Which place is cheaper, Rotterdam or Malmo?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
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Should you visit Malmo or Rotterdam?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
If you're trying to decide where to visit between Malmo 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.
Where Should I go: Malmo or Rotterdam?
Malmo
Located on the southern tip of Sweden, in the province of Skane, Malmo is Sweden's third largest city. It has a very international population with about a third of the residents being from countries other than Sweden. This diversity is evident within Malmo, which is rich in culture, interesting food, and an array of entertainment options. Historically, Malmo was an industrial city with a ship building company, Kockums being the area's largest employer. Today, however, the city is much more economicaly diverse with many eco friendly neighborhoods and plenty of suburban style housing.
Rotterdam
Rotterdam is the second largest city in the Netherlands and has the largest port in Europe. It's famously known as a city of architecture. In a few square kilometers of the city center you can get a complete overview of twentieth century architecture within Rotterdam.
Rotterdam is a very diverse, international, and hard working city. Nearly half of the city's population is not native to the Netherlands or have at least one parent from outside the country. Muslim's make up a significant portion of the population. Other area's represented include Cape Verde and the Dutch Antilles.
There's an air of optimism that permeates the entire city. There are frequent events, festivals and performances, making Rotterdam an enjoyable place to spend some time. Water is also an integral part of the city design.
For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Sweden, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Sweden, The Best River Cruises from Amsterdam, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Netherlands.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayMalmo $81Rotterdam $162
The average daily cost (per person) in Malmo is $81, while the average daily cost in Rotterdam is $162. 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 Malmo and Rotterdam in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personMalmo $48Rotterdam $82
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomMalmo $96Rotterdam $164
Compare Hotels in Malmo and Rotterdam
Looking for a hotel in Malmo 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.
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: Malmo Hotel Prices and Rotterdam Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Malmo $7.88Rotterdam $28
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Malmo
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Malmo:
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Malmö Bus Card$18
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Malmo
Also for Malmo, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Malmö City to Copenhagen hotel/address Private Departure Transfer: $128
- Private Direct Transfer From Malmo to Copenhagen: $121
- Private Transfer from Malmo Airport MMX to Fredericia Port: $96
- Malmo Private Transfer from Malmo airport to Central Malmo : $95
- Malmo Private Transfer from Central Malmo to Malmo Airport: $95
- Malmo Airport (MMX) to Malmo City Center - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $55
- Malmo City Center to Malmo Airport (MMX) - Departure Private Transfer: $27
- Malmo Airport (MMX) to Malmo City Center - Arrival Private Transfer: $27
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 Malmo or Rotterdam?
Prices for flights to both Rotterdam and Malmo 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
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Food Meals for one dayMalmo $25Rotterdam $58
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Malmo
For Malmo, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- Self-guided Food Tour in Malmö: $59
- Guided Food Tour in Malmö (Private): $120
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
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Malmo $16Rotterdam $34
Tours and Activities in Malmo
For Malmo, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:
- Canal Sightseeing Boat Tour of Malmö: $21
- Exploring Malmo Walking Tour: $147
- Half Day Walking Tour in Lund City and University: $33
- Joyful Malmo Walking Tour for Couples: $147
- Lund's Medieval and Modern History: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
- Malmö Ghost Story: A self-guided audio walking tour: $9.35
- Malmö Photography Tour: $58
- Malmo Walking Tour, 3 hours (small group): $66
- Self-guided audio tour in Lund: explore the story of the Locus Peccatorum murder: $9.35
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
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayMalmo $35Rotterdam $20
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 Malmo and Rotterdam, we can see that Rotterdam is more expensive. And not only is Malmo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Malmo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Malmo 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 Malmo.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Malmo Expensive? and Is Rotterdam Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Malmo or Rotterdam?
Rotterdam has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Malmo. When comparing the sizes of Malmo 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 Malmo 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 Malmo or Rotterdam in the Summer?
The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Malmo and Rotterdam. Also, many visitors come to Rotterdam in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.
