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

Should you visit Rotterdam or Koblenz?

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 Koblenz. 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.

Koblenz

Koblenz is a charming, vibrant, and dynamic city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping.

Rotterdam and Koblenz: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Rotterdam or Koblenz?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rotterdam than Koblenz, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Rotterdam is more popular for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Koblenz is known for its historical sights and small town charm. Koblenz is more touristy than Rotterdam and is popular for its location at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, its popularity with river cruises, and its many nearby vineyards. 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 Koblenz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rotterdam
Koblenz

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

Koblenz is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Most visitors head to the historic Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, which can be reached by chairlift. Also make sure you visit the Forum Confluentes, the State Museum, the Romanticum, and the Koblenz Sparkling Wine Museum.


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

Rotterdam
Koblenz

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Rotterdam and Koblenz can be difficult as they are each good 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.

Koblenz offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The city is large enough to have a diversity of restaurants that serve everything from local German specialties to other European dishes. If you want to enjoy some regional cuisine, try the Rheinischer Sauerbraten (marinated beef), Döppekooche (potato cakes), or locally brewed beer.

Is Rotterdam or Koblenz Better for Nightlife?

Rotterdam
Koblenz

Rotterdam is well known for nightlife and partying. However, Koblenz is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

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.

Koblenz doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a smaller city, but there are still pubs around town that attract a crowd. Enjoy the local beer and chat with the locals on a relaxing night out.

Is Rotterdam or Koblenz Better for its Old Town?

Rotterdam
Koblenz

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

Koblenz has an old town worth visiting. The old town is fun to explore with its beautiful churches and quaint ice cream shops.

Rotterdam does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Rotterdam or Koblenz?

Rotterdam
Koblenz

Rotterdam is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Koblenz is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Rotterdam is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Koblenz has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of clothing shops in the old town where you can find a deal or splurge on a new outfit.

Is Rotterdam or Koblenz Better for Families?

Rotterdam
Koblenz

Rotterdam is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Koblenz is not particularly known 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.

For families, Koblenz is not always the best place to visit. Kids will enjoy the chairlift across the river that leads to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. It's also fun to take a stroll along the river, grab ice cream in old town, and play at one of the parks around town.

Is Rotterdam or Koblenz Better for Couples?

Rotterdam
Koblenz

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

Koblenz is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Seeped in romantic walks and historic buildings, couples will enjoy visiting this beautiful German town. Sip Reisling at one of the many restaurants or wander through the quaint old town.

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


Is Rotterdam or Koblenz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rotterdam
Koblenz

For backpackers, both Rotterdam and Koblenz 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 Koblenz. There are a few affordable accommodation options around town. Food is reasonably priced as well so backpackers can enjoy a visit without breaking the bank.

Is Rotterdam or Koblenz Better for Students?

Rotterdam
Koblenz

Rotterdam is well known for students. However, Koblenz 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.

Koblenz is not popular with students.

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

Rotterdam
Koblenz

Rotterdam is well known for its public transit. Also, Koblenz is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Rotterdam has some very good public transit options. There are trams, buses, metros, and even a ferry.

While Koblenz offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses that travel the major routes around town. There's also a cable car that takes you up to the fortress.


Is Rotterdam or Koblenz a more walkable city?

Rotterdam
Koblenz

Rotterdam is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Koblenz is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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

Koblenz is a somewhat walkable port city. If you stay in the old town, you'll have no trouble walking around, but the train station is a good distance from the old town.

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

Should I spend more time in Koblenz or Rotterdam?

How long in Rotterdam or Koblenz?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Rotterdam or Koblenz to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Rotterdam than Koblenz 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 Koblenz.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rotterdam than Koblenz 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 Koblenz? Ideal Length of Stay
    Rotterdam 1-3 
    Koblenz 1-2

One day in Rotterdam or Koblenz?

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

A weekend in Rotterdam or Koblenz?

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 museums and food around the historic destination of Koblenz. 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 Koblenz?

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 and shopping when visiting the charming city of Koblenz. 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 Koblenz?

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.

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


Which place is cheaper, Koblenz 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 Koblenz is €124. 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 Koblenz in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Rotterdam or Koblenz? 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 Koblenz


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 Koblenz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Rotterdam 26
    Koblenz 42

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 Koblenz?

Prices for flights to both Koblenz 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
    Koblenz 28

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
    Koblenz 30

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 Koblenz

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

  • Bochum Private Guided Walking Tour With A Professional Guide : $282
  • Cochem 1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise: $15
  • Cochem Evening Panorama Cruise : $27
  • Cochem Private Guided Walking Tour: $247
  • Essen Private Guided Walking Tour: $271
  • Koblenz - Guided tour of the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress: $330
  • Koblenz Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $224
  • Koblenz private guided city tour: $403
  • 2-Hour Sightseeing Cruise on the Rhine: $20
  • Christmas Boat Tour with Mulled Wine: $21
  • Historical Sparkling Wine Museum Guided Tour: $20
  • Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive City Tour: $74

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Rotterdam 19
    Koblenz 7.79

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Koblenz

Also in Koblenz, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Private wine tasting meets Bulli in the Ruhr area: $75


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

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


Which is Bigger, Rotterdam or Koblenz?

Rotterdam has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Koblenz. When comparing the sizes of Rotterdam and Koblenz, 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 Koblenz?

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 Koblenz in the Summer?

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

In July, Rotterdam is generally cooler than Koblenz. Daily temperatures in Rotterdam average around 17°C (62°F), and Koblenz fluctuates around 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 Koblenz. Rotterdam gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koblenz receives 191 hours of full sun.

Rotterdam usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Koblenz. Rotterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Koblenz receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Rotterdam 17°C (62°F) 
    Koblenz 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Rotterdam or Koblenz in the Autumn?

Both Koblenz 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 Koblenz for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

Rotterdam is cooler than Koblenz in the autumn. The daily temperature in Rotterdam averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Koblenz fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Rotterdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Koblenz during autumn. Rotterdam gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Koblenz receives 109 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Rotterdam usually receives more rain than Koblenz. Rotterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Koblenz receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Rotterdam 11°C (51°F) 
    Koblenz 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Rotterdam or Koblenz in the Winter?

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

Koblenz can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Rotterdam. In the winter, Rotterdam is cooler than Koblenz. Typically, the winter temperatures in Rotterdam in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Koblenz averages at about 3°C (37°F).

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

Rotterdam usually gets more rain in January than Koblenz. Rotterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Koblenz receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Rotterdam 2°C (36°F) 
    Koblenz 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Rotterdam or Koblenz in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Rotterdam and Koblenz. Many visitors come to Rotterdam in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Koblenz for the small town charm during these months.

In April, Rotterdam is generally cooler than Koblenz. Daily temperatures in Rotterdam average around 8°C (46°F), and Koblenz fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Rotterdam usually receives more sunshine than Koblenz during spring. Rotterdam gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Koblenz receives 145 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Rotterdam usually receives more rain than Koblenz. Rotterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Koblenz receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Rotterdam 8°C (46°F) 
    Koblenz 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Koblenz and Rotterdam

Rotterdam Koblenz
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)