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

Should you visit Rotterdam or Bamberg?

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 Bamberg. 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.

Bamberg

Bamberg is a storybook, historic, and beautiful town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping.

Rotterdam and Bamberg: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Rotterdam or Bamberg?

You'll generally find more things to do in Rotterdam than Bamberg. Rotterdam is bigger than Bamberg, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Rotterdam is better known for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Bamberg is more popular for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Bamberg is more touristy than Rotterdam and is popular for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings. 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
The Cube Houses

How is Rotterdam different from Bamberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rotterdam
Bamberg

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

Bamberg is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. At the heart of Bamberg is the old town, which is what attracts international tourists from around the world. Make sure you see the Cathedral & Diocesan Museum and the Historical Museum. There's also a brewery museum that is fascinating to wander through.


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

Rotterdam
Bamberg

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Rotterdam and Bamberg 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.

Bamberg offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a number of charming and traditional restaurants in the old town. They have a cozy atmosphere and a small and quaint feel. Many of the local dishes include pork and potatoes and they're often flavored with local beer. Make sure you try the Schäuferla (roasted pork shoulder), Hörnla (a local pastry available at bakeries), and Zwiebeln (stuffed onions).

Is Rotterdam or Bamberg Better for Nightlife?

Rotterdam
Bamberg

Rotterdam is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Bamberg is not a good town 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 Bamberg. While the town isn't known for its nightlife, there are some relaxing bars and pubs around town.

Is Rotterdam or Bamberg Better for its Old Town?

Rotterdam
Bamberg

Bamberg is an amazing town to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Rotterdam does not have a historic old town.

Bamberg offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. With its cobblestone streets, impressive architecture, and beautiful riverside setting, the town's old town is a favorite for many travelers. The buildings have ornate and detailed designs and the bridges are beautiful.

Rotterdam does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Rotterdam or Bamberg?

Rotterdam
Bamberg

Rotterdam is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town 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 Bamberg. Head to the Gardeners' District, where you'll find vendors selling local produce, crafts, and other items. In the old town there are charming German shops that sell Christmas items or other local handicrafts.

Is Rotterdam or Bamberg Better for Families?

Rotterdam
Bamberg

Rotterdam is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Bamberg is a family-friendly port city. The history comes to life with reenactments and historical museums. There are also water activities, playgrounds, and many places where kids can run around and stretch their legs.

Is Rotterdam or Bamberg Better for Couples?

Rotterdam
Bamberg

Bamberg is an amazing town to visit for couples. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for romance.

Bamberg is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Filled with scenic bridges, beautiful gardens, and historic architecture, this is a top destination for a couples getaway. You can enjoy gondola rides and fine dining on a romantic weekend away.

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


Is Rotterdam or Bamberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rotterdam
Bamberg

For backpackers, both Rotterdam and Bamberg 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 Bamberg. There are hostels and a great tourist scene that makes it easy to meet other travelers.

Is Rotterdam or Bamberg Better for Students?

Rotterdam
Bamberg

Rotterdam is a well-known place for students. However, Bamberg is not popular with students.

Rotterdam is a great port city to visit as a student. The city has a great job market and a lot of activities that appeal to international students.

Bamberg is not popular with students.

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

Rotterdam
Bamberg

Rotterdam is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Rotterdam. There are trams, buses, metros, and even a ferry.

Bamberg has some public transit options. There are 28 buses that leave from the Central Bus Station and travel through the region.


Is Rotterdam or Bamberg a more walkable city?

Rotterdam
Bamberg

Bamberg is an amazing town to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its walkability.

Bamberg is a very easy town to get around on foot. The old town is compact enough to easily explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bamberg or Rotterdam?

How long in Rotterdam or Bamberg?

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

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

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

One day in Rotterdam or Bamberg?

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 town of Bamberg. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bamberg has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Rotterdam or Bamberg?

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 scenic destination of Bamberg. 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 town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Rotterdam or Bamberg?

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 shopping when visiting the scenic town of Bamberg. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Rotterdam or Bamberg?

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.

