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

Should you visit Rotterdam or Portland?

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 Portland. 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 food, shopping, and museums.

Portland

Portland is a progressive, quirky, and eclectic city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Rotterdam and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rotterdam or Portland?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Rotterdam. Although Rotterdam and Portland are about the same size, Rotterdam has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Rotterdam is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Portland is more popular for its music, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Portland is more touristy than Rotterdam and is known for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty. Rotterdam is well known for its modern architecture, the cube houses, and the market hall. Also, Rotterdam is famous for The Cube Houses.

The Cube Houses

How is Rotterdam different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rotterdam is a port city with good options for its museums and history. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Portland offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

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

Rotterdam is a port city with good options for its restaurants. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Rotterdam. The city's restaurant scene is diverse. There are ethnic restaurants, vegan restaurants, local restaurants, and some popular chains.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Portland. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

Is Rotterdam or Portland Better for Nightlife?

Rotterdam is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Rotterdam has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Portland has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.

Is Rotterdam or Portland Better for Music?

Portland is a good destination for its music scene. However, Rotterdam is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Portland. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Rotterdam is not a live music destination.

Is Rotterdam or Portland Better for Hiking?

Portland is great for hiking. However, Rotterdam is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Portland for the hiking trails. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.

Rotterdam is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Rotterdam or Portland?

Rotterdam is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Portland offers some nice shopping areas. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

Is Rotterdam or Portland Better for Families?

Rotterdam is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Portland. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.

Is Rotterdam or Portland Better for Couples?

Rotterdam and Portland 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.

Portland is a nice destination for couples. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.

Is Rotterdam or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portland is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Portland. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Rotterdam. There are a number of hostels around town as well as a good nightlife that appeals to backpackers.

Is Rotterdam or Portland Better for Students?

Rotterdam is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for 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.

Portland is popular with students. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.

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

Rotterdam is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Visitors to Rotterdam can move around easily with public transportation. There are trams, buses, metros, and even a ferry.

You'll find some public transit in Portland, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

Is Rotterdam or Portland a more walkable city?

Rotterdam and Portland 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.

Portland is very walkable. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

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

Should I spend more time in Portland or Rotterdam?

How long in Rotterdam or Portland?

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

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

One day in Rotterdam or Portland?

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 live music and shopping around the city of Portland. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Portland?

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 shopping and nightlife around the eclectic destination of Portland. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Portland?

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 live music when visiting the eclectic city of Portland. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Rotterdam or Portland?

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.

Portland is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Rotterdam and Portland, we can see that Portland 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 Portland 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 Portland Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Rotterdam or Portland?

Rotterdam has a larger population, and is about 11% larger than the population of Portland. When comparing the sizes of Rotterdam and Portland, 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 Portland?

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 Portland in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Rotterdam and Portland. Most visitors come to Rotterdam for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Portland because of the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Rotterdam is cooler than Portland. Typically, the summer temperatures in Rotterdam in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Portland averages at about 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland this time of the year. In Rotterdam, it's very sunny this time of the year. Rotterdam usually receives less sunshine than Portland during summer. Rotterdam gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Rotterdam usually receives more rain than Portland. Rotterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Portland in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Rotterdam as well as Portland. The autumn months attract visitors to Rotterdam because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Portland this time of year.

In October, Rotterdam is generally cooler than Portland. Daily temperatures in Rotterdam average around 11°C (51°F), and Portland fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In the autumn, Rotterdam often gets less sunshine than Portland. Rotterdam gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun.

Rotterdam usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Portland. Rotterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Portland in the Winter?

Both Portland and Rotterdam are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Rotterdam this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Portland for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Portland. It's quite cold in Rotterdam in the winter. Rotterdam is much colder than Portland in the winter. The daily temperature in Rotterdam averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

Rotterdam usually receives less sunshine than Portland during winter. Rotterdam gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Portland. In January, Rotterdam usually receives less rain than Portland. Rotterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Portland in the Spring?

Both Portland and Rotterdam during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Rotterdam for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Portland in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Rotterdam is cooler than Portland. Typically, the spring temperatures in Rotterdam in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Portland averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In Portland, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Rotterdam often gets less sunshine than Portland. Rotterdam gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun.

Rotterdam usually gets less rain in April than Portland. Rotterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Portland and Rotterdam