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

Should you visit Rotterdam or Nice?

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 Nice. 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.

Nice

Nice is a glamourous, beautiful, and opulent seaside destination. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Rotterdam and Nice: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rotterdam or Nice?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Nice than Rotterdam. While Rotterdam is larger than Nice, Nice has more sights and attractions for tourists. Nice is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Rotterdam is known for its museums and big city activities. Nice is more touristy than Rotterdam and is popular for its beachfront setting in the French Riviera as well as its popularity with A-list celebrities. It is also home to The Promenade des Anglais. Rotterdam is popular for its modern architecture, the cube houses, and the market hall.

How is Rotterdam different from Nice?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Rotterdam offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

Nice does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Nice is an amazing seaside destination to visit 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.

Eat your way through Nice, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The cuisine brings together fresh regional ingredients and mixes Provençal and Niçoise flavors. You'll find a lot of Italian influence as well. Fresh seafood is the thing to try while you're in town, but other local favorites include socca, Ratatouille, and Salade niçoise.

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 Nice Better for Nightlife?

Nice is an amazing seaside destination to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for nightlife.

Nice has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The city has some of the best nightlife on the Cote d'Azur. You'll find a number of nightclubs along the seaside as well a bars and pubs in the Old Town. Some of the best clubs are along Promenade des Anglais.

Rotterdam has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

Is Rotterdam or Nice Better for Resorts?

Nice is an amazing seaside destination to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Rotterdam is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Nice for its luxury resorts. The city has boutique hotels as well high end luxury resorts. Popular options include Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée, Hôtel Suisse, and AC Hotel by Marriott.

Rotterdam is not a resort destination.

Is Rotterdam or Nice Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Nice is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Rotterdam is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Nice. There are some places where you can arrange a snorkeling or dive trip to explore the underwater setting.

Rotterdam is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Rotterdam or Nice Better for Beaches?

Nice is great for the beach. However, Rotterdam is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Nice for it's beautiful beaches. The city has about 4 miles of beach along its coastline and there are both public and private beaches available. La Réserve is a public beach with a laid back and fun vibe. Plage Beau Rivage is a private beach with many amenities, making it a favorite for visitors. Blue Beach is another private beach that is very family-friendly.

Rotterdam is not a beach destination.

Is Rotterdam or Nice Better for its Old Town?

Nice is great for its historic old town charm. However, Rotterdam does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Nice. Wandering around the charming old town is a quintessential part of visiting this city. There are many historic churches and squares, as well as great restaurants and shops that you can pop in.

Rotterdam does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Rotterdam or Nice?

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

Nice is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has long been a favorite for the rich and famous, so you'll find plenty of shopping opportunities around town. The boutique shops are chic, trendy, and fashionable, but for those on a budget, you can sometimes find a unique local purchase in your budget.

Is Rotterdam or Nice Better for Families?

Rotterdam is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination 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.

Nice is a family-friendly port city. The town has many fun playgrounds, kid-friendly beaches, and unique cultural opportunities that kids can enjoy. It also makes a great base for exploring the French Riviera and everything that it has to offer.

Is Rotterdam or Nice Better for Couples?

Nice is an amazing seaside destination to visit for couples. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for romance.

Nice is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The old town is filled with romance and charm. You can also take a walk along the Promenade Des Anglais or soak up the romantic countryside that surrounds the town.

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

Is Rotterdam or Nice Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Rotterdam and Nice 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 Nice. Because it's one of the most popular tourist destinations in France, many backpackers make their way here. Nice is known for its high end vibe, so it can be challenging to find affordable options, but if you know where to look, they are around.

Is Rotterdam or Nice Better for Students?

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

Nice is not popular with students.

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

Rotterdam and Nice both offer very good 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 Nice. There are both buses and trams.

Is Rotterdam or Nice a more walkable city?

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

Nice is a very easy seaside destination to get around on foot. You should definitely spend some time exploring the 7 kilometer long Promenade des Anglais.

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 Nice Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nice or Rotterdam?

How long in Rotterdam or Nice?

In either Rotterdam or Nice, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Nice than Rotterdam because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Rotterdam, and 3-5 days is enough time in Nice.

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

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

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

One day in Rotterdam or Nice?

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 scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the quaint seaside destination of Nice. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Nice?

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 shopping and nightlife around the opulent destination of Nice. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This seaside destination offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Rotterdam or Nice?

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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the trendy seaside destination of Nice. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this seaside destination makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this seaside destination has to offer.

A week in Rotterdam or Nice?

The modern 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.

Nice is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 10-Day Tours in France, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Rotterdam or Nice?

Rotterdam has a larger population, and is about 77% larger than the population of Nice. When comparing the sizes of Rotterdam and Nice, 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 Nice?

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 Nice in the Summer?

Both Nice 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 Nice because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

Rotterdam usually gets more rain in July than Nice. Rotterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Nice receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Nice in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Rotterdam and Nice. 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 Nice this time of year.

Rotterdam is much colder than Nice in the autumn. The daily temperature in Rotterdam averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Nice fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Nice receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Rotterdam usually receives less rain than Nice. Rotterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Nice receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Nice in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Rotterdam in the winter. In the winter, Rotterdam is much colder than Nice. Typically, the winter temperatures in Rotterdam in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Nice averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Rotterdam usually gets less rain in January than Nice. Rotterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Nice receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Nice in the Spring?

Both Nice 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 Nice in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Rotterdam is generally much colder than Nice. Daily temperatures in Rotterdam average around 8°C (46°F), and Nice fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In April, Rotterdam usually receives less rain than Nice. Rotterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Nice receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Nice and Rotterdam