A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Orkney Islands vs. Rotterdam for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Orkney Islands 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 Orkney Islands and Rotterdam can help you decide which place is right for you.

Orkney Islands

Orkney Islands is a tranquil, natural, and pristine archipelago. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and beaches.

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.

Orkney Islands and Rotterdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Orkney Islands or Rotterdam?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rotterdam. Although Orkney Islands and Rotterdam are popular destinations, Rotterdam has more sights and attractions for tourists. Rotterdam is very popular for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Orkney Islands attracts visitors for its food, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Orkney Islands is famous for its sandy beaches, serene landscape, and well-preserved Neolithic sights. 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

How is Orkney Islands different from Rotterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Orkney Islands or Rotterdam?

You'll find a number of nice museums and attractions in both Rotterdam and Orkney Islands.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Orkney Islands. The islands is home to a number of archaeological ruins including the stone age village of Skara Brae and the neolithic chambered cairn of Maes Howee. Also check out impressive Ring of Brodgar stone circle as well as the oldest dwelling in the UK, the Knap of Howar on Papa Westray.

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 Orkney Islands or Rotterdam? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Orkney Islands 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.

Orkney Islands has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find so many local products on the islands. It's famous for its local beef, lamb, salmon, and seafood, but you'll also find cheeses and produce. There are two breweries on the island as well. Many people pick up some items that they take home with them.

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 Orkney Islands or Rotterdam Better for Nightlife?

Rotterdam is great for its evening party scene. However, Orkney Islands is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Many people head to Rotterdam for the nightlife scene. 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.

Orkney Islands is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Orkney Islands or Rotterdam Better for Beaches?

Orkney Islands is great for the beach. However, Rotterdam is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Orkney Islands for it's beautiful beaches. The archipelago has hundreds of miles of beaches that feel serene and remote. If you're looking for a tranquil setting that is natural and untouched, you'll have many to choose from. Some of the best beaches on the islands include Tresness Beach, Grobust Beach, and Sands of Evie Beach.

Rotterdam is not a beach destination.

Is Orkney Islands or Rotterdam Better for Hiking?

Orkney Islands is great for hiking. However, Rotterdam is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Orkney Islands for the hiking trails. Rolling hills and rugged landscapes make for relaxing and beautiful walks. There are also many archaeological ruins that you can explore. Favorite hikes in the area include Balfour Village and Mill Dam, Birsay Whalebone, and Birwick to Barth Head.

Rotterdam is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orkney Islands or Rotterdam?

Rotterdam is great for its shopping areas. However, Orkney Islands 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.

Orkney Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Orkney Islands or Rotterdam Better for Families?

Rotterdam is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Orkney Islands is not as popular, but is still a nice archipelago for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Rotterdam. Fun activities for kids include Miniworld Rotterdam, the Kids Marina, and Fun Forest, which has ziplines and a ropes course.

Orkney Islands is a family-friendly place to visit. Exploring the beaches is one of the best way to spend your days with kids. There are also several places you can take the kids like Barony Mill, Skate Rumple Alpaca Farm, Corrigall Farm Museum, and Kirbuster Farm Museum.

Is Orkney Islands or Rotterdam Better for Couples?

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

Orkney Islands is a great archipelago if you're traveling as a couple. Nature lovers will enjoy the stunning beaches and beautiful natural setting. There are also some great restaurants and even live music performances that make for a fun date night.

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

Is Orkney Islands or Rotterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Orkney Islands is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Orkney Islands. If camping is your style, you'll find some great campgrounds and campsites that make the most of this beautiful natural setting.

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 Orkney Islands or Rotterdam Better for Students?

Rotterdam is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Orkney Islands is not popular with students.

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

Orkney Islands is not popular with students.

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

Rotterdam is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Orkney Islands is not as popular, but is still a nice archipelago for its public transit.

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

Orkney Islands has a few public transit options. Buses travel to many parts of the islands and many islands are connected by ferries.

Is Orkney Islands or Rotterdam a more walkable city?

Rotterdam is great for its ease of walking around. However, Orkney Islands is not a walkable destination.

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

Orkney Islands is not a walkable destination.

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

Should I spend more time in Rotterdam or Orkney Islands?

How long in Orkney Islands or Rotterdam?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Orkney Islands 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 Orkney Islands.

One day in Orkney Islands or Rotterdam?

You'll find food and museums around the archipelago of Orkney Islands. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

Because Rotterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Orkney Islands or Rotterdam?

You'll find museums and food around the tranquil destination of Orkney Islands. 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 archipelago offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Rotterdam is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Orkney Islands or Rotterdam?

You'll find food and museums around the natural archipelago of Orkney Islands. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this archipelago makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this archipelago has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rotterdam. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Orkney Islands or Rotterdam?

Orkney Islands is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Orkney Islands, 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 port city of Rotterdam. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom, The Best River Cruises from Amsterdam, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Netherlands.

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

When is the best time to visit Orkney Islands 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 Orkney Islands or Rotterdam in the Summer?

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

Orkney Islands is cooler than Rotterdam in the summer. The daily temperature in Orkney Islands averages around 12°C (54°F) in July, and Rotterdam fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

It's quite sunny in Rotterdam. Orkney Islands usually receives less sunshine than Rotterdam during summer. Orkney Islands gets 129 hours of sunny skies, while Rotterdam receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Orkney Islands usually receives less rain than Rotterdam. Orkney Islands gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Rotterdam in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Orkney Islands is cooler than Rotterdam. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Orkney Islands in October average around 9°C (48°F), and Rotterdam averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Orkney Islands often gets less sunshine than Rotterdam. Orkney Islands gets 73 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rotterdam receives 105 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Orkney Islands. Orkney Islands usually gets more rain in October than Rotterdam. Orkney Islands gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Rotterdam in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Orkney Islands and Rotterdam. The winter months attract visitors to Orkney Islands because of the museums and the cuisine. Also, 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 Orkney Islands can be very cold. In January, Orkney Islands is generally much warmer than Rotterdam. Daily temperatures in Orkney Islands average around 4°C (39°F), and Rotterdam fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Orkney Islands usually receives less sunshine than Rotterdam during winter. Orkney Islands gets 29 hours of sunny skies, while Rotterdam receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

Orkney Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Orkney Islands usually receives more rain than Rotterdam. Orkney Islands gets 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Rotterdam in the Spring?

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

Orkney Islands is cooler than Rotterdam in the spring. The daily temperature in Orkney Islands averages around 6°C (43°F) in April, and Rotterdam fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, Orkney Islands often gets less sunshine than Rotterdam. Orkney Islands gets 135 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rotterdam receives 158 hours of full sun.

Orkney Islands usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Rotterdam. Orkney Islands gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rotterdam and Orkney Islands