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

Should you visit Rotterdam or Anchorage?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Rotterdam and Anchorage. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

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 nightlife, food, and shopping.

Anchorage

Anchorage is a breathtaking, cultural, and artsy city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Rotterdam and Anchorage: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rotterdam or Anchorage?

You'll generally find more things to do in Rotterdam than Anchorage. Rotterdam is bigger than Anchorage, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Rotterdam is better known for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Anchorage is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Anchorage is more touristy than Rotterdam and is popular for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture. Rotterdam is well known for its modern architecture, the cube houses, and the market hall. Also, Rotterdam is famous for The Cube Houses.

The Cube Houses

How is Rotterdam different from Anchorage?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of notable museums and attractions in both Anchorage and Rotterdam.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Rotterdam. 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.

Anchorage is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. While most people visit for the outdoor experiences, there are a few museums where you can learn about the local culture and wildlife. Popular museums include the the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center, the Alaska Aviation Museum, and the Alaska Museum of Science and Nature.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Rotterdam and Anchorage can be difficult as they are each notable in their own way.

Rotterdam is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city's restaurant scene is diverse. There are ethnic restaurants, vegan restaurants, local restaurants, and some popular chains.

Anchorage offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Food is expensive in town, but there are some unique local specialties that you must try. Many restaurants offer fresh seafood and local meats. Favorites include yak meat, king crab, and fresh oysters.

Is Rotterdam or Anchorage Better for Nightlife?

Rotterdam is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Anchorage is not a good city for nightlife and partying.

Rotterdam offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Anchorage. The town's nightlife mostly consists of local bars where you can hang out. Check out Koot's, which is a longstanding favorite.

Is Rotterdam or Anchorage Better for Hiking?

Anchorage is an amazing city to visit for hiking. However, Rotterdam is not a hiking destination.

Anchorage is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The town is surrounded by wilderness and it's not hard to escape into nature. You can choose between short walks, long day trips, and multi-day treks, with everything in between available as well. There are more than 300 miles of hiking trails near town and several favorites include Byron Glacier Trail, Thunderbird Falls Trail, and Flattop Mountain.

Rotterdam is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Rotterdam or Anchorage?

Rotterdam is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Anchorage. There are plenty of local gift shops and boutiques where you can pick up local Alaskan crafts and products. There's no sales tax, but prices can still be a bit steep. But if you're looking for something uniquely local to remember your trip, you don't have to look hard.

Is Rotterdam or Anchorage Better for Families?

Rotterdam is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Anchorage is a family-friendly port city. Kids who appreciate nature will appreciate this unique setting. Everyone will enjoy a glacier cruise, but you can hang out with the locals in Westchester Lagoon, see the animals at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and learn about the area at the Anchorage Museum.

Is Rotterdam or Anchorage Better for Couples?

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

Anchorage is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city makes a good base for couples who want to explore the surrounding beauty. The landscapes make a beautiful backdrop for a romantic trip, and the adventure activities will make for an unforgettable experience. There are plenty of outdoor activities and adventure sports that couples can enjoy together and the beauty of the region is breathtaking.

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

Is Rotterdam or Anchorage Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Rotterdam and Anchorage are notable places to visit.

Plenty of backpackers visit Rotterdam. There are a number of hostels around town as well as a good nightlife that appeals to backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Anchorage. There are a few good budget places to stay, and backpackers will also have plenty of outdoor wilderness to explore near town. It's important to remember that Alaska is known for its challenging wilderness so, unless you're experienced, you should take a guide.

Is Rotterdam or Anchorage Better for Students?

Rotterdam is a well-known place for students. However, Anchorage 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.

Anchorage is not popular with students.

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

Rotterdam is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Anchorage is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Rotterdam is fairly effecient and thorough. There are trams, buses, metros, and even a ferry.

Public transit is quite limited in Anchorage. There is the People Mover bus system that transports riders around town, but to truly experience the region, you must have a car.

Is Rotterdam or Anchorage a more walkable city?

Rotterdam is a well-known place for its walkability. However, Anchorage is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

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

Anchorage is generally not a very walkable port city. The downtown area is compact so you can wander to the nearby shops and restaurants on foot, but most people visit with the goal of exploring outside of town. For that you need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Anchorage or Rotterdam?

How long in Rotterdam or Anchorage?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Rotterdam and Anchorage. In our opinion, Rotterdam has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Rotterdam than Anchorage. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

One day in Rotterdam or Anchorage?

People visit Rotterdam because there is so much to do. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Rotterdam has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Anchorage. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Anchorage has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Rotterdam or Anchorage?

People visit Rotterdam because there is so much to do. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find museums and food around the outdoorsy destination of Anchorage. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Five days in Rotterdam or Anchorage?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the modern port city of Rotterdam. 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the scenic city of Anchorage. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Rotterdam or Anchorage?

Rotterdam 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.

Anchorage is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best River Cruises from Amsterdam, The Best Bicycle Tours in Netherlands, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Rotterdam and Anchorage, we can see that Anchorage is more expensive. And not only is Rotterdam much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Rotterdam is in Europe and Anchorage is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Anchorage would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Anchorage 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 Rotterdam Expensive? and Is Anchorage Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Rotterdam or Anchorage?

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

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 Rotterdam or Anchorage in the Summer?

Both Anchorage and Rotterdam during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Rotterdam for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Anchorage because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Rotterdam is a little warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the summer temperatures in Rotterdam in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Anchorage averages at about 59°F (15°C).

In Anchorage, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Rotterdam. In the summer, Rotterdam often gets less sunshine than Anchorage. Rotterdam gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 240 hours of full sun.

Rotterdam usually gets more rain in July than Anchorage. Rotterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Anchorage receives 1.7 inches (44 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Anchorage in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Rotterdam and Anchorage. The autumn months attract visitors to Rotterdam because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Anchorage this time of year.

It's quite cold in Anchorage in the autumn. In October, Rotterdam is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Rotterdam average around 11°C (51°F), and Anchorage fluctuates around 35°F (2°C).

Rotterdam usually receives less sunshine than Anchorage during autumn. Rotterdam gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 118 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Rotterdam usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Rotterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Anchorage receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Anchorage in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Rotterdam as well as Anchorage. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Rotterdam this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Anchorage for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Anchorage. It's quite cold in Rotterdam in the winter. Rotterdam is much warmer than Anchorage in the winter. The daily temperature in Rotterdam averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Anchorage fluctuates around 15°F (-9°C).

In the winter, Rotterdam often gets less sunshine than Anchorage. Rotterdam gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 80 hours of full sun.

Rotterdam usually gets more rain in January than Anchorage. Rotterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (19 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Anchorage in the Spring?

Both Anchorage and Rotterdam are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Rotterdam for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Anchorage in the spring for the natural beauty.

Anchorage can get quite cold in the spring. In the spring, Rotterdam is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the spring temperatures in Rotterdam in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Anchorage averages at about 36°F (2°C).

It's quite sunny in Anchorage. Rotterdam usually receives less sunshine than Anchorage during spring. Rotterdam gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 233 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Rotterdam usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Rotterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Anchorage and Rotterdam