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

Should you visit Nottingham 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 Nottingham 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.

Nottingham

Nottingham is a authentic, dynamic, and livable city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and shopping.

Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a modern, trendy, and high energy port city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Nottingham and Rotterdam: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Nottingham or Rotterdam?

Both Rotterdam and Nottingham have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Nottingham is better known for its music, while Rotterdam is more popular for its nightlife and big city activities. Nottingham is more touristy than Rotterdam and is popular for its authenticity and local cuisine. Rotterdam is well known for its modern architecture, the cube houses, and the market hall.

How is Nottingham different from Rotterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nottingham
Rotterdam

Both Nottingham and Rotterdam have notable landmarks and museums for visitors.

Nottingham is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. You'll find history and culture around town. Some of the notable landmarks include Wollaton Hall, the National Justice Museum, Nottingham Castle, and Old Market Square.

Rotterdam offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Nottingham or Rotterdam? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nottingham
Rotterdam

Both Nottingham and Rotterdam offer notable local cuisine and restaurants.

Nottingham offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a diversity of restaurants around town that range from local fish and chips shops to international options. Pubs, cafes, and fine dining are all available in town.

Rotterdam has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city's restaurant scene is diverse. There are ethnic restaurants, vegan restaurants, local restaurants, and some popular chains.

Is Nottingham or Rotterdam Better for Nightlife?

Nottingham
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is well known for nightlife. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Rotterdam is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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 Nottingham has a few options to choose from. Head to the oldest pub in England, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, for a pint or check out one of the trendy clubs around town. The city is also a big sports town, so see if there are any sporting events going on while you're visiting.

Is Nottingham or Rotterdam Better for Music?

Nottingham
Rotterdam

Nottingham is a good destination for its music scene. However, Rotterdam is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Nottingham. Many of the best music concerts in the UK make there way to Nottingham. Check out Rock City, which hosts all kinds of concerts.

Rotterdam is not a live music destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Nottingham or Rotterdam?

Nottingham
Rotterdam

Shopping is a popular activity in both Rotterdam and Nottingham.

Nottingham is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to the Lace Market, which is a popular shopping area. You can also wander around the center of town on foot and head to the pedestrian streets that are often lined with independent shops or international chains.

Rotterdam is well-known for its shopping. 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 Nottingham or Rotterdam Better for Families?

Nottingham
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Nottingham offers lots of family activities. There are a number of parks and play areas that younger kids will enjoy. You can check out Wheelgate Park, White Post Farm, Rufford Abbey, or Sherwood Pines. Sundown Adventureland is a small theme park that's designed for younger kids under 10. If your kids are into museums, head to the Newark Air Museum.

Is Nottingham or Rotterdam Better for Couples?

Nottingham
Rotterdam

Both Nottingham and Rotterdam are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

Nottingham is a nice destination for couples. You'll find the typical date night activities around town like arcades, minigolf, and some interesting restaurants. There are also parks where you can enjoy a stroll in nature.

Rotterdam makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It is a modern city with good restaurants and some fun activities.


Is Nottingham or Rotterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nottingham
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a port city with good options for backpackers. However, Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Rotterdam is a good port city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of hostels around town as well as a good nightlife that appeals to backpackers.

Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Nottingham or Rotterdam Better for Students?

Nottingham
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is well known for students. However, Nottingham is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Rotterdam. The city has a great job market and a lot of activities that appeal to international students.

Nottingham is not popular with students.

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

Nottingham
Rotterdam

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

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Nottingham. There are buses and trams around town that connect into the rail network. The multi-operator system is organized by the Robin Hood Network.

Public transit in Rotterdam can get you to some places easily. There are trams, buses, metros, and even a ferry.


Is Nottingham or Rotterdam a more walkable city?

Nottingham
Rotterdam

Nottingham and Rotterdam both are very good when exploring on foot.

Nottingham is very walkable. It is trying to transform itself into a pedestrian-friendly city, and you'll find some areas that are particularly walkable. The city center is very compact and generally walkable.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Rotterdam or Nottingham?

How long in Nottingham or Rotterdam?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nottingham and Rotterdam. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Rotterdam than in Nottingham. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Nottingham, and 1-3 days is enough time in Rotterdam.

Families should spend more time in Rotterdam than Nottingham. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rotterdam than Nottingham 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 Rotterdam.


  • How many days in Nottingham or Rotterdam? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nottingham 1-2 
    Rotterdam 1-3

One day in Nottingham or Rotterdam?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Nottingham. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nottingham has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

When visiting Rotterdam, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Rotterdam, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Nottingham or Rotterdam?

You'll find live music and food around the livable destination of Nottingham. 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.

When visiting Rotterdam, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this port city.


Five days in Nottingham or Rotterdam?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the authentic city of Nottingham. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Rotterdam, a popular port city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Nottingham or Rotterdam?

Nottingham is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

Rotterdam is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, The Best River Cruises from Amsterdam, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Netherlands.


