A Travel Price Comparison for Netherlands Rotterdam vs. Provincie Friesland for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Rotterdam or Provincie Friesland?

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 Provincie Friesland. 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. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Rotterdam travel costs.

Provincie Friesland

Provincie Friesland is a picturesque, scenic, and peaceful region. With stunning beauty, Provincie Friesland attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Provincie Friesland travel costs.

Rotterdam and Provincie Friesland: 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
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Rotterdam or Provincie Friesland?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Rotterdam than Provincie Friesland, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Rotterdam is better known for its food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Provincie Friesland is more popular for its resorts, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Provincie Friesland is more touristy than Rotterdam and is popular for its beautiful landscapes, charming towns, and rich cultural heritage. 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
The Cube Houses

How is Rotterdam different from Provincie Friesland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rotterdam
Provincie Friesland

You'll find a number of notable museums and attractions in both Provincie Friesland and Rotterdam.

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.

Provincie Friesland is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Museums highlight the region's culture and history. The Fries Museum in Leeuwarden has exhibits on Frisian heritage, art, and the famous artist M.C. Escher. The Eise Eisinga Planetarium in Franeker is the oldest working planetarium in the world. For a more hands-on experience, the Museum of Friesland and AquaZoo in Leeuwarden provide interactive exhibits about local wildlife and the region's maritime history.


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

Rotterdam
Provincie Friesland

Rotterdam is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Provincie Friesland is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Rotterdam makes for a great culinary experience. The city's restaurant scene is diverse. There are ethnic restaurants, vegan restaurants, local restaurants, and some popular chains. The city is also known for its food halls, which provide a variety of gourmet flavors from around the globe.

Provincie Friesland has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The food scene in the area is influenced by the region's agricultural and maritime heritage. Traditional specialties like Frisian clove cheese, smoked eel, and suikerbrood (sugar bread) are popular. There are also many local markets and you'll find a lot of seafood in many restaurants such as oysters, mussels, and shrimp.

Is Rotterdam or Provincie Friesland Better for Nightlife?

Rotterdam
Provincie Friesland

Rotterdam is notable for nightlife. However, Provincie Friesland is a mediocre region for nightlife and partying.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Provincie Friesland. The area is relatively quiet with a more cozy and peaceful vibe. For the best nightlife, head to Leeuwarden, the region's capital. This is where you'll find the biggest variety of bars, pubs, and clubs.

Is Rotterdam or Provincie Friesland Better for Resorts?

Rotterdam
Provincie Friesland

Provincie Friesland is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Rotterdam is not a resort destination.

Provincie Friesland has a few great resort options. There are a number of resorts in the region, particularly near the Frisian Lakes, Wadden Sea, or the IJsselmeer. Many offer waterfront views and outdoor activities like sailing, hiking, and cycling.

Rotterdam is not a resort destination.


Is Rotterdam or Provincie Friesland Better for Beaches?

Rotterdam
Provincie Friesland

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

Many people visit Provincie Friesland for it's beautiful beaches. You'll find some of the best beaches along the shores of the IJsselmeer and the Wadden Sea. The IJsselmeer beaches have sandy shores that are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, with popular spots like Lemmer and Makkum providing a relaxing atmosphere. The Wadden Sea has distinctive mudflat beaches, where visitors can take part in the unique experience of wadlopen (mudflat hiking) during low tide. Terschelling and Ameland, two of the Frisian Islands, boast stunning natural beaches perfect for long walks, cycling, or simply unwinding by the sea. These islands are known for their wide, untouched coastlines, dunes, and abundant birdlife.

Rotterdam is not a beach destination.

Is Rotterdam or Provincie Friesland Better for Hiking?

Rotterdam
Provincie Friesland

Provincie Friesland is great for hiking. However, Rotterdam is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Provincie Friesland for the hiking trails. De Alde Feanen National Park has some of the region's best hiking. The trails go through wetlands, heathlands, and forests. The Wadden Sea coast also offers unique walking experiences, such as mudflat hiking (wadlopen), where you can explore the shifting sands and tidal flats during low tide. For a cultural and scenic hike, the Elfstedenpad (Eleven Cities Trail) takes you through historic towns, canals, and beautiful countryside.

