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

Should you visit Rotterdam or Dusseldorf?

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 Dusseldorf. 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is a vibrant, historic, and fun-filled 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 Dusseldorf: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rotterdam or Dusseldorf?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dusseldorf. Although Rotterdam and Dusseldorf are roughly the same size, Dusseldorf has more sights and attractions for tourists. Dusseldorf is better known for its food and historical sights, while Rotterdam is more popular for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities. Dusseldorf is more touristy than Rotterdam and is popular for its music and art scene, as well as being the fashion capital of Germany. Also, Dusseldorf is famous for Altstadt (the Old Town). Rotterdam is well known for its modern architecture, the cube houses, and the market hall.

How is Rotterdam different from Dusseldorf?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Dusseldorf is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are museums, palaces, and many cultural sights. Make sure you check out Schloss Benrath, the Rheinturm, the North Rhine-Westphalia Art Collection, and Museum Kunstpalast.

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

Dusseldorf is great 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.

Dusseldorf has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find a mix of regional specialties and international restaurant options. Traditional dishes include Rheinischer Sauerbraten (Rhine style marinated roast), Haxe (shin), Flönz (blood sausage), and Ähzezupp (pea soup).

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 Dusseldorf Better for Nightlife?

Rotterdam is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

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 Dusseldorf has a few options to choose from. You'll find the highest concentration of bars and pubs in the old town area. Try to find a brewerie where you can try Dusseldorf's famous altbier.

Is Rotterdam or Dusseldorf Better for its Old Town?

Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf. The old town is popular for its bars and pubs, which serve up the local altbier. The atmosphere is charming and there are restaurants that spill out onto the streets.

Rotterdam does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Rotterdam or Dusseldorf?

Rotterdam is a great destination for shopping. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 Dusseldorf. Head to the popular shopping street of Königsallee. You'll find luxury brands and boutique shops. The city also has department stores and large shopping malls.

Is Rotterdam or Dusseldorf Better for Families?

Both Rotterdam and Dusseldorf are excellent family-friendly destinations.

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.

Dusseldorf is a very family-friendly place to visit. It has many great playgrounds and parks where kids can run around. Animal lovers will appreciate Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum and Grafenberger Wald which has about 100 animals. If the weather's nice you can head to Unterbacher See, which is a lakefront beach. Other kid-friendly activities in town include the Neanderthal Museum and Museum Kunstpalast.

Is Rotterdam or Dusseldorf Better for Couples?

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

Dusseldorf is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There is live theater, spa hotels, historic palaces, and many parks and gardens where couples can enjoy their time together. Popular activities for couples in town include visiting Rheinturm, taking a Rhine River cruise, and exploring Schloss Dyck.

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

Is Rotterdam or Dusseldorf Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Rotterdam and Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf. There are plenty of hostels and activities around town. There are also affordable restaurants and a nice nightlife scene.

Is Rotterdam or Dusseldorf Better for Students?

Rotterdam is a great destination for students. However, Dusseldorf is not popular with students.

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

Dusseldorf is not popular with students.

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

Dusseldorf is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its public transit.

Public transit in Dusseldorf is top-notch. All of the public transportation in town is operated by Rheinbahn. There's a city railway, (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses. Dusseldorf is also easily connected to the many other nearby towns and cities including Cologne.

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

Is Rotterdam or Dusseldorf a more walkable city?

Rotterdam and Dusseldorf are excellent when it comes to walkability.

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

Dusseldorf is very walkable. It's easy to explore most of the city on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Dusseldorf or Rotterdam?

How long in Rotterdam or Dusseldorf?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Rotterdam and Dusseldorf. In our opinion, Dusseldorf has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Dusseldorf than Rotterdam. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Rotterdam, and 2-3 days is enough time in Dusseldorf.

Families should spend more time in Dusseldorf than Rotterdam. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Dusseldorf, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

One day in Rotterdam or Dusseldorf?

When visiting Rotterdam, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Rotterdam, one day is sufficent for most.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Dusseldorf. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Dusseldorf?

When visiting Rotterdam, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this port city.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Dusseldorf. 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 city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Rotterdam or Dusseldorf?

Rotterdam, a popular port city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the fun-filled city of Dusseldorf. 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 Dusseldorf?

Rotterdam is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Dusseldorf 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Munich, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Rotterdam and Dusseldorf, we can see that Dusseldorf is more expensive. And not only is Rotterdam much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Dusseldorf would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Rotterdam or Dusseldorf?

Dusseldorf has a larger population, and is about 0% larger than the population of Rotterdam. When comparing the sizes of Rotterdam and Dusseldorf, 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 Dusseldorf?

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 Dusseldorf in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Rotterdam as well as Dusseldorf. The summer months attract visitors to Rotterdam because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Dusseldorf this time of year.

In the summer, Rotterdam is cooler than Dusseldorf. Typically, the summer temperatures in Rotterdam in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Dusseldorf averages at about 19°C (66°F).

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 Dusseldorf. Rotterdam gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dusseldorf receives 195 hours of full sun.

Rotterdam usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Dusseldorf. Rotterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Dusseldorf in the Autumn?

Both Dusseldorf and Rotterdam are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Rotterdam this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dusseldorf for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Rotterdam is generally around the same temperature as Dusseldorf. Daily temperatures in Rotterdam average around 11°C (51°F), and Dusseldorf fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Rotterdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Dusseldorf during autumn. Rotterdam gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Dusseldorf receives 112 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Rotterdam usually receives more rain than Dusseldorf. Rotterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Dusseldorf in the Winter?

Both Dusseldorf and Rotterdam during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Rotterdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Dusseldorf in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Dusseldorf can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Rotterdam. Rotterdam is cooler than Dusseldorf in the winter. The daily temperature in Rotterdam averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Dusseldorf fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Rotterdam often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dusseldorf. Rotterdam gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dusseldorf receives 45 hours of full sun.

Rotterdam usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Dusseldorf. Rotterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Dusseldorf in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Rotterdam and Dusseldorf. Many visitors come to Rotterdam in the spring for the activities around the city. Furthermore, most visitors come to Dusseldorf for the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Rotterdam is cooler than Dusseldorf. Typically, the spring temperatures in Rotterdam in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Dusseldorf averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Rotterdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Dusseldorf during spring. Rotterdam gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Dusseldorf receives 155 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Rotterdam usually receives around the same amount of rain as Dusseldorf. Rotterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Dusseldorf and Rotterdam