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

Should you visit Rotterdam or Graz?

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 Graz. 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. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Graz

Graz is a medieval, cultural, and historical city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Rotterdam and Graz: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Rotterdam or Graz?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rotterdam than Graz, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Rotterdam is more popular for its big city activities, while Graz is known for its museums, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Graz is more touristy than Rotterdam and is known for its many cultural activities, its impressive old town, and its beautiful Baroque architecture. Rotterdam is popular for its modern architecture, the cube houses, and the market hall. It is also home to The Cube Houses.

The Cube Houses
The Cube Houses

How is Rotterdam different from Graz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rotterdam
Graz

Graz is great for its historical sights. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its sights and museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Graz. The old town is among the largest in Europe and it's filled with sights and museums. The Schlossberg and the Clock Tower are among the most iconic sights but other highlights include the GrazMuseum, the Mohren Apotheke's Theriak Museum, a Gothic Franciscan Church, and the Robert Stolz Museum.

Rotterdam is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.


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

Rotterdam
Graz

Graz 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.

Graz has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a huge focus on sustainable dining in town, so you'll find many restaurants that use a farm to table approach. Local ingredients are heavily valued and it's fun to sample the many local flavors. Backhendl is a classic fried chicken dish that you must try.

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 Graz Better for Nightlife?

Rotterdam
Graz

The vibe at night is superb in both Rotterdam and Graz.

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.

Graz has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The large student population means that there's an active nightlife scene that is diverse and fun. There's a wide variety of bars and pubs with almost any music genre you could want. There are also dance clubs for those who are looking for a party.

Is Rotterdam or Graz Better for its Old Town?

Rotterdam
Graz

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

Graz offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The medieval city center is very well preserved and one of the largest in Europe. The city has a lot of hidden charm and quaint streets to explore.

Rotterdam does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Rotterdam or Graz?

Rotterdam
Graz

If you're looking to go shopping, Rotterdam and Graz 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.

Graz is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find a lot of shopping around both Jakominiplatz and Hauptplatz Squares. There are also a number of shopping streets in town including Herrengasse which is filled with shops, restaurants, and more.

Is Rotterdam or Graz Better for Families?

Rotterdam
Graz

Both Rotterdam and Graz are superb 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.

Graz is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the fairytale train and there's also a 4D cinema that is fun for the whole family. In Schlossberg Hill, families should check out The Slide, which is the largest underground slide in the world. Other highlights include a Children's Museum, a Folklife Museum, and a Natural History Museum.

Is Rotterdam or Graz Better for Couples?

Rotterdam
Graz

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

Graz is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. It's filled with culture, history, and amazing food. Couples will appreciate the romantic old town and the many world class sights around town.

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


Is Rotterdam or Graz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rotterdam
Graz

For backpackers, both Rotterdam and Graz 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 Graz. There are hostels and budget-friendly hotels around town that make this a nice town to explore as a backpacker.

Is Rotterdam or Graz Better for Students?

Rotterdam
Graz

For students, both Rotterdam and Graz 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.

Graz is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. It's long been an education center in Austria and students make up a significant portion of the population. It's also a chill city with a relaxed and student-friendly vibe.

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

Rotterdam
Graz

Rotterdam and Graz 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 Graz. There are buses and trams that travel around the town.


Is Rotterdam or Graz a more walkable city?

Rotterdam
Graz

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

Graz is a very easy city to get around on foot. You'll find everything you'd want to see in the old town, which is large, but still compact enough to 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 Graz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Graz or Rotterdam?

How long in Rotterdam or Graz?

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

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

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

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


  • How many days in Rotterdam or Graz? Ideal Length of Stay
    Rotterdam 1-3 
    Graz 2-3

One day in Rotterdam or Graz?

Rotterdam is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

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

Rotterdam is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Graz. 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 Graz?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the trendy big city of Rotterdam. This port city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical city of Graz. 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 Graz?

The high energy port city of Rotterdam offers nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Graz 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 Christmas Market Tours in Austria, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Austria.


Which place is cheaper, Graz 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 Graz is €112. 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 Graz in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Rotterdam 77
    Graz 67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Rotterdam 154
    Graz 134
Compare Hotels in Rotterdam and Graz

Looking for a hotel in Rotterdam or Graz? 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 Graz


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 Graz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Rotterdam 26
    Graz 18

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Graz

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

  • Transfer from Graz Airport to Koper: $207
  • Graz Private Transfer from Graz city centre to Graz Airport: $58
  • Graz Private Transfer from Graz Airport to City centre: $58

Is it cheaper to fly into Rotterdam or Graz?

Prices for flights to both Graz 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
    Graz 32

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
    Graz 13

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 Graz

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

  • 2.5-hour puzzle tour through Graz city center: $16
  • Graz - Private tour including Castle visit: $374
  • Graz Christmas Market Tour: $267
  • Graz Crime Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Graz Enchantment Walking Tour: $238
  • Graz Enchantment Walking Tour: $129
  • Graz Jewish Quarter and Old Town Private Tour: $214
  • Graz Museum: Private Guided Tour: $219
  • Graz Old Town Highlights Private Walking Tour: $195
  • Graz Private Family Friendly Walking Tour: $214
  • Graz Private Family Friendly Walking Tour: $210
  • Graz Private Walking Tour: $235

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Rotterdam 19
    Graz 16

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

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


Which is Bigger, Rotterdam or Graz?

Rotterdam has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Graz. When comparing the sizes of Rotterdam and Graz, 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 Graz?

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 Graz in the Summer?

Both Graz and Rotterdam are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Rotterdam this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Graz for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Rotterdam is generally cooler than Graz. Daily temperatures in Rotterdam average around 17°C (62°F), and Graz fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Graz. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Rotterdam. Rotterdam usually receives less sunshine than Graz during summer. Rotterdam gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Graz receives 236 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Graz. In July, Rotterdam usually receives less rain than Graz. Rotterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Graz receives 126 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Rotterdam 17°C (62°F) 
    Graz 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Rotterdam or Graz in the Autumn?

Both Graz and Rotterdam during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Rotterdam for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Graz in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Rotterdam is cooler than Graz in the autumn. The daily temperature in Rotterdam averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Graz fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Rotterdam often gets less sunshine than Graz. Rotterdam gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Graz receives 139 hours of full sun.

Rotterdam usually gets more rain in October than Graz. Rotterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Graz receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Rotterdam or Graz in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Rotterdam and Graz. Many visitors come to Rotterdam in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Graz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Graz can be very cold during winter. Rotterdam can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Rotterdam is much warmer than Graz. Typically, the winter temperatures in Rotterdam in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Graz averages at about 1°C (34°F).

Rotterdam usually receives less sunshine than Graz during winter. Rotterdam gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Graz receives 95 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Rotterdam usually receives more rain than Graz. Rotterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Graz receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Rotterdam 2°C (36°F) 
    Graz 1°C (34°F)

Should I visit Rotterdam or Graz in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Rotterdam as well as Graz. Most visitors come to Rotterdam for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Graz because of the natural beauty.

In April, Rotterdam is generally much colder than Graz. Daily temperatures in Rotterdam average around 8°C (46°F), and Graz fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

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

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


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Rotterdam 8°C (46°F) 
    Graz 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Graz and Rotterdam

Rotterdam Graz
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 1°C (34°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 3°C (38°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in) 13°C (55°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 18°C (64°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 21°C (70°F) 119 mm (4.7 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 23°C (73°F) 126 mm (5 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 22°C (72°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 2°C (36°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)