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

Should you visit Rotterdam or Auxerre?

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 Auxerre. 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 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.

Auxerre

Auxerre is a undiscovered, authentic, and under-rated town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the food and museums.

Rotterdam and Auxerre: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Rotterdam or Auxerre?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rotterdam. Although Rotterdam and Auxerre are popular destinations, Rotterdam has more sights and attractions for tourists. Rotterdam is very popular for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Auxerre attracts visitors for its small town charm. Rotterdam is famous for its modern architecture, the cube houses, and the market hall. It is also well known for The Cube Houses. Auxerre is famous for its food, wine, and art history.

The Cube Houses
The Cube Houses

How is Rotterdam different from Auxerre?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rotterdam
Auxerre

You'll find a number of nice museums and attractions in both Auxerre 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.

Auxerre is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Although the town is often overlooked by tourists, there are many nice cathedrals and churches around town.


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

Rotterdam
Auxerre

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

Auxerre offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The town is a the heart of the wine industry, so you'll find many great restaurants where you can enjoy local food and wine.

Is Rotterdam or Auxerre Better for Nightlife?

Rotterdam
Auxerre

Rotterdam is great for its evening party scene. However, Auxerre is not a good destination for 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.

Most people don't head to Auxerre specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It has a quiet nightlife with some nice bars and pubs.

Is the Shopping Better in Rotterdam or Auxerre?

Rotterdam
Auxerre

Rotterdam is great for its shopping areas. However, Auxerre 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.

Auxerre is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Rotterdam or Auxerre Better for Families?

Rotterdam
Auxerre

Rotterdam is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Auxerre is a family-friendly place to visit. There's the Zoo de La Fleche and the Aquarium de Touraine. You can also wander through Musee de l'Avallon or des Plantes.

Is Rotterdam or Auxerre Better for Couples?

Rotterdam
Auxerre

Rotterdam and Auxerre both nice 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.

Auxerre is a nice destination for couples. There are many great eateries as well nice architecture and, of course, excellent wine.

Is Rotterdam or Auxerre Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rotterdam
Auxerre

Rotterdam is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Auxerre is not a good destination for backpackers.

Rotterdam is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of hostels around town as well as a good nightlife that appeals to backpackers.

Auxerre is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a popular stop off on the backpacker circuit, but you will find some affordable accommodation options.


Is Rotterdam or Auxerre Better for Students?

Rotterdam
Auxerre

Rotterdam is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Auxerre 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.

Auxerre is not popular with students.

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

Rotterdam
Auxerre

Rotterdam is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Auxerre has a few public transit options. There are buses around town.

Is Rotterdam or Auxerre a more walkable city?

Rotterdam
Auxerre

Rotterdam is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

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

Auxerre is somewhat walkable. The center is walkable but it is a bit more difficult to navigate than some nearby towns.


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

Should I spend more time in Auxerre or Rotterdam?

How long in Rotterdam or Auxerre?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Rotterdam or Auxerre to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Rotterdam than Auxerre because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Rotterdam, and 1-2 days is enough time in Auxerre.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rotterdam than Auxerre 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 Rotterdam or Auxerre? Ideal Length of Stay
    Rotterdam 1-3 
    Auxerre 1-2

One day in Rotterdam or Auxerre?

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 food and museums around the town of Auxerre. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Auxerre has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Rotterdam or Auxerre?

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 food around the undiscovered destination of Auxerre. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Rotterdam or Auxerre?

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 food and museums when visiting the authentic town of Auxerre. 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.


A week in Rotterdam or Auxerre?

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.

