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

Should you visit Rotterdam or Hannover?

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 Hannover. 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. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Hannover

Hannover is a diverse, vibrant, and cultural 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 Hannover: 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 Hannover?

Both Hannover and Rotterdam have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Rotterdam is better known for its shopping and big city activities, while Hannover is more popular for its historical sights. Hannover is more touristy than Rotterdam and is known for its many parks and gardens as well as its accessibility to the German train system. Rotterdam is well known for its modern architecture, the cube houses, and the market hall.

How is Rotterdam different from Hannover?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rotterdam
Hannover

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

Hannover is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. You'll see many of the city's sights along the Red Thread Trail in the city center. Make sure you check out the New Town Hall, the Royal Gardens of Herrenhausen, and the Lower Saxony State Museum as well.


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

Rotterdam
Hannover

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Rotterdam and Hannover 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.

Hannover offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find classic tearooms, food halls, fine dining restaurants, and markets. Try all of the classic German sausages or sample international dishes in this dynamic city.

Is Rotterdam or Hannover Better for Nightlife?

Rotterdam
Hannover

The vibe at night is excellent in both Rotterdam and Hannover.

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.

Hannover has plenty to do after the sun goes down. There are many students who keep the nightlife scene active. From beer halls to jazz venues, you'll find a diversity of options around town.

Is Rotterdam or Hannover Better for its Old Town?

Rotterdam
Hannover

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

Hannover has an old town worth visiting. Check out the half-timbered buildings, the old churches, and the charming streets around old town.

Rotterdam does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Rotterdam or Hannover?

Rotterdam
Hannover

Rotterdam is a great port city for shopping. Also, Hannover is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Hannover offers some nice shopping areas. Head to the 14th-century Market Church (Marktkirche) and wander around the nearby streets for some of the city's best shopping. Also make sure you check out the city flea market. In addition to boutiques and independent shops, there are also major department stores and large shopping malls in the area.

Is Rotterdam or Hannover Better for Families?

Rotterdam
Hannover

Rotterdam is a great port city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Hannover is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Rotterdam is a very family-friendly destination. Fun activities for kids include Miniworld Rotterdam, the Kids Marina, and Fun Forest, which has ziplines and a ropes course.

Hannover is a family-friendly place to visit. Like many German cities, there are a number of activities geared specifically to kids. Check out the Sea Life Center or the Hannover Zoo. If you're willing to get out of town a bit, there's also Serengeti Park Hodenhagen or Rasti-Land theme park, which has rides and games.

Is Rotterdam or Hannover Better for Couples?

Rotterdam
Hannover

Rotterdam and Hannover both notable destinations for a couple.

Rotterdam is a good port city for couples to visit. It is a modern city with good restaurants and some fun activities.

Hannover is a nice destination for couples. Romantic settings around town include Herrenhäuser Gärten, Berggarten, and Maschpark.


Is Rotterdam or Hannover Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rotterdam
Hannover

For backpackers, both Rotterdam and Hannover 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 Hannover. Some people use the city to split up longer train trips. There are a couple of hostels in town if you decide to stay a night or two.

Is Rotterdam or Hannover Better for Students?

Rotterdam
Hannover

For students, both Rotterdam and Hannover are excellent places to visit.

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

Hannover is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. There are a few great universities in town including Leibniz University, which attract international students. There's also a nice nightlife and easy accessibility to the rest of Germany.

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

Rotterdam
Hannover

Rotterdam and Hannover both offer excellent 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 Hannover. The city has 12 city trains and 38 bus lines.


Is Rotterdam or Hannover a more walkable city?

Rotterdam
Hannover

Rotterdam and Hannover are excellent when it comes to walkability.

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

Hannover is very walkable. There are some nice walkable parts to the city.

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

Should I spend more time in Hannover or Rotterdam?

How long in Rotterdam or Hannover?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Rotterdam or Hannover to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Rotterdam than Hannover because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Rotterdam, and 1-2 days is enough time in Hannover.

Families should spend more time in Rotterdam than Hannover. 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.


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

One day in Rotterdam or Hannover?

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 Hannover. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hannover has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Rotterdam or Hannover?

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 dynamic destination of Hannover. 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 Hannover?

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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the diverse city of Hannover. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Rotterdam or Hannover?

