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

Should you visit Rotterdam or Philadelphia?

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 Philadelphia. 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 food, shopping, and museums.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a cultural, diverse, and historic city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Rotterdam and Philadelphia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rotterdam or Philadelphia?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Philadelphia than Rotterdam, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Philadelphia is more touristy than Rotterdam and is known for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. It is also home to The Liberty Bell. Rotterdam is popular for its modern architecture, the cube houses, and the market hall.

How is Rotterdam different from Philadelphia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Philadelphia is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Philadelphia has many famous sights for visitors. The city has a rich history with a number of museums and monuments. Popular sites around the city include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the National Museum of Jewish American History.

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 Rotterdam or Philadelphia Better for Theater?

Philadelphia is great for its shows and theatre. However, Rotterdam is not a theatre destination.

Philadelphia offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. There are major Broadway shows as well as smaller venues. Head to The Avenue of the Arts along Broad Street for a popular stretch of theaters.

Rotterdam is not a theatre destination.

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

Philadelphia 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.

Philadelphia has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. It has grown into a well-recognized food destination. It's diversity of cultures and residents have influenced the restaurant scene and you'll find many great places to dine covering a number of international flavors. The city is famous for its Philly cheesesteak and roast pork sandwich. You can also grab some local favorites at Reading Terminal Market.

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 Philadelphia Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is great in both Rotterdam and Philadelphia.

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.

Philadelphia has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city's nightlife scene carries late into the evening with many rooftop and outdoor beer gardens. Most of the clubs and bars are found in the downtown area and you'll find places to dance, listen to live music, or sip a trendy cocktails.

Is Rotterdam or Philadelphia Better for Music?

Philadelphia is great for its music scene. However, Rotterdam is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Philadelphia draws a good crowd. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Rotterdam is not a live music destination.

Is Rotterdam or Philadelphia Better for its Old Town?

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

Philadelphia has an old town worth visiting. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Rotterdam does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Rotterdam or Philadelphia?

If you're looking to go shopping, Rotterdam and Philadelphia both offer plenty of great 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.

Philadelphia is an extremely popular place for shoppers. With all items tax-free, this city is a great place to shop. It has many boutique shops as well as name brand stores and shopping areas. For a local vibe, head to Reading Terminal Market.

Is Rotterdam or Philadelphia Better for Christmas?

Philadelphia is great for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Rotterdam does not offer Christmas activities.

Philadelphia is a very popular destination during Christmas. There are a number of holiday events, light shows, and festivals during the holiday season.

Rotterdam does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Rotterdam or Philadelphia Better for Christmas Markets?

Philadelphia is a good destination for visiting Christmas markets. However, Rotterdam does not offer Christmas markets.

Visiting the Christmas markets is popular in Philadelphia. The city has its own German style Christmas market at Love Park and City Hall. It hosts over 80 vendors.

Rotterdam does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Rotterdam or Philadelphia Better for Families?

Both Rotterdam and Philadelphia are great 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.

Philadelphia is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has many museums and a fascinating history that is interesting to kids and adults alike. Popular activities include a zoo and Sesame Place. Kids also love the hands-on Please Touch Museum.

Is Rotterdam or Philadelphia Better for Couples?

Rotterdam and Philadelphia both good 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.

Philadelphia is a nice destination for couples. Like many large cities, it is a fun place to explore in the evening as a couple. This is also a great foodie destination with great markets, food trucks, and diverse restaurants that reflect the city's diverse population.

Is Rotterdam or Philadelphia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Rotterdam and Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

Is Rotterdam or Philadelphia Better for Students?

For students, both Rotterdam and Philadelphia are great places to visit.

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

Philadelphia is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

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

Rotterdam and Philadelphia both offer great 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 Philadelphia. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

Is Rotterdam or Philadelphia a more walkable city?

Philadelphia 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.

Philadelphia is a very easy city to get around on foot. The Old City is particularly walkable, as is Avenue of the Arts, and Rittenhouse Square.

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 Philadelphia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Philadelphia or Rotterdam?

How long in Rotterdam or Philadelphia?

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

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

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

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

One day in Rotterdam or Philadelphia?

Each neighborhood in Rotterdam has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this port city.

You'll find museums and theater around the city of Philadelphia. 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 Philadelphia?

Rotterdam is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find theater and nightlife around the cultural big city of Philadelphia. 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 Philadelphia?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the high energy big city of Rotterdam. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the historic city of Philadelphia. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Rotterdam or Philadelphia?

Rotterdam is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Philadelphia 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 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, and The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco.

When comparing the travel costs between Rotterdam and Philadelphia, we can see that Philadelphia 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. Even though Rotterdam is in Europe and Philadelphia is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Rotterdam or Philadelphia?

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

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 Philadelphia in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Rotterdam and Philadelphia. Many visitors come to Rotterdam in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Philadelphia for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Rotterdam is generally cooler than Philadelphia. Daily temperatures in Rotterdam average around 17°C (62°F), and Philadelphia fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Philadelphia this time of the year. In Rotterdam, it's very sunny this time of the year. Rotterdam usually receives less sunshine than Philadelphia during summer. Rotterdam gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Philadelphia receives 273 hours of full sun in the summer.

Philadelphia receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Rotterdam usually receives less rain than Philadelphia. Rotterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Philadelphia in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Rotterdam as well as Philadelphia. Most visitors come to Rotterdam for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Philadelphia because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Rotterdam is cooler than Philadelphia in the autumn. The daily temperature in Rotterdam averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Philadelphia fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Philadelphia. In the autumn, Rotterdam often gets less sunshine than Philadelphia. Rotterdam gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Philadelphia receives 202 hours of full sun.

Rotterdam usually gets more rain in October than Philadelphia. Rotterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Philadelphia in the Winter?

Both Philadelphia and Rotterdam are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Rotterdam because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Philadelphia this time of year.

It's quite cold in Philadelphia in the winter. The weather in Rotterdam can be very cold. In the winter, Rotterdam is much warmer than Philadelphia. Typically, the winter temperatures in Rotterdam in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Philadelphia averages at about 30°F (-1°C).

Rotterdam usually receives less sunshine than Philadelphia during winter. Rotterdam gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Philadelphia receives 152 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Rotterdam usually receives more rain than Philadelphia. Rotterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Philadelphia in the Spring?

Both Philadelphia and Rotterdam during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city are the main draw to Rotterdam this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Philadelphia for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Rotterdam is generally cooler than Philadelphia. Daily temperatures in Rotterdam average around 8°C (46°F), and Philadelphia fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

In Philadelphia, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Rotterdam often gets less sunshine than Philadelphia. Rotterdam gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Philadelphia receives 216 hours of full sun.

Rotterdam usually gets less rain in April than Philadelphia. Rotterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Philadelphia and Rotterdam