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

Should you visit Rotterdam or Positano?

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 Positano. 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 high energy, modern, and trendy port city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Positano

Positano is a colorful, stunning, and luxurious Mediterranean village. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the shopping, food, and beaches.

Rotterdam and Positano: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rotterdam or Positano?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Positano. Although Rotterdam and Positano are popular destinations, Positano has more sights and attractions for tourists. Positano is very popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Rotterdam attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, and big city activities. Positano is more touristy than Rotterdam and is known for its beautiful cliffside setting, its colorful buildings, and its quintessential Amalfi atmosphere. It is also well known for The Church of Santa Maria Assunta. Rotterdam is famous for its modern architecture, the cube houses, and the market hall.

How is Rotterdam different from Positano?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rotterdam is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Positano is an amazing Mediterranean village 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 Positano, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Seafood is the obvious choice along the Amalfi Coast but Positano is also famous for its salami, chestnuts, cheese, and figs.

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 Positano Better for Nightlife?

Rotterdam is great for its evening party scene. However, Positano is not a good destination for nightlife.

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.

Most people don't head to Positano specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The town has a relaxing nightlife that is usually centered around the clubs found at nearby resorts.

Is Rotterdam or Positano Better for Resorts?

Positano is an amazing Mediterranean village to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Rotterdam is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Positano for its luxury resorts. The town has a number of luxury resorts including Le Sirenuse, Il San Pietro di Positano, and Hotel Le Agavi.

Rotterdam is not a resort destination.

Is Rotterdam or Positano Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Positano is adequate for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Rotterdam is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are few places where you can go snorkeling in Positano. There are snorkeling boat trips that you can book to enjoy exploring the undersea world.

Rotterdam is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Rotterdam or Positano Better for Beaches?

Positano is a good destination for the beach. However, Rotterdam is not a beach destination.

Positano offers a nice beach destination. Like the rest of the Amalfi Coast, beaches near Positano tend to be pebbly instead of sandy. They can also get a bit crowded during the summer months. Still, the picturesque setting makes these beaches truly amazing. The main beach at the edge of town is Spiaggia Grande, but there are several others nearby as well.

Rotterdam is not a beach destination.

Is Rotterdam or Positano Better for its Old Town?

Positano is an amazing Mediterranean village to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Rotterdam does not have a historic old town.

Positano offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. Exploring the old town, soaking up the atmosphere, and simply enjoying the colorful buildings is what a trip to Positano is all about.

Rotterdam does not have a historic old town.

Is Rotterdam or Positano Better for Hiking?

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

Many visitors go to Positano for the hiking trails. The best way to explore the area out of town is on foot. There are a number of foot paths and trails that will take you through the stunning landscapes.

Rotterdam is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Rotterdam or Positano?

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

Positano is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The main street in town is lined with quaint shops that sell local lemon products, ceramics, clothing, and more.

Is Rotterdam or Positano Better for Families?

Rotterdam is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Positano is a family-friendly place to visit. Fun activities include boat rides, eating gelato, and hanging out at the beach. Some of the best family-friendly beaches are Spiaggia Grande, Fornillo Beach, and Arienzo Beach.

Is Rotterdam or Positano Better for Couples?

Positano is an amazing Mediterranean village to visit for couples. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for romance.

Positano is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It is a picturesque coast town that is both romantic and fun. Wandering through the streets and sampling Italian food make this the perfect honeymoon getaway.

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

Is Rotterdam or Positano Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Rotterdam and Positano are nice 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 Positano. The town has a handful of great hostels that make the Amalfi Coast accessible to backpackers on a budget.

Is Rotterdam or Positano Better for Students?

Rotterdam is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Positano 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.

Positano is not popular with students.

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

Rotterdam is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village for its public transit.

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

Positano has a few public transit options. You can walk everywhere once you arrive, and the SITA bus travels to and from the town.

Is Rotterdam or Positano a more walkable city?

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

Positano is a very easy Mediterranean village to get around on foot. The town is best explored on foot. You can wander the quaint streets or take the foot path to the beach or nearby castles.

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 Positano Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Positano or Rotterdam?

How long in Rotterdam or Positano?

Both Rotterdam and Positano have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Positano than in Rotterdam. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Rotterdam, and 2-7 days is enough time in Positano.

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

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

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

One day in Rotterdam or Positano?

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.

Even though Positano is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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 Positano?

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.

Positano is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. 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 Mediterranean village has to offer. This Mediterranean village offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Rotterdam or Positano?

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.

Positano is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this Mediterranean village makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this Mediterranean village has to offer.

A week in Rotterdam or Positano?

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.

Positano is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Positano, one week is sufficent for most. 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Rotterdam and Positano, we can see that Positano is more expensive. And not only is Rotterdam much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Rotterdam would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Rotterdam 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 Positano would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Positano than you might in Rotterdam.

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

Which is Bigger, Rotterdam or Positano?

Rotterdam has a larger population, and is about 150 times larger than the population of Positano. When comparing the sizes of Rotterdam and Positano, 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 Positano?

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 Positano in the Summer?

Both Positano and Rotterdam are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Rotterdam because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Positano this time of year.

Rotterdam is cooler than Positano in the summer. The daily temperature in Rotterdam averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Positano fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

It's quite sunny in Positano. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Rotterdam. Rotterdam usually receives less sunshine than Positano during summer. Rotterdam gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Rotterdam usually receives more rain than Positano. Rotterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Positano receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Positano in the Autumn?

Both Positano and Rotterdam during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Positano for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Rotterdam is much colder than Positano. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Rotterdam in October average around 11°C (51°F), and Positano averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Rotterdam often gets less sunshine than Positano. Rotterdam gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun.

Positano gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Rotterdam usually gets less rain in October than Positano. Rotterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Positano receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Positano in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Rotterdam and Positano. Many travelers come to Rotterdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Positano in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Rotterdam. In January, Rotterdam is generally much colder than Positano. Daily temperatures in Rotterdam average around 2°C (36°F), and Positano fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Rotterdam usually receives less sunshine than Positano during winter. Rotterdam gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

Positano receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Rotterdam usually receives less rain than Positano. Rotterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Positano receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Positano in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Rotterdam as well as Positano. Many visitors come to Rotterdam in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Positano for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

Rotterdam is much colder than Positano in the spring. The daily temperature in Rotterdam averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Positano fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Rotterdam often gets less sunshine than Positano. Rotterdam gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun.

Rotterdam usually gets less rain in April than Positano. Rotterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Positano receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Positano and Rotterdam