Rotterdam is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Rotterdam or Provincie Friesland?

Rotterdam
Provincie Friesland

Rotterdam is notable for shopping. Also, Provincie Friesland is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Rotterdam is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Provincie Friesland. The region has a mix of charming boutiques, local markets, and larger retail centers. In cities like Leeuwarden, you'll find a variety of shops ranging from high-street fashion to unique independent stores selling Dutch design, antiques, and local handicrafts. Local markets also sell fresh produce, flowers, cheeses, and regional specialties like Frisian sugar bread. Towns like Sneek and Hindeloopen are perfect for exploring quaint shops that sell artisanal goods, souvenirs, and traditional Dutch items.


Is Rotterdam or Provincie Friesland More Beautiful?

Rotterdam
Provincie Friesland

Provincie Friesland is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Rotterdam is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Provincie Friesland attracts visitors from all around. The area is filled with natural beauty and serene landscapes. There are also charming towns, green pastures, and tranquil canals.

Rotterdam is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Rotterdam or Provincie Friesland Better for Families?

Rotterdam
Provincie Friesland

Both Rotterdam and Provincie Friesland are superb 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.

Provincie Friesland is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the beaches, hiking, and other outdoor activities. There's also a zoo in the area and a planetarium, as well as Sybrandy's Speelpark, which is good for younger kids.

Is Rotterdam or Provincie Friesland Better for Couples?

Rotterdam
Provincie Friesland

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

Provincie Friesland is a great region if you're traveling as a couple. There are many romantic outdoor areas, beaches, lakes, and other beautiful places to explore, particularly by bike. There are also spas in the area that many couples enjoy.

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


Is Rotterdam or Provincie Friesland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rotterdam
Provincie Friesland

For backpackers, both Rotterdam and Provincie Friesland are notable 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 Provincie Friesland. There are places to camp in the area as well as many free activities like hiking or cycling.

Is Rotterdam or Provincie Friesland Better for Students?

Rotterdam
Provincie Friesland

Rotterdam is notable for students. However, Provincie Friesland is not popular with students.

Rotterdam is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. The city has a great job market and a lot of activities that appeal to international students.

Provincie Friesland is not popular with students.

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

Rotterdam
Provincie Friesland

Rotterdam is notable for its public transit. Also, Provincie Friesland is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Rotterdam. There are trams, buses, metros, and even a ferry.

Provincie Friesland has some public transit options. There are regular bus and train services linking the region's towns and cities. The Friesland Rail network provides connections between key destinations like Leeuwarden, Sneek, and Heerenveen. There are also local buses that travel to smaller villages and more remote areas.


Is Rotterdam or Provincie Friesland a more walkable city?

Rotterdam
Provincie Friesland

Rotterdam is notable for its walkability. However, Provincie Friesland is a mediocre region for its high level of walkability.

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

Provincie Friesland is generally not a very walkable port city. Friesland is walkable in certain areas, particularly its small towns and nature reserves, but getting between destinations typically requires biking, driving, or public transport.

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

Should I spend more time in Provincie Friesland or Rotterdam?

How long in Rotterdam or Provincie Friesland?

It's fun to spend time in either Rotterdam or Provincie Friesland. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Provincie Friesland due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Rotterdam, and 2-4 days is enough time in Provincie Friesland.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rotterdam than Provincie Friesland 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 Provincie Friesland? Ideal Length of Stay
    Rotterdam 1-3 
    Provincie Friesland 2-4

One day in Rotterdam or Provincie Friesland?

Each neighborhood in Rotterdam has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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 shopping and museums around the region of Provincie Friesland. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Provincie Friesland?

Many people visit Rotterdam for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. 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 museums and food around the peaceful destination of Provincie Friesland. 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 region has to offer. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Rotterdam or Provincie Friesland?