In the summer, Malmo is around the same temperature as Rotterdam. Typically, the summer temperatures in Malmo in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Rotterdam averages at about 17°C (62°F).
People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Rotterdam this time of the year. In Malmo, it's very sunny this time of the year. Malmo usually receives more sunshine than Rotterdam during summer. Malmo gets 247 hours of sunny skies, while Rotterdam receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.
In July, Malmo usually receives less rain than Rotterdam. Malmo gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.
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Summer Average Temperatures JulyMalmo 17°C (62°F)Rotterdam 17°C (62°F)
Should I visit Malmo or Rotterdam in the Autumn?
The autumn brings many poeple to Malmo as well as Rotterdam. Also, most visitors come to Rotterdam for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.
In October, Malmo is generally around the same temperature as Rotterdam. Daily temperatures in Malmo average around 10°C (50°F), and Rotterdam fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).
In the autumn, Malmo often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Rotterdam. Malmo gets 104 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rotterdam receives 105 hours of full sun.
Malmo usually gets less rain in October than Rotterdam. Malmo gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.
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Autumn Average Temperatures OctoberMalmo 10°C (50°F)Rotterdam 11°C (51°F)
Should I visit Malmo or Rotterdam in the Winter?
Both Rotterdam and Malmo are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. 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. Malmo can be very cold during winter. Malmo is much colder than Rotterdam in the winter. The daily temperature in Malmo averages around 0°C (32°F) in January, and Rotterdam fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).
Malmo usually receives less sunshine than Rotterdam during winter. Malmo gets 36 hours of sunny skies, while Rotterdam receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.
In January, Malmo usually receives less rain than Rotterdam. Malmo gets 37 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.
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Winter Average Temperatures JanuaryMalmo 0°C (32°F)Rotterdam 2°C (36°F)
Should I visit Malmo or Rotterdam in the Spring?
Both Rotterdam and Malmo during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, the activities around the city are the main draw to Rotterdam this time of year.
In the spring, Malmo is cooler than Rotterdam. Typically, the spring temperatures in Malmo in April average around 5°C (42°F), and Rotterdam averages at about 8°C (46°F).
In the spring, Malmo often gets more sunshine than Rotterdam. Malmo gets 173 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rotterdam receives 158 hours of full sun.
Malmo usually gets less rain in April than Rotterdam. Malmo gets 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.
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Spring Average Temperatures AprilMalmo 5°C (42°F)Rotterdam 8°C (46°F)
Typical Weather for Rotterdam and Malmo
| Malmo | Rotterdam | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
| Jan | 0°C (32°F) | 37 mm (1.4 in) | 2°C (36°F) | 66 mm (2.6 in) |
| Feb | -0°C (32°F) | 25 mm (1 in) | 3°C (37°F) | 49 mm (1.9 in) |
| Mar | 2°C (35°F) | 32 mm (1.3 in) | 5°C (41°F) | 63 mm (2.5 in) |
| Apr | 5°C (42°F) | 35 mm (1.4 in) | 8°C (46°F) | 52 mm (2 in) |
| May | 11°C (51°F) | 38 mm (1.5 in) | 12°C (54°F) | 61 mm (2.4 in) |
| Jun | 15°C (59°F) | 44 mm (1.7 in) | 15°C (59°F) | 68 mm (2.7 in) |
| Jul | 17°C (62°F) | 52 mm (2 in) | 17°C (62°F) | 75 mm (3 in) |
| Aug | 17°C (62°F) | 50 mm (2 in) | 17°C (62°F) | 71 mm (2.8 in) |
| Sep | 14°C (57°F) | 46 mm (1.8 in) | 14°C (57°F) | 67 mm (2.6 in) |
| Oct | 10°C (50°F) | 46 mm (1.8 in) | 11°C (51°F) | 72 mm (2.8 in) |
| Nov | 6°C (42°F) | 46 mm (1.8 in) | 6°C (43°F) | 81 mm (3.2 in) |
| Dec | 2°C (36°F) | 41 mm (1.6 in) | 3°C (38°F) | 80 mm (3.1 in) |
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.