotterdam this time of year.

Lake District National Park is cooler than Rotterdam in the summer. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 15°C (59°F) in July, and Rotterdam fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Rotterdam this time of the year. Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Rotterdam during summer. Lake District National Park gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Rotterdam receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Rotterdam. Lake District National Park gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lake District National Park 15°C (59°F) 
    Rotterdam 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Rotterdam in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Lake District National Park is around the same temperature as Rotterdam. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lake District National Park in October average around 10°C (49°F), and Rotterdam averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Rotterdam. Lake District National Park gets 69 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rotterdam receives 105 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in October than Rotterdam. Lake District National Park gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lake District National Park 10°C (49°F) 
    Rotterdam 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Rotterdam in the Winter?

Both Rotterdam and Lake District National Park are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park. In January, Lake District National Park is generally much warmer than Rotterdam. Daily temperatures in Lake District National Park average around 3°C (38°F), and Rotterdam fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Rotterdam during winter. Lake District National Park gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Rotterdam receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Lake District National Park. In January, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Rotterdam. Lake District National Park gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lake District National Park 3°C (38°F) 
    Rotterdam 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Rotterdam in the Spring?

Both Rotterdam and Lake District National Park during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Lake District National Park in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Rotterdam for the activities around the city during these months.

Lake District National Park is around the same temperature as Rotterdam in the spring. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Rotterdam fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Rotterdam. Lake District National Park gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rotterdam receives 158 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in April than Rotterdam. Lake District National Park gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lake District National Park 7°C (45°F) 
    Rotterdam 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Rotterdam and Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park Rotterdam
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in) 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)