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

Should you visit Rotterdam or Glencoe?

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 Glencoe. 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. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Glencoe

Glencoe is a picturesque, natural, and serene village. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the food and hiking.

Rotterdam and Glencoe: 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
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Rotterdam or Glencoe?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rotterdam. Although Rotterdam and Glencoe are popular destinations, Rotterdam has more sights and attractions for tourists. Rotterdam is very popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Glencoe attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Glencoe is more touristy than Rotterdam and is popular for its mountaineering, hiking, and beautiful natural setting. Rotterdam is famous for its modern architecture, the cube houses, and the market hall. It is also well known for The Cube Houses.

The Cube Houses
The Cube Houses

How is Rotterdam different from Glencoe?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rotterdam
Glencoe

Rotterdam is a port city with good options for its museums and landmarks. However, Glencoe does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Glencoe does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Rotterdam
Glencoe

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Rotterdam and Glencoe 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.

Glencoe offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Local specialties include seafood and pub food. You'll also find plenty of whisky and local beer. There are a variety of dining options with local pubs alongside fine dining restaurants.

Is Rotterdam or Glencoe Better for Nightlife?

Rotterdam
Glencoe

Rotterdam is well known for its evening party scene. However, Glencoe is not particularly known for nightlife.

Rotterdam is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Glencoe doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are a handful of bars where you can relax with local whisky or beer.

Is Rotterdam or Glencoe Better for Hiking?

Rotterdam
Glencoe

Glencoe is great for hiking. However, Rotterdam is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Glencoe for the hiking trails. The area has dramatic hikes and stunning landscapes. Some of the best walks through the countryside include Inchree Falls, Grey Mare's Tail & Mamore Lodge, and The Two Lairigs.

Rotterdam is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Rotterdam or Glencoe?

Rotterdam
Glencoe

Rotterdam is well known for its shopping areas. However, Glencoe is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Glencoe is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Rotterdam or Glencoe Better for Families?

Rotterdam
Glencoe

Both Rotterdam and Glencoe are very good 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.

Glencoe is a very family-friendly place to visit. Take a steam train along the Harry Potter Line. You'll feel like you're aboard the Hogwarts Express. You can also visit the Natural History Center, hike around the Glencoe National Nature Center, or visit the Glencoe Folk Museum.

Is Rotterdam or Glencoe Better for Couples?

Rotterdam
Glencoe

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

Glencoe is a great village if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy nature, hiking, and stunning scenery will enjoy a visit to this beautiful area.

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


Is Rotterdam or Glencoe Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rotterdam
Glencoe

Rotterdam is a port city with good options for backpackers. However, Glencoe is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Rotterdam is a good port city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of hostels around town as well as a good nightlife that appeals to backpackers.

Glencoe is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It can be challenging to reach without a car and the surrounding countryside also requires a vehicle. There is some great camping available in the area.

Is Rotterdam or Glencoe Better for Students?

Rotterdam
Glencoe

Rotterdam is well known for students. However, Glencoe is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Rotterdam. The city has a great job market and a lot of activities that appeal to international students.

Glencoe is not popular with students.

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

Rotterdam
Glencoe

Rotterdam is well known for its public transit. However, Glencoe is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Rotterdam. There are trams, buses, metros, and even a ferry.

Public transit is mostly limited in Glencoe. There are local buses, but it's much easier to make the most of your visit if you have a vehicle.


Is Rotterdam or Glencoe a more walkable city?

Rotterdam
Glencoe

Rotterdam is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Glencoe is not particularly known for its walkability.

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

Glencoe is generally not a very walkable port city. It's easier to fully experience the area if you have your own vehicle.

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

Should I spend more time in Glencoe or Rotterdam?

How long in Rotterdam or Glencoe?

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

Families should spend more time in Rotterdam than Glencoe. 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.

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

One day in Rotterdam or Glencoe?

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 around the village of Glencoe. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Glencoe has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Rotterdam or Glencoe?

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 food around the beautiful destination of Glencoe. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this village has to offer. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Rotterdam or Glencoe?

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 when visiting the serene village of Glencoe. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Rotterdam or Glencoe?

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.

Glencoe is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Historical Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Glencoe 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 Glencoe is €137. 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 Glencoe in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Rotterdam 77
    Glencoe 69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Rotterdam 154
    Glencoe 138
Compare Hotels in Rotterdam and Glencoe

Looking for a hotel in Rotterdam or Glencoe? 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 Glencoe


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Rotterdam 26
    Glencoe 43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Rotterdam

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

  • Amsterdam Schiphol Airport(AMS) to Rotterdam- Round-Trip Transfer: $131
  • Private Direct Transfer from Rotterdam to Amsterdam: $169
  • Private Minivan Transfer from Rotterdam: $295
  • Private Minivan Transfer from Rotterdam : $273
  • Private Rotterdam Cruise Port Departure Transfer to AMS Schiphol Airport : $164
  • Private Rotterdam Cruise Port Departure Transfer to Amsterdam: $169
  • Private Transfer From Rotterdam to Amsterdam, With a 2 Hour Stop: $240
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam Airport (RTM) to IJmuiden Port: $61
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam City to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: $208
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam Cruise Port to Amsterdam hotels: $98
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam Cruise Port to Rotterdam hotels: $38
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam Cruise Port to Rotterdam hotels: $60

Is it cheaper to fly into Rotterdam or Glencoe?

Prices for flights to both Glencoe 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
    Glencoe 38

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

Typical Food Prices in Glencoe

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Glencoe:


  • Lunch for 2
    54
  • Lunch for 2
    27

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Rotterdam 32
    Glencoe 34

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 Glencoe

Here are a few actual costs in Glencoe for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Evening Cruise in Scotland: $46
  • From Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glenoce & The Highlands Day Tour: $61
  • From Edinburgh: Magical Highlands Tour with Hogwarts Express: $219
  • Loch Linnhe Rib Adventures in Aurora: $64
  • Private Walking Tour in Fort William Town Centre : $13
  • Seal Island Cruise Tour: $46

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Rotterdam 19
    Glencoe 7.91

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


When comparing the travel costs between Rotterdam and Glencoe, we can see that Rotterdam is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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