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

Should you visit Rotterdam or Toulouse?

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 Toulouse. 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.

Toulouse

Toulouse is a vibrant, friendly, and relaxed city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Rotterdam and Toulouse: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rotterdam or Toulouse?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Toulouse than Rotterdam. While Rotterdam is larger than Toulouse, Toulouse has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Toulouse is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Rotterdam attracts visitors for its big city activities. Rotterdam is famous for its modern architecture, the cube houses, and the market hall. Toulouse is famous for its impressive old town, many museums, and delicious local cuisine. It is also well known for Basilique Saint-Sernin.

How is Rotterdam different from Toulouse?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Toulouse 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 Toulouse. There is a long running history with countless landmarks and museums. Highlights include Basilique Saint-Sernin, Place du Capitole, Muséum de Toulouse, and Fondation Bemberg.

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

Toulouse is an amazing city 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 Toulouse, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. There are many unique regional recipes that make use of poultry, cold meats, and foie gras. Toulouse sausage, cassoulet, Poulet à la Toulousaine, and Foie gras d’oie are all popular local dishes.

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 Toulouse Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is very good in both Rotterdam and Toulouse.

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.

Toulouse has plenty to do after the sun goes down. You'll find a large number of students in town so the nightlife scene is active and fun. For the most lively atmosphere head to Carmes, Saint-Cyprien, or Place Saint-Pierre.

Is Rotterdam or Toulouse Better for its Old Town?

Toulouse is great for its historic old town charm. However, Rotterdam does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Toulouse. The old town is filled with terra-cota buildings and pedestrian walkways. The area flows out around the Capitole and is crossed by the Garonne.

Rotterdam does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Rotterdam or Toulouse?

If you're looking to go shopping, Rotterdam and Toulouse both offer plenty of very good 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.

Toulouse is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are many great shopping districts around town including Place du Capitole, The Saint Georges district, and Rue Alsace Lorraine.

Is Rotterdam or Toulouse Better for Families?

Both Rotterdam and Toulouse are very good 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.

Toulouse is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city's known for its space industry so the La Cite de l’Espace (Space Museum) is a favorite attraction for kids and adults alike. You can also visit Aeroscopia, the airplane museum. La Halle de la machine is a truly unique and impressive playground. The city also has many other museums and outdoor spaces to explore.

Is Rotterdam or Toulouse Better for Couples?

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

Toulouse is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There are many beautiful parks, gardens, and walking paths. Make sure you take a stroll along the Canal du Midi and visit Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis. This is also a great city for visiting a spa.

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

Is Rotterdam or Toulouse Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rotterdam is a port city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Toulouse is not a good destination for backpackers.

Rotterdam is a good port city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of hostels around town as well as a good nightlife that appeals to backpackers.

Toulouse is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a major stop off for many backpackers in Europe so you won't find as many hostels as you do in other cities.

Is Rotterdam or Toulouse Better for Students?

Rotterdam is great for its student-friendly activities. Also, Toulouse is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Toulouse is a good port city to visit for students. You'll find a diverse student population with many international students.

Is Rotterdam or Toulouse 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, Toulouse is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

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

Toulouse has a few public transit options. There are a large number of bus routes that travel both locally and regionally.

Is Rotterdam or Toulouse a more walkable city?

Rotterdam and Toulouse 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.

Toulouse is very walkable. Within the city center it is very walkable and easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Toulouse or Rotterdam?

How long in Rotterdam or Toulouse?

It's fun to spend time in either Rotterdam or Toulouse. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Toulouse 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 Toulouse.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rotterdam than Toulouse 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.

One day in Rotterdam or Toulouse?

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 shopping and museums around the city of Toulouse. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Toulouse?

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 museums and nightlife around the relaxed destination of Toulouse. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Toulouse?

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 food when visiting the historic city of Toulouse. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Rotterdam or Toulouse?

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.

Toulouse is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Rotterdam or Toulouse?

Rotterdam has a larger population, and is about 38% larger than the population of Toulouse. When comparing the sizes of Rotterdam and Toulouse, 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 Toulouse?

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 Toulouse in the Summer?

Both Toulouse and Rotterdam are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Rotterdam for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Toulouse because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Rotterdam is cooler than Toulouse in the summer. The daily temperature in Rotterdam averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Toulouse fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

It's quite sunny in Toulouse. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Rotterdam. Rotterdam usually receives less sunshine than Toulouse during summer. Rotterdam gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Toulouse receives 275 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Rotterdam usually receives more rain than Toulouse. Rotterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Toulouse in the Autumn?

Both Toulouse and Rotterdam during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Rotterdam because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Toulouse this time of year.

In the autumn, Rotterdam is cooler than Toulouse. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Rotterdam in October average around 11°C (51°F), and Toulouse averages at about 15°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Rotterdam often gets less sunshine than Toulouse. Rotterdam gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulouse receives 161 hours of full sun.

Rotterdam usually gets more rain in October than Toulouse. Rotterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Toulouse in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Rotterdam and Toulouse. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Rotterdam this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Toulouse for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Rotterdam in the winter. In January, Rotterdam is generally much colder than Toulouse. Daily temperatures in Rotterdam average around 2°C (36°F), and Toulouse fluctuates around 6°C (44°F).

Rotterdam usually receives less sunshine than Toulouse during winter. Rotterdam gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Toulouse receives 88 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Rotterdam usually receives more rain than Toulouse. Rotterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Toulouse in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Rotterdam as well as Toulouse. Many travelers come to Rotterdam for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Toulouse in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Rotterdam is much colder than Toulouse in the spring. The daily temperature in Rotterdam averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Toulouse fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Rotterdam often gets less sