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

Should you visit Rotterdam or Seattle?

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 Seattle. 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. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Seattle

Seattle is a progressive, cultural, and outdoorsy 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 beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Rotterdam and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rotterdam or Seattle?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Seattle. Although Rotterdam and Seattle are popular destinations, Seattle has more sights and attractions for tourists. Seattle is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, music, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Rotterdam attracts visitors for its shopping. Seattle is more touristy than Rotterdam and is popular for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. It is also well known for The Space Needle. Rotterdam is famous for its modern architecture, the cube houses, and the market hall.

How is Rotterdam different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Seattle is great for its historical sights. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its sights and museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Seattle. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

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 Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is a good destination for its shows and theatre. However, Rotterdam is not a theatre destination.

If you have some extra time in Seattle, take in a show. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Rotterdam is not a theatre destination.

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

Seattle 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.

Seattle has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place 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 Seattle Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Seattle has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

Is Rotterdam or Seattle Better for Music?

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

The music scene in Seattle draws a good crowd. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Rotterdam is not a live music destination.

Is Rotterdam or Seattle Better for Beaches?

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

Seattle offers a nice beach destination. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Rotterdam is not a beach destination.

Is Rotterdam or Seattle Better for Hiking?

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

Many visitors go to Seattle for the hiking trails. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Rotterdam is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Rotterdam or Seattle?

Rotterdam is notable for its shopping areas. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Seattle. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Is Rotterdam or Seattle Better for Families?

Rotterdam is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Rotterdam is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Fun activities for kids include Miniworld Rotterdam, the Kids Marina, and Fun Forest, which has ziplines and a ropes course.

Seattle is a family-friendly port city. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Rotterdam or Seattle Better for Couples?

Rotterdam and Seattle both nice 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.

Seattle is a nice destination for couples. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

Is Rotterdam or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Rotterdam and Seattle 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 Seattle. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

Is Rotterdam or Seattle Better for Students?

For students, both Rotterdam and Seattle 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.

Seattle is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

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

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

Rotterdam offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are trams, buses, metros, and even a ferry.

Seattle has some public transit options. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

Is Rotterdam or Seattle a more walkable city?

Rotterdam and Seattle are great when it comes to walkability.

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

Seattle is very walkable. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Rotterdam?

How long in Rotterdam or Seattle?

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

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

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

One day in Rotterdam or Seattle?

Because Rotterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This port city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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

Because Rotterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Rotterdam has to offer.

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

Rotterdam is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the progressive city of Seattle. 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 Seattle?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rotterdam. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Rotterdam. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Seattle 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Rotterdam and Seattle, we can see that Seattle is more expensive. And not only is Rotterdam much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Rotterdam is in Europe and Seattle is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Seattle would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Seattle 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 Seattle Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Rotterdam or Seattle?

Rotterdam has a larger population, and is about 5% larger than the population of Seattle. When comparing the sizes of Rotterdam and Seattle, 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 Seattle?

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 Seattle in the Summer?

Both Seattle and Rotterdam during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Rotterdam in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Seattle for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Rotterdam is cooler than Seattle in the summer. The daily temperature in Rotterdam averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Seattle fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

In Seattle, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Rotterdam. In the summer, Rotterdam often gets less sunshine than Seattle. Rotterdam gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 313 hours of full sun.

Rotterdam usually gets more rain in July than Seattle. Rotterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Seattle in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Rotterdam and Seattle. 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 Seattle because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Rotterdam is cooler than Seattle. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Rotterdam in October average around 11°C (51°F), and Seattle averages at about 54°F (12°C).

Rotterdam usually receives less sunshine than Seattle during autumn. Rotterdam gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 143 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Rotterdam usually receives less rain than Seattle. Rotterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Seattle in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Rotterdam as well as Seattle. The winter months attract visitors to Rotterdam because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Seattle this time of year.

The weather in Rotterdam can be very cold. In January, Rotterdam is generally much colder than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Rotterdam average around 2°C (36°F), and Seattle fluctuates around 42°F (5°C).

In the winter, Rotterdam often gets less sunshine than Seattle. Rotterdam gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 67 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Seattle. Rotterdam usually gets less rain in January than Seattle. Rotterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Seattle in the Spring?

Both Seattle and Rotterdam are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city are the main draw to Rotterdam this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Seattle for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Rotterdam is cooler than Seattle in the spring. The daily temperature in Rotterdam averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Seattle fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Seattle. Rotterdam usually receives less sunshine than Seattle during spring. Rotterdam gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Rotterdam usually receives less rain than Seattle. Rotterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Seattle and Rotterdam