Bamberg 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 Adventure Tours to Germany, and The Best Cultural Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Bamberg 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 Bamberg is €127. 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 Bamberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Rotterdam 77
    Bamberg 75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Rotterdam 154
    Bamberg 150
Compare Hotels in Rotterdam and Bamberg

Looking for a hotel in Rotterdam or Bamberg? 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 Bamberg


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 Bamberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Rotterdam 26
    Bamberg 14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Rotterdam

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

  • Rotterdam to Rotterdam Airport (RTM) - Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • Rotterdam Airport (RTM) to Rotterdam - Arrival Private Transfer: $38
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam hotels to Rotterdam Cruise Port : $38
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam Cruise Port to Rotterdam hotels: $38
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam Port to Rotterdam Airport (RTM): $38
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam Cruise Port to Rotterdam hotels: $60
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam Airport (RTM) to IJmuiden Port: $61
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam hotels to Rotterdam Cruise Port: $61
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam Port to Amsterdam Airport (AMS): $66
  • Rotterdam Airport(RTM) to Rotterdam - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $76
  • Rotterdam Airport RTM Private Transfer to Rotterdam in Sedan Car: $77
  • Rotterdam Private Transfer to Rotterdam Airport RTM in Sedan Car: $81

Is it cheaper to fly into Rotterdam or Bamberg?

Prices for flights to both Bamberg 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
    Bamberg 41

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
    Bamberg 17

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

Tours and Activities in Bamberg

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Bamberg are as follows:

  • Bamberg Countryside Breweries Beer Hike Food Experience (departs Bamberg): $281
  • Bamberg Crime-Trail: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Bamberg Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $240
  • 1-Hour Theatrical Humor Tour with Costumed Guide: $19
  • Altenburg Burg Tour: $14
  • Bar & Club Tour with free drinks & VIP entry: $31
  • City Highlights Walking Tour: $13
  • Guided Beer History Tour with Optional Tasting: $16
  • Guided Historical Culinary Tour: $27
  • Guided Tour of the Gardeners' District: $17
  • Guided Walking Tour: $14
  • Historical Museum Entry Ticket: $8.56

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Rotterdam 19
    Bamberg 19

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 Bamberg

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bamberg:

  • Historical City Tour in German with Brewery Visit: $17
  • Beer & Brewery Tour - 2 Hour: $37


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

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


Which is Bigger, Rotterdam or Bamberg?

Rotterdam has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Bamberg. When comparing the sizes of Rotterdam and Bamberg, 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 Bamberg?

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 Bamberg in the Summer?

Both Bamberg and Rotterdam during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Rotterdam in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bamberg for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Rotterdam is cooler than Bamberg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Rotterdam in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Bamberg averages at about 19°C (67°F).

In Bamberg, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Rotterdam. In the summer, Rotterdam often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg. Rotterdam gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 217 hours of full sun.

Rotterdam usually gets more rain in July than Bamberg. Rotterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Rotterdam 17°C (62°F) 
    Bamberg 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Rotterdam or Bamberg in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Rotterdam and Bamberg. Most visitors come to Rotterdam for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Bamberg because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Rotterdam is generally around the same temperature as Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Rotterdam average around 11°C (51°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Rotterdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg during autumn. Rotterdam gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 107 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Rotterdam usually receives more rain than Bamberg. Rotterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

Should I visit Rotterdam or Bamberg in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Rotterdam as well as Bamberg. The winter months attract visitors to Rotterdam because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bamberg this time of year.

It's quite cold in Bamberg in the winter. The weather in Rotterdam can be very cold. Rotterdam is much warmer than Bamberg in the winter. The daily temperature in Rotterdam averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Bamberg fluctuates around 0°C (33°F).

In the winter, Rotterdam often gets more sunshine than Bamberg. Rotterdam gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 42 hours of full sun.

Rotterdam usually gets more rain in January than Bamberg. Rotterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Rotterdam 2°C (36°F) 
    Bamberg 0°C (33°F)

Should I visit Rotterdam or Bamberg in the Spring?

Both Bamberg and Rotterdam are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city are the main draw to Rotterdam this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bamberg for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Rotterdam is cooler than Bamberg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Rotterdam in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Bamberg averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Rotterdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg during spring. Rotterdam gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 156 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Rotterdam usually receives more rain than Bamberg. Rotterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


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

Typical Weather for Bamberg and Rotterdam

Rotterdam Bamberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 0°C (33°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 6°C (42°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (58°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 19°C (67°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 2°C (35°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)