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

Should you visit London or Rotterdam?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between London and Rotterdam can help you decide which place is right for you.

London

London is a international, 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 theater, 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

London and Rotterdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in London or Rotterdam?

Tourists will generally find more to do in London than Rotterdam. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. London is more touristy than Rotterdam and is known for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. It is also well known for Big Ben. Rotterdam is famous for its modern architecture, the cube houses, and the market hall.

Big Ben

How is London different from Rotterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

London 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, London has many famous sights for visitors. The city has so many iconic sights that we can't list them all, but some of the most famous include the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, St. Paul's Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the British Museum. You can fill many days exploring the treasures found at each of the venues.

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 London or Rotterdam Better for Theater?

London is an amazing city to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Rotterdam is not a theatre destination.

London is considered to be a world-class theater destination. The West End theater district is where you'll find the most popular musicals. Famous theaters include Apollo Theatre, Palace Theatre, and Piccadilly Theatre. There are often Wednesday matinees that are a bit cheaper than the evening shows. You may also be able to get discounted last minute tickets if you're visiting during the less touristy times.

Rotterdam is not a theatre destination.

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

London 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.

London has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Although food here was once the butt of a number of jokes, the restaurant scene has come a long way, and you can find anything and everything around town. Head to Chinatown to try dim sum or hot pot. There are no shortage of Indian restaurants as well. If you want the best food for the lowest prices, your best bet is to get out of the touristy areas and discover where the locals eat. There are also many markets that are perfect for grabbing a unique lunch or snack. Burrough Market has a number of ethnic and seafood vendors as well as fresh produce and snack options.

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 London or Rotterdam Better for Nightlife?

London 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.

London has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. Some of the best neighborhoods for nightlife are Camden, West End, Soho, and Shoreditch. There are many festivals, concerts, and shows worth checking out and the nightlife scene is diverse enough that there really is something for everyone.

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 London or Rotterdam Better for Music?

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

London has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Famous music venues include Dominion Theatre, the Roundhouse, and Dublin Castle.

Rotterdam is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in London or Rotterdam?

London 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 London specifically to go shopping. With so much iconic shopping around town, it's hard to decide where to go. Head to Oxford Street, Regent Street, or Piccadilly Circus for a quintessential British shopping experience.

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 London or Rotterdam Better for Christmas?

London is an amazing city to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Rotterdam does not offer Christmas activities.

With so many activities, London is a top place to visit during Christmas. There's Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, outdoor ice skating, and beautiful Christmas lights throughout the city. You can also listen to Christmas Carols in Trafalgar Square or see a classic Christmas show.

Rotterdam does not offer Christmas activities.

Is London or Rotterdam Better for Christmas Markets?

London is an amazing city to visit for visiting Christmas markets. However, Rotterdam does not offer Christmas markets.

The holiday season is a very popular time to visit London because of the beautiful Christmas markets. The city has many Christmas markets. There is Winter Wonderland Christmas market, Southbank Centre Winter Market, and Selfridges Christmas Market, among many others.

Rotterdam does not offer Christmas markets.

Is London or Rotterdam Better for Families?

London is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, London is very family-friendly. Whether you do a Harry Potter Tour, take a ride on the London Eye, or enjoy afternoon tea, there are plenty of activities for kids around town. The Harry Potter Studio Tour is fun for everyone, but should be booked well in advance as it sells out. Theatre enthusiasts will enjoy catching a musical in West End and sampling dim sum or a hot pot in Chinatown. There are often Wednesday matinee showings that are perfect for kids with early bedtimes.

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 London or Rotterdam Better for Couples?

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

London is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. With every type of entertainment that you can imagine, this city is the ultimate couple's getaway. There are world class musicals, evening concerts, and restaurants of every style, cuisine, and budget. It's easy for couples to fill days in this vibrant city.

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

Is London or Rotterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

London 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 London, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. Although the city is very expensive, it has tons of hostels, affordable restaurant options, and great public transit. There's a huge backpacker network here and it's easy to meet other travelers. The nightlife scene is also second to none.

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 London or Rotterdam Better for Students?

London is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for students.

London is a very popular place to visit for students. The city has a number of universities and is a popular study abroad destination. It's also a very diverse city, so international students will feel right at home.

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

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

London 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 London is top-notch. From the iconic double decker buses to the Tube, there are plenty of options throughout the city.

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

Is London or Rotterdam a more walkable city?

London 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.

London is a very easy city to get around on foot. With many walkable areas, it is considered to be one of the world's most walkable major cities.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Rotterdam or London?

How long in London or Rotterdam?

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

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

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

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

One day in London or Rotterdam?

People visit London because there is so much to do. 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 London or Rotterdam?

People visit London because there is so much to do. 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 London or Rotterdam?

People visit London 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. 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 London or Rotterdam?

London is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in London, 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 trendy 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 Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Adventure Tours to United Kingdom, The Best River Cruises from Amsterdam, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Netherlands.

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

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

Which is Bigger, London or Rotterdam?

London has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Rotterdam. When comparing the sizes of London 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 London 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 London or Rotterdam in the Summer?

Both Rotterdam and London are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to London in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Rotterdam for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

London is around the same temperature as Rotterdam in the summer. The daily temperature in London averages around 18°C (64°F) in July, and Rotterdam fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

It's quite sunny in Rotterdam. London usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Rotterdam during summer. London gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Rotterdam receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, London usually receives less rain than Rotterdam. London gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit London or Rotterdam in the Autumn?

Both Rotterdam and London during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to London for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Rotterdam because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, London is a little warmer than Rotterdam. Typically, the autumn temperatures in London in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Rotterdam averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, London often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Rotterdam. London gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rotterdam receives 105 hours of full sun.

London usually gets less rain in October than Rotterdam. London gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit London or Rotterdam in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both London and Rotterdam. The winter months attract visitors to London because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Rotterdam this time of year.

It's quite cold in Rotterdam in the winter. The weather in London can be very cold. In January, London is generally much warmer than Rotterdam. Daily temperatures in London average around 4°C (40°F), and Rotterdam fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

London usually receives more sunshine than Rotterdam during winter. London gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Rotterdam receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, London usually receives less rain than Rotterdam. London gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit London or Rotterdam in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to London as well as Rotterdam. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to London this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Rotterdam for the activities around the city.

London is a little warmer than Rotterdam in the spring. The daily temperature in London averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Rotterdam fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, London often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Rotterdam. London gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rotterdam receives 158 hours of full sun.

London usually gets less rain in April than Rotterdam. London gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rotterdam and London