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

Should you visit Rotterdam or Bordeaux?

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 Bordeaux. 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.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a historical, elegant, and charming city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Rotterdam and Bordeaux: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rotterdam or Bordeaux?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Bordeaux than Rotterdam. While Rotterdam is larger than Bordeaux, Bordeaux has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bordeaux is more popular for its food, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Rotterdam is known for its nightlife and big city activities. Bordeaux is more touristy than Rotterdam and is popular for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. It is also home to Cathédrale Saint-André. Rotterdam is popular for its modern architecture, the cube houses, and the market hall.

How is Rotterdam different from Bordeaux?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of good museums and attractions in both Bordeaux 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.

Bordeaux is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The city has many historical landmarks and museums to explore. Cathédrale Saint-André, Tour Le Grand-Théâtre, and Basilique Saint-Seurin are all notable monuments that are worth visiting.

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

Bordeaux is an amazing city to visit 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.

Eat your way through Bordeaux, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Both food and wine are a major draw to this culinary city, which is known for its pastries and rich flavors. Popular local dishes include grilled duck, duck foie gras, and canelés.

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 Rotterdam or Bordeaux Better for Nightlife?

Rotterdam is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Rotterdam know how to have a good time. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Bordeaux has a few options to choose from. The city comes to life at night with dance clubs, wine bars, student pubs, and more.

Is Rotterdam or Bordeaux Better for its Old Town?

Bordeaux is a good destination for its historic old town charm. However, Rotterdam does not have a historic old town.

Bordeaux has an old town worth visiting. The old town is between Cours de l'Intendance and rue Peyronnet. The area has many distinct neighborhoods, monuments, and historical buildings.

Rotterdam does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Rotterdam or Bordeaux?

If you're looking to go shopping, Rotterdam and Bordeaux both offer plenty of superb spots.

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.

Bordeaux is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has a mix of luxury fashion brands, jewelry shops, perfume suppliers, and leather goods. There are department stores, local boutiques, and pedestrian shopping areas that you can explore.

Is Rotterdam or Bordeaux Better for Families?

Rotterdam is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bordeaux 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.

Bordeaux offers lots of family activities. The city has a number of parks and playgrounds as well as museums, including a kid's science museum. Kids also enjoy splashing around in the Miroir d’eau, which is the world's largest water mirror.

Is Rotterdam or Bordeaux Better for Couples?

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

Bordeaux is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Wine lovers will enjoy an amazing weekend in this beautiful city. Some of the most romantic activities include wine walks, river cruises, and exploring scenic gardens.

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

Is Rotterdam or Bordeaux Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Rotterdam and Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux. There are a handful of hostels and a diversity of activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Is Rotterdam or Bordeaux Better for Students?

For students, both Rotterdam and Bordeaux are superb places to visit.

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

Bordeaux is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. The city has a great student atmosphere and a unique culture with a diversity of activities. It's grown in popularity with students, and the prices have climbed a bit over the past few years.

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

Rotterdam and Bordeaux both offer superb public transit to get you around.

Rotterdam offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are trams, buses, metros, and even a ferry.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Bordeaux. There are buses, trams and a ferry that runs along the river.

Is Rotterdam or Bordeaux a more walkable city?

Rotterdam and Bordeaux are superb when it comes to walkability.

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

Bordeaux is very walkable. The city has many pedestrian areas and large squares to explore.

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

Should I spend more time in Bordeaux or Rotterdam?

How long in Rotterdam or Bordeaux?

In either Rotterdam or Bordeaux, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Bordeaux than Rotterdam because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Rotterdam, and 2-5 days is enough time in Bordeaux.

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

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

One day in Rotterdam or Bordeaux?

Rotterdam is a big city with plenty to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Bordeaux. 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.

A weekend in Rotterdam or Bordeaux?

Rotterdam is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this port city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Rotterdam, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical destination of Bordeaux. 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 Bordeaux?

Rotterdam is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find nightlife and food around the elegant city of Bordeaux. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Rotterdam or Bordeaux?

Rotterdam is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This port city offers something for everyone.

Bordeaux 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Rotterdam or Bordeaux?

Rotterdam has a larger population, and is about 99% larger than the population of Bordeaux. When comparing the sizes of Rotterdam and Bordeaux, 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 Bordeaux?

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 Bordeaux in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Rotterdam as well as Bordeaux. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Rotterdam this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bordeaux for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Rotterdam is generally cooler than Bordeaux. Daily temperatures in Rotterdam average around 17°C (62°F), and Bordeaux fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bordeaux. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Rotterdam this time of the year. In the summer, Rotterdam often gets less sunshine than Bordeaux. Rotterdam gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 276 hours of full sun.

Rotterdam usually gets more rain in July than Bordeaux. Rotterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Bordeaux in the Autumn?

Both Bordeaux and Rotterdam are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Rotterdam for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Bordeaux in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Rotterdam is cooler than Bordeaux in the autumn. The daily temperature in Rotterdam averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Bordeaux fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Rotterdam usually receives less sunshine than Bordeaux during autumn. Rotterdam gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 165 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Rotterdam usually receives less rain than Bordeaux. Rotterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Bordeaux in the Winter?

Both Bordeaux and Rotterdam during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Rotterdam in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bordeaux for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Rotterdam can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Rotterdam is much colder than Bordeaux. Typically, the winter temperatures in Rotterdam in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Bordeaux averages at about 6°C (43°F).

In the winter, Rotterdam often gets less sunshine than Bordeaux. Rotterdam gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 86 hours of full sun.

Bordeaux gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Rotterdam usually gets less rain in January than Bordeaux. Rotterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Bordeaux in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Rotterdam and Bordeaux. Most visitors come to Rotterdam for the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Bordeaux because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Rotterdam is generally much colder than Bordeaux. Daily temperatures in Rotterdam average around 8°C (46°F), and Bordeaux fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Rotterdam usually receives less sunshine than Bordeaux during spring. Rotterdam gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 190 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Rotterdam usually receives less rain than Bordeaux. Rotterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bordeaux and Rotterdam