Which place is cheaper, Rotterdam or Nottingham?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Nottingham is £117, 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 Nottingham and Rotterdam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nottingham £64
    Rotterdam £66
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nottingham £128
    Rotterdam £132
Compare Hotels in Nottingham and Rotterdam

Looking for a hotel in Nottingham 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 Nottingham


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: Nottingham Hotel Prices and Rotterdam Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nottingham £21
    Rotterdam £22

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nottingham

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nottingham:

  • Private Transfer from Nottingham to Manchester Airport (MAN): $224
  • Nottinghamshire to Manchester Airport (MAN) Luxury Transfers: $210
  • Private Nottingham Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $97
  • Private Transfer from Glossop to Manchester Airport (MAN): $80
  • East Midlands Airport to Nottingham City Private Transfer: $76
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Leicester-RoundTrip Private Transfer: $76
  • Private East Midlands Departure Transfer- Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $55
  • Nottingham to East Midlands Airport Private Departure Transfer: $38
  • Derby to East Midlands Airport (EMA) - Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Nottingham City Private Transfer: $38
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Loughborough City Transfer: $35
  • Private Transfer from Loughborough to East Midlands Airport: $35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Rotterdam

Also for Rotterdam, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Amsterdam Schiphol Airport(AMS) to Rotterdam- Round-Trip Transfer: $131
  • Private Direct Transfer from Rotterdam to Amsterdam: $169
  • Private Minivan Transfer from Rotterdam: $295
  • Private Minivan Transfer from Rotterdam : $273
  • Private Rotterdam Cruise Port Departure Transfer to AMS Schiphol Airport : $164
  • Private Rotterdam Cruise Port Departure Transfer to Amsterdam: $169
  • Private Transfer From Rotterdam to Amsterdam, With a 2 Hour Stop: $240
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam Airport (RTM) to IJmuiden Port: $61
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam City to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: $208
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam Cruise Port to Amsterdam hotels: $98
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam Cruise Port to Rotterdam hotels: $38
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam Cruise Port to Rotterdam hotels: $60

Is it cheaper to fly into Nottingham or Rotterdam?

Prices for flights to both Rotterdam and Nottingham 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
    Nottingham £36
    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.
    Nottingham £28
    Rotterdam £27

Tours and Activities in Nottingham

Here are a few actual costs in Nottingham for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Gems of Boston (UK) – Private Walking Tour for Couples: $222
  • Baroness Bolsover's Town Tour with Afternoon Tea: $32
  • Half-Day Spa Experiences : $103
  • Lincoln Private Walking Tour: $140
  • Men's Yellow Belly Half-Day Spa Experience: $203
  • Nottingham Private Guided Walking Tour: $294
  • Nottingham Private Walking Tour with a Professional Guide: $279
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $17
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $18
  • Nottingham and Robin Hood Private Guided Walking Tour: $153
  • Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz Tour App: $19
  • Private City Walking Tour: $144

Tours and Activities in Rotterdam

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Rotterdam.

  • Hightlights City Centre Walking Tour: $1.07
  • Rotterdam Spanish Tour 2 Hours: $2.61
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Rotterdam Walking Tour in 2 Hours : $3.27
  • Escape Game and Tour: $4.28
  • Rotterdam Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.56
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.95
  • Rotterdam Walking Audio Tour on Your Phone (ENG): $7.65
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $8.02
  • Waterbus Ticket to Dordrecht and/or Kinderdijk: $10
  • Private Smartphone Walking Tour on WhatsApp: $10
  • Dordrecht: Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nottingham £7.10
    Rotterdam £16

Sample the Local Flavors in Nottingham

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nottingham:

  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47

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 comparing the travel costs between Nottingham 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 Nottingham Expensive? and Is Rotterdam Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Nottingham or Rotterdam?

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

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

In July, Nottingham is generally around the same temperature as Rotterdam. Daily temperatures in Nottingham average around 16°C (62°F), and Rotterdam fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

In Rotterdam, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Nottingham often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Rotterdam. Nottingham gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rotterdam receives 202 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets less rain in July than Rotterdam. Nottingham gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nottingham 16°C (62°F) 
    Rotterdam 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Rotterdam in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Nottingham and Rotterdam. Many travelers come to Nottingham for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, many visitors come to Rotterdam in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Nottingham is around the same temperature as Rotterdam in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nottingham averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Rotterdam fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Nottingham usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Rotterdam during autumn. Nottingham gets 112 hours of sunny skies, while Rotterdam receives 105 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Rotterdam. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nottingham 11°C (52°F) 
    Rotterdam 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Rotterdam in the Winter?

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

Rotterdam can be very cold during winter. Nottingham can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Nottingham is much warmer than Rotterdam. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nottingham in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Rotterdam averages at about 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Nottingham often gets more sunshine than Rotterdam. Nottingham gets 61 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rotterdam receives 47 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets less rain in January than Rotterdam. Nottingham gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nottingham 4°C (39°F) 
    Rotterdam 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Rotterdam in the Spring?

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

In April, Nottingham is generally around the same temperature as Rotterdam. Daily temperatures in Nottingham average around 8°C (46°F), and Rotterdam fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Nottingham usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Rotterdam during spring. Nottingham gets 151 hours of sunny skies, while Rotterdam receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Rotterdam. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nottingham 8°C (46°F) 
    Rotterdam 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Rotterdam and Nottingham

Nottingham Rotterdam
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 50 mm (2 in) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)