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

Should you visit Rotterdam or Linz?

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 Linz. 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 nightlife, food, and shopping.

Linz

Linz is a cultural, historic, and beautiful town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping.

Rotterdam and Linz: 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
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Rotterdam or Linz?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rotterdam than Linz, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Rotterdam is more popular for its nightlife and big city activities, while Linz is known for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Linz is more touristy than Rotterdam and is popular for its Baroque architecture, modern art museums, and great pastries. 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 Linz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rotterdam
Linz

Linz 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 Linz. The city has a lot of history which can be experienced with visits to The Castle of Linz, St. Martin's Church, and the New Cathedral. There are also several modern museums such as Ars Electronica Center, the OK Center, and the Lentos Art 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 Linz? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Rotterdam
Linz

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Rotterdam and Linz 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.

Linz offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find an endless supply of bakeries around town that serve cakes, tarts, and biscuits. A trip to Linz isn't complete without a sampling of the local pastries.

Is Rotterdam or Linz Better for Nightlife?

Rotterdam
Linz

Rotterdam is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Linz is not a good town for its evening party scene.

Rotterdam offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Linz. The town isn't exactly a party place, but you'll find a good theater and some live music venues that are worth checking out.

Is Rotterdam or Linz Better for its Old Town?

Rotterdam
Linz

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

Linz has an old town worth visiting. The old town is filled with Baroque architecture and a market square. There are a number of interesting buildings and great cafes in the area.

Rotterdam does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Rotterdam or Linz?

Rotterdam
Linz

If you're looking to go shopping, Rotterdam and Linz both offer plenty of very good 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.

Linz is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are a number of shopping streets around town, but the most popular is Landstraße. You'll find all kinds of retail stores with everything from clothing to furniture available.

Is Rotterdam or Linz Better for Families?

Rotterdam
Linz

Rotterdam is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Linz is a family-friendly port city. Pöstlingberg Adventure World is a highlight for kids. You can take the tram up the mountain and see the views, visit the Grottenbahn, or explore the zoo. Kids will also appreciate the Ars Electronica Center, which is a futuristic museum in town as well as the The Linz Castle Museum.

Is Rotterdam or Linz Better for Couples?

Rotterdam
Linz

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

Linz is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The city is filled with beautiful baroque architecture. There's a lively main square and many great restaurants that couples will appreciate. There are also shopping areas and museums to explore.

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


Is Rotterdam or Linz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rotterdam
Linz

For backpackers, both Rotterdam and Linz 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 Linz. Backpackers will find more budget hotels than hostels in town, so it can be a bit challenging to meet other travelers. Even so, this is a beautiful city that is well worth a visit.

Is Rotterdam or Linz Better for Students?

Rotterdam
Linz

Rotterdam is a well-known place for students. However, Linz 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.

Linz is not popular with students.

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

Rotterdam
Linz

Rotterdam is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Rotterdam can get you to some places easily. There are trams, buses, metros, and even a ferry.

Linz has some public transit options. There are buses and streetcars that travel throughout the town.


Is Rotterdam or Linz a more walkable city?

Rotterdam
Linz

Rotterdam and Linz are very good when it comes to walkability.

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

Linz is very walkable. The tourist areas are easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Linz or Rotterdam?

How long in Rotterdam or Linz?

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

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

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

One day in Rotterdam or Linz?

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

A weekend in Rotterdam or Linz?

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 food around the beautiful destination of Linz. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Rotterdam or Linz?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the modern 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 food and shopping when visiting the beautiful town of Linz. 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 Linz?

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.

Linz 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 in Austria, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria.


Which place is cheaper, Linz 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 Linz is €114. 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 Linz in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Rotterdam 77
    Linz 58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Rotterdam 154
    Linz 116
Compare Hotels in Rotterdam and Linz

Looking for a hotel in Rotterdam or Linz? 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 Linz


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 Linz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Rotterdam 26
    Linz 41

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Rotterdam

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

  • Rotterdam to Rotterdam Airport (RTM) - Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • Rotterdam Airport (RTM) to Rotterdam - Arrival Private Transfer: $38
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam hotels to Rotterdam Cruise Port : $38
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam Cruise Port to Rotterdam hotels: $38
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam Port to Rotterdam Airport (RTM): $38
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam Cruise Port to Rotterdam hotels: $60
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam Airport (RTM) to IJmuiden Port: $61
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam hotels to Rotterdam Cruise Port: $61
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam Port to Amsterdam Airport (AMS): $66
  • Rotterdam Airport(RTM) to Rotterdam - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $76
  • Rotterdam Airport RTM Private Transfer to Rotterdam in Sedan Car: $77
  • Rotterdam Private Transfer to Rotterdam Airport RTM in Sedan Car: $81

