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

Should you visit Rotterdam or Antwerp?

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 Antwerp. 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 trendy, high energy, and modern port city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Antwerp

Antwerp is a genuine, cultural, and historical port city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Rotterdam and Antwerp: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rotterdam or Antwerp?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Antwerp than Rotterdam. While Rotterdam is larger than Antwerp, Antwerp has more sights and attractions for tourists. Antwerp is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and shopping, while Rotterdam is known for its big city activities. Rotterdam is popular for its modern architecture, the cube houses, and the market hall. Antwerp is popular for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town. It is also home to Antwerpen-Centraal.

How is Rotterdam different from Antwerp?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Antwerp 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 Antwerp?

Antwerp is great for its historical sights. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its sights and museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Antwerp. The city has a number of cathedrals, museums, and art galleries that are fun to explore. The history and culture of the town is best experienced by wandering the streets and soaking up the architecture.

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 Rotterdam or Antwerp? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Rotterdam and Antwerp can be difficult as they are each good 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.

Antwerp offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. People with a sweet tooth will enjoy the chocolates and biscuits that make this city famous. You'll also find plenty of fries and casual dining options to choose from. Local favorites include mussels and fish and chips, and of course, you must try the beer!

Is Rotterdam or Antwerp Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is high quality in both Rotterdam and Antwerp.

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.

Antwerp has plenty to do after the sun goes down. With its large student population and young vibe, you'll find an active nightlife scene around town. Many of the the clubs and bars are concentrated in the docklands, but you'll also find places to hang out everywhere around town.

Is Rotterdam or Antwerp Better for its Old Town?

Antwerp is great for its historic old town charm. However, Rotterdam does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Antwerp. The old city has a long running history and many unique spots to explore. At the heart of the old town is Grote Markt, which is surrounded by beautiful buildings and cobblestone streets. There are a diversity of restaurants including local cuisines, Italian restaurants, and a number of different ethnic food. You'll also find local chocolate shops, waffle vendors, and ice cream.

Rotterdam does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Rotterdam or Antwerp?

Antwerp is an amazing port 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 Antwerp specifically to go shopping. The city has become known for its fashion scene. The main shopping street is Meir, which is where you'll find a variety of European fashion chains. It's also fun to buy chocolates, art, or other souvenirs around town. You'll find both locals and tourists perusing the main shopping areas around town.

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 Rotterdam or Antwerp Better for Families?

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

Rotterdam is a very kid-friendly port city. Fun activities for kids include Miniworld Rotterdam, the Kids Marina, and Fun Forest, which has ziplines and a ropes course.

Antwerp offers lots of family activities. Favorite kid-friendly activities around town include taking a ride on the Ferris Wheel, going to the local zoo, or exploring the indoor play area Plopsa Station. Kids will also enjoy exploring the underground canals or taking a boat ride. Chocolate lovers will have fun checking out the many chocolate shops around town.

Is Rotterdam or Antwerp Better for Couples?

Rotterdam and Antwerp both good destinations for a couple.

Rotterdam is a good port city for couples to visit. It is a modern city with good restaurants and some fun activities.

Antwerp is a nice destination for couples. The city has a wonderful café culture with great restaurants and beautiful neighborhoods to explore. There are many great restaurants as well as plenty of shopping opportunities.

Is Rotterdam or Antwerp Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Rotterdam and Antwerp are good 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 Antwerp. With a handful of hostels and a variety of free activities, this is an affordable place to visit. It's often overlooked by backpackers so those that visit will be rewarded. It has a vibe of authenticity which is great for backpacker's who are a bit jaded from the tourism scene.

Is Rotterdam or Antwerp Better for Students?

For students, both Rotterdam and Antwerp are high quality places to visit.

Many students visit Rotterdam. The city has a great job market and a lot of activities that appeal to international students.

Antwerp is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. There's a good student culture and a lot of activities that give the city a fun and youthful vibe. It's a relatively big city with a lot of transportation connections, so it makes a great base for exploring other areas.

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

Rotterdam is well known for its public transit. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Rotterdam has some very good public transit options. There are trams, buses, metros, and even a ferry.

While Antwerp offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are both tram and bus lines around town. The city also has a large and impressive train station with many connections, making it a good base for exploring other areas.

Is Rotterdam or Antwerp a more walkable city?

Rotterdam and Antwerp are high quality when it comes to walkability.

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

Antwerp is very walkable. The old town can be comfortably explored on foot, particularly the area around Grote Markt.

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

Should I spend more time in Antwerp or Rotterdam?

How long in Rotterdam or Antwerp?

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

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

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

One day in Rotterdam or Antwerp?

Because Rotterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This port city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find shopping and museums around the port city of Antwerp. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Antwerp has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Rotterdam or Antwerp?

Because Rotterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Rotterdam has to offer.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the genuine destination of Antwerp. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Five days in Rotterdam or Antwerp?

Rotterdam is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant port city of Antwerp. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the shopping. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Rotterdam or Antwerp?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rotterdam. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Rotterdam. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Antwerp is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Tours for Seniors to Belgium, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Brussels.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Rotterdam and Antwerp, we can see that Rotterdam is more expensive. And not only is Antwerp much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Antwerp would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Antwerp 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 Antwerp.

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

Which is Bigger, Rotterdam or Antwerp?

Rotterdam has a larger population, and is about 30% larger than the population of Antwerp. When comparing the sizes of Rotterdam and Antwerp, 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 Antwerp?

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 Antwerp in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Rotterdam as well as Antwerp. Many travelers come to Rotterdam for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Antwerp in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Rotterdam is generally around the same temperature as Antwerp. Daily temperatures in Rotterdam average around 17°C (62°F), and Antwerp fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Antwerp. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Rotterdam this time of the year. In the summer, Rotterdam often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Antwerp. Rotterdam gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antwerp receives 202 hours of full sun.

Rotterdam usually gets more rain in July than Antwerp. Rotterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Antwerp in the Autumn?

Both Antwerp and Rotterdam are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Rotterdam in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Antwerp for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

Rotterdam is cooler than Antwerp in the autumn. The daily temperature in Rotterdam averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Antwerp fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

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

In October, Rotterdam usually receives less rain than Antwerp. Rotterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Antwerp in the Winter?

Both Antwerp and Rotterdam during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Rotterdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Antwerp because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Antwerp can be very cold. Rotterdam can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Rotterdam is much colder than Antwerp. Typically, the winter temperatures in Rotterdam in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Antwerp averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Rotterdam often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Antwerp. Rotterdam gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antwerp receives 47 hours of full sun.

Rotterdam usually gets more rain in January than Antwerp. Rotterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Antwerp in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Rotterdam and Antwerp. The spring months attract visitors to Rotterdam because of the activities around the city. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Antwerp this time of year.

In April, Rotterdam is generally cooler than Antwerp. Daily temperatures in Rotterdam average around 8°C (46°F), and Antwerp fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

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

In April, Rotterdam usually receives more rain than Antwerp. Rotterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Antwerp and Rotterdam