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.

Hannover 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Germany, and The Best Oktoberfest Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Hannover 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 Hannover is €155. 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 Hannover in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Rotterdam 77
    Hannover 85
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Rotterdam 154
    Hannover 170
Compare Hotels in Rotterdam and Hannover

Looking for a hotel in Rotterdam or Hannover? 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 Hannover


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 Hannover Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Rotterdam 26
    Hannover 23

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 Hannover

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

  • Private Direct Transfer From Wolfsburg to Hamburg; English Speaking Driver: $289
  • Private Transfer From Hannover to Hamburg With Sightseeing Stops: $271
  • Private Transfer From Hannover to Hamburg, English Speaking Driver: $212
  • Private Transfer From Hanover City to Bremen City: $94

Is it cheaper to fly into Rotterdam or Hannover?

Prices for flights to both Hannover 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
    Hannover 49

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
    Hannover 35

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 Hannover

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

  • Culinary bike tour: $41
  • Fritz Haarmann murder tour through Hanover's old town: $33
  • Guided tour of the New Town Hall in Hanover: $11
  • Guided tour of the Royal Herrenhausen Gardens: $13
  • Hamelin Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $257
  • Hanno(ver)nascht Culinary city tour: $40
  • Hanover Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $252
  • Hanover: Private Walking tour with A Guide (Private Tour): $120
  • Hanover: SEA LIFE Entry Ticket: $20
  • Hop-on hop-off tour in Hanover in a double-decker bus: $22
  • On the trail of crime - Hannover's Crime Tour: $19
  • Personal Travel & Vacation Photography Walking Tour in Hannover: $186

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Rotterdam 19
    Hannover 34

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 Hannover, we can see that Hannover 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 Hannover Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Rotterdam or Hannover?

Rotterdam has a larger population, and is about 16% larger than the population of Hannover. When comparing the sizes of Rotterdam and Hannover, 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 Hannover?

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 Hannover in the Summer?

Both Hannover and Rotterdam are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. 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 Hannover this time of year.

In the summer, Rotterdam is around the same temperature as Hannover. Typically, the summer temperatures in Rotterdam in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Hannover averages at about 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Rotterdam. Rotterdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hannover during summer. Rotterdam gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Hannover receives 198 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Rotterdam usually receives more rain than Hannover. Rotterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Hannover receives 62 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Rotterdam 17°C (62°F) 
    Hannover 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Rotterdam or Hannover in the Autumn?

Both Hannover and Rotterdam during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Rotterdam this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Hannover for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Rotterdam is generally around the same temperature as Hannover. Daily temperatures in Rotterdam average around 11°C (51°F), and Hannover fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Rotterdam often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hannover. Rotterdam gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hannover receives 104 hours of full sun.

Rotterdam usually gets more rain in October than Hannover. Rotterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Hannover receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Rotterdam 11°C (51°F) 
    Hannover 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Rotterdam or Hannover in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Rotterdam and Hannover. Many travelers come to Rotterdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Hannover in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Hannover can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Rotterdam. Rotterdam is much warmer than Hannover in the winter. The daily temperature in Rotterdam averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Hannover fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

Rotterdam usually receives more sunshine than Hannover during winter. Rotterdam gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Hannover receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Rotterdam usually receives more rain than Hannover. Rotterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Hannover receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Rotterdam 2°C (36°F) 
    Hannover 1°C (33°F)

Should I visit Rotterdam or Hannover in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Rotterdam as well as Hannover. Many visitors come to Rotterdam in the spring for the activities around the city. Additionally, most visitors come to Hannover for the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Rotterdam is around the same temperature as Hannover. Typically, the spring temperatures in Rotterdam in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Hannover averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the spring, Rotterdam often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hannover. Rotterdam gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hannover receives 150 hours of full sun.

Rotterdam usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Hannover. Rotterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Hannover receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Rotterdam 8°C (46°F) 
    Hannover 8°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Hannover and Rotterdam

Rotterdam Hannover
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 1°C (33°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 1°C (35°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 5°C (40°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in) 8°C (47°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 62 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 16°C (61°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 18°C (64°F) 62 mm (2.5 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 17°C (63°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 14°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 10°C (51°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 5°C (42°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Dec 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 2°C (36°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)