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

Should you visit Lisbon or Rotterdam?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Rotterdam? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a picturesque, colorful, and vibrant city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

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.

Lisbon and Rotterdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Rotterdam?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lisbon. Although Lisbon and Rotterdam are popular destinations, Lisbon has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lisbon is more touristy than Rotterdam and is known for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also well known for Castelo de São Jorge. Rotterdam is famous for its modern architecture, the cube houses, and the market hall.

How is Lisbon different from Rotterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lisbon 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, Lisbon has many famous sights for visitors. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

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 Lisbon or Rotterdam? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lisbon 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 Lisbon, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

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 Lisbon or Rotterdam Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for nightlife.

Lisbon has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

Rotterdam has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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 Lisbon or Rotterdam Better for Music?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Rotterdam is not a live music destination.

Lisbon has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

Rotterdam is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Rotterdam Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is a good destination for the beach. However, Rotterdam is not a beach destination.

Lisbon offers a nice beach destination. The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

Rotterdam is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Rotterdam Better for its Old Town?

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

Lisbon offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of town.

Rotterdam does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Rotterdam?

Lisbon is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for shopping.

Many people travel to Lisbon specifically to go shopping. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Rotterdam is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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 Lisbon or Rotterdam Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Lisbon or Rotterdam.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lisbon. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars. Kids of all ages will appreciate the intricate maze of streets and lively atmosphere that this city offers. There's also the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão, which is a beautiful bookshop that is said to be an inspiration for Harry Potter. Don't expect to simply walk in, as there is often a long line to enter.

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 Lisbon or Rotterdam Better for Couples?

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

Lisbon is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples. There are many romantic viewpoints as well as world class restaurants that couples will enjoy.

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

Is Lisbon or Rotterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon 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 Lisbon, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers. Prices are also reasonable for a large and vibrant city.

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 Lisbon or Rotterdam Better for Students?

Both Lisbon and Rotterdam are superb destinations for students.

Lisbon is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

Rotterdam is very popular with students. The city has a great job market and a lot of activities that appeal to international students.

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

Lisbon 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 Lisbon is top-notch. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

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

Is Lisbon or Rotterdam a more walkable city?

Lisbon 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.

Lisbon is a very easy city to get around on foot. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Rotterdam or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Rotterdam?

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

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

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

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

One day in Lisbon or Rotterdam?

People visit Lisbon 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the big city destination of Rotterdam. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Lisbon or Rotterdam?

People visit Lisbon 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Lisbon or Rotterdam?

People visit Lisbon 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rotterdam. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Lisbon or Rotterdam?

Lisbon 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 Lisbon, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the modern big city of Rotterdam. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best River Cruises from Amsterdam, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Netherlands.

When comparing the travel costs between Lisbon 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 Lisbon Expensive? and Is Rotterdam Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Rotterdam?

Rotterdam has a larger population, and is about 16% larger than the population of Lisbon. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon 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 Lisbon 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 Lisbon or Rotterdam in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Rotterdam. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Rotterdam because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Lisbon is a little warmer than Rotterdam in the summer. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 23°C (73°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. In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Rotterdam during summer. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies, while Rotterdam receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Rotterdam. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lisbon or Rotterdam in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Rotterdam. The autumn months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Rotterdam this time of year.

In the autumn, Lisbon is much warmer than Rotterdam. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lisbon in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Rotterdam averages at about 11°C (51°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lisbon this time of the year. In the autumn, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Rotterdam. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rotterdam receives 105 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets more rain in October than Rotterdam. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Rotterdam in the Winter?

Both Rotterdam and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Rotterdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Rotterdam. In January, Lisbon is generally much warmer than Rotterdam. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 12°C (53°F), and Rotterdam fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Rotterdam during winter. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Rotterdam receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Lisbon. In January, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Rotterdam. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lisbon or Rotterdam in the Spring?

Both Rotterdam and Lisbon during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Rotterdam in the spring for the activities around the city.

Lisbon is much warmer than Rotterdam in the spring. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Rotterdam fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the spring, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Rotterdam. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rotterdam receives 158 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets more rain in April than Rotterdam. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rotterdam and Lisbon