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Linz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Linz:

  • Transfer from Linz to Munich: Private daytrip with 2 hours for sightseeing: $212
  • Private Transfer from Linz to Munich, Hotel-to-hotel, English-speaking driver: $180
  • Linz Private Transfer from Linz Airport to City centre: $70
  • Linz Private Transfer from Linz city centre to Linz Airport: $70
  • Linz Private Transfer from Linz Airport to Wels city: $68

Is it cheaper to fly into Rotterdam or Linz?

Prices for flights to both Linz 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
    Linz 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

Typical Food Prices in Linz

Some typical examples of dining costs in Linz are as follows:


  • Leberkäse (Sausage Loaf)
    4.20
  • Lunch
    8.50

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Rotterdam 32
    Linz 13

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 Linz

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Linz are as follows:

  • Christmas Tales of Linz – Private Walking Tour: $544
  • Christmas Tales of Linz – Private Walking Tour: $262
  • Cycling Tour of Linz with a Private Guide: $237
  • Detective Trail puzzle tour for the whole family: $16
  • Family Tour of Linz's Old Town, Pöstlingberg and Grottenbahn: $214
  • Family Tour of Linz's Old Town, Pöstlingberg and Grottenbahn: $210
  • Linz - Private Historic Walking Tour: $374
  • Linz Christmas Market Tour: $294
  • Linz Crime Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Linz Cultural Marvels Walking Tour: $401
  • Linz Cultural Marvels Walking Tour: $205
  • Linz Exploration: Private Walking Tour with Local Guide: $176

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Rotterdam 19
    Linz 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 Linz, we can see that Rotterdam is more expensive. And not only is Linz much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Linz would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Linz 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 Linz.

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


Which is Bigger, Rotterdam or Linz?

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

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 Linz in the Summer?

Both Linz and Rotterdam during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Rotterdam for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Linz because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Rotterdam is generally cooler than Linz. Daily temperatures in Rotterdam average around 17°C (62°F), and Linz fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In Linz, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Rotterdam. In the summer, Rotterdam often gets less sunshine than Linz. Rotterdam gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Linz receives 236 hours of full sun.

Rotterdam usually gets less rain in July than Linz. Rotterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Linz receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Rotterdam 17°C (62°F) 
    Linz 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Rotterdam or Linz in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Rotterdam and Linz. The autumn months attract visitors to Rotterdam because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Linz this time of year.

Rotterdam is around the same temperature as Linz in the autumn. The daily temperature in Rotterdam averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Linz fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Rotterdam usually receives less sunshine than Linz during autumn. Rotterdam gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Linz receives 129 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Rotterdam usually receives more rain than Linz. Rotterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Linz receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Rotterdam 11°C (51°F) 
    Linz 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Rotterdam or Linz in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Rotterdam as well as Linz. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Rotterdam this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Linz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Linz. It's quite cold in Rotterdam in the winter. In the winter, Rotterdam is much warmer than Linz. Typically, the winter temperatures in Rotterdam in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Linz averages at about -0°C (31°F).

In the winter, Rotterdam often gets less sunshine than Linz. Rotterdam gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Linz receives 57 hours of full sun.

Rotterdam usually gets more rain in January than Linz. Rotterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Linz receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Rotterdam 2°C (36°F) 
    Linz -0°C (31°F)

Should I visit Rotterdam or Linz in the Spring?

Both Linz and Rotterdam are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Rotterdam for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Linz in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Rotterdam is generally cooler than Linz. Daily temperatures in Rotterdam average around 8°C (46°F), and Linz fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Rotterdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Linz during spring. Rotterdam gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Linz receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Rotterdam usually receives less rain than Linz. Rotterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Linz receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Rotterdam 8°C (46°F) 
    Linz 11°C (51°F)

Typical Weather for Linz and Rotterdam

Rotterdam Linz
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) -0°C (31°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 6°C (43°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in) 11°C (51°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 18°C (65°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 20°C (68°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (67°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 16°C (61°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 1°C (35°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)