The big city destination of Rotterdam offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the peaceful region of Provincie Friesland. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Rotterdam or Provincie Friesland?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Rotterdam. This port city offers something for everyone. 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.

Provincie Friesland is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Luxury Tours to Netherlands, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands.


Which place is cheaper, Provincie Friesland or Rotterdam?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Rotterdam is €191, while the average daily cost in Provincie Friesland is €168. 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 Provincie Friesland in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Rotterdam 77
    Provincie Friesland 55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Rotterdam 154
    Provincie Friesland 110
Compare Hotels in Rotterdam and Provincie Friesland

Looking for a hotel in Rotterdam or Provincie Friesland? 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 Provincie Friesland


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Rotterdam 26
    Provincie Friesland 109

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Rotterdam

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

  • Madurodam: Train + tram transferring to/from Rotterdam: $8.79
  • Rotterdam Airport (RTM) Private Transfer to Rotterdam/Amsterdam: $35
  • Amsterdam: Private Transfer from Or To Schiphol Airport: $61
  • Rotterdam Airport (RTM) to Rotterdam - Arrival Private Transfer: $71
  • Rotterdam Airport(RTM) to Rotterdam - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $79
  • Rotterdam Airport RTM Private Transfer to Rotterdam in Sedan Car: $84
  • Rotterdam Private Transfer to Rotterdam Airport RTM in Sedan Car: $88
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam Cruise Port to Rotterdam hotels: $92
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam Port to Rotterdam Airport (RTM): $92
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam hotels to Rotterdam Cruise Port : $92
  • Rotterdam Private Transfer to Rotterdam Airport RTM by Luxury Van: $95
  • Rotterdam Airport RTM Private Transfer to Rotterdam by Luxury Van: $95

Is it cheaper to fly into Rotterdam or Provincie Friesland?

Prices for flights to both Provincie Friesland 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 93
    Provincie Friesland 57

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Rotterdam

For Rotterdam, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Guided Food Tour: $80
  • Historic Delfshaven: Lunch or Dinner with a Private Chef: $86
  • #1 Food Tour in Eat & Enjoy with a Local Guide: $89
  • Guided Walking Food Tour: $103
  • Food Tour by Bike: $103
  • Biking Rotterdam Food Tour with Local Guide: $106
  • Walking Rotterdam Food Tour: $106
  • Private Walking Food Tour of Rotterdam: $131
  • Rotterdam Private 2-Hour Food Tour with Tastings: $173

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Rotterdam 32
    Provincie Friesland 9.21

Tours and Activities in Rotterdam

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Rotterdam.

  • Rotterdam Walking Tour in 2 Hours: $3.56
  • Breda Fun Puzzle Quest: True Lord Self-Guided Tour: $5.70
  • Rotterdam Spy Mission: Save the City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.90
  • Explore Gouda with Self-Guided GPS and Audio Tour: $8.22
  • Rotterdam Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $8.32
  • Self-Guided Walking Tour of Gouda: Canals, Colonies, and Cheese: $9.99
  • Delfshaven Self-Guided Tour: A Guide to Rotterdam’s Old Town: $9.99
  • Waterbus Ticket to Dordrecht and/or Kinderdijk: $11
  • Rotterdam's Highlights and History: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Pub Trail Dordrecht: an adventure full of surprises: $13
  • Pub Trail Breda: an adventure full of surprises: $13
  • 1-day RET Public Transport Ticket: $14

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Rotterdam 19
    Provincie Friesland 17

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 Tasting Flights (NO TOUR): $9.22
  • Stadshaven Brewery Tour with Beer Tastings: $13
  • Pub Crawl with Local Guide: $20
  • Ludwig's Original Pub Crawl with VIP Club Entry: $52
  • Ludwig's Private Pub Crawl with VIP Club Entry: $570


When comparing the travel costs between Rotterdam and Provincie Friesland, 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 Provincie Friesland Expensive?.


Which has a larger population, Rotterdam or Provincie Friesland?

Provincie Friesland has a larger population, and is about 9% larger than the population of Rotterdam. When comparing the sizes of Rotterdam and Provincie Friesland, 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.