Auxerre 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best River Cruises from Amsterdam, The Best Bicycle Tours in Netherlands, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, and The Best 2-Week Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Auxerre or Rotterdam?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Rotterdam is €152, while the average daily cost in Auxerre is €113. 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 Rotterdam and Auxerre in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Rotterdam 77
    Auxerre 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Rotterdam 154
    Auxerre 102
Compare Hotels in Rotterdam and Auxerre

Looking for a hotel in Rotterdam or Auxerre? 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 Rotterdam


Hotels in Auxerre


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: Rotterdam Hotel Prices and Auxerre Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Rotterdam 26
    Auxerre 46

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Rotterdam

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

  • Private Minivan Transfer from Rotterdam: $295
  • Private Minivan Transfer from Rotterdam : $273
  • Private Transfer From Rotterdam to Amsterdam, With a 2 Hour Stop: $240
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam City to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: $208
  • Private Rotterdam Cruise Port Departure Transfer to Amsterdam: $169
  • Private Direct Transfer from Rotterdam to Amsterdam: $169
  • Private transfer Schiphol (AMS) to/from Rotterdam.: $167
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam to Amsterdam: $165
  • Private taxi transfer from Rotterdam to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: $165
  • Private Rotterdam Cruise Port Departure Transfer to AMS Schiphol Airport : $164
  • Rotterdam Airport RTM Round-Trip Private Transfer: $162
  • Private transfer from Rotterdam cruise port to Amsterdam: $160

Is it cheaper to fly into Rotterdam or Auxerre?

Prices for flights to both Auxerre and Rotterdam 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
    Rotterdam 54
    Auxerre 34

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.
    Rotterdam 32
    Auxerre 18

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

Tours and Activities in Auxerre

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

  • Chocolate Tour with Tasting: $16
  • Touristic highlights of Auxerre a Private half day tour (4 Hours) with a local: $112
  • e-Mehari Tour et dégustation Chablis Clotilde Davenne: $92

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Rotterdam 19
    Auxerre 6.14

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Auxerre

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Auxerre:

  • From Dutch Barge Full-Day Cruise with Wine Tasting: $85
  • Chablis & Northern Burgundy Wine Tour: $273


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

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


Which is Bigger, Rotterdam or Auxerre?

Rotterdam has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Auxerre. When comparing the sizes of Rotterdam and Auxerre, 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 Auxerre?

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 Rotterdam or Auxerre in the Summer?

Both Auxerre and Rotterdam are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Rotterdam for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Auxerre in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Rotterdam is cooler than Auxerre in the summer. The daily temperature in Rotterdam averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Auxerre fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Auxerre. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Rotterdam. Rotterdam usually receives less sunshine than Auxerre during summer. Rotterdam gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Auxerre receives 255 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Rotterdam usually receives more rain than Auxerre. Rotterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Rotterdam 17°C (62°F) 
    Auxerre 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Rotterdam or Auxerre in the Autumn?

Both Auxerre and Rotterdam during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Rotterdam in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Auxerre for the small town atmosphere during these months.

In the autumn, Rotterdam is cooler than Auxerre. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Rotterdam in October average around 11°C (51°F), and Auxerre averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Rotterdam often gets less sunshine than Auxerre. Rotterdam gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auxerre receives 126 hours of full sun.

Rotterdam usually gets more rain in October than Auxerre. Rotterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Rotterdam 11°C (51°F) 
    Auxerre 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Rotterdam or Auxerre in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Rotterdam and Auxerre. Most visitors come to Rotterdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Auxerre because of the museums and the cuisine.

The weather in Auxerre can be very cold. Rotterdam can be very cold during winter. In January, Rotterdam is generally cooler than Auxerre. Daily temperatures in Rotterdam average around 2°C (36°F), and Auxerre fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Rotterdam usually receives less sunshine than Auxerre during winter. Rotterdam gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Auxerre receives 53 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Rotterdam usually receives more rain than Auxerre. Rotterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Rotterdam 2°C (36°F) 
    Auxerre 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Rotterdam or Auxerre in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Rotterdam as well as Auxerre. The spring months attract visitors to Rotterdam because of the activities around the city. Also, the small town charm are the main draw to Auxerre this time of year.

Rotterdam is cooler than Auxerre in the spring. The daily temperature in Rotterdam averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Auxerre fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Rotterdam often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Auxerre. Rotterdam gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auxerre receives 167 hours of full sun.

Rotterdam usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Auxerre. Rotterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Rotterdam 8°C (46°F) 
    Auxerre 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Auxerre and Rotterdam

Rotterdam Auxerre
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 3°C (37°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in) 10°C (50°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 19°C (66°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 5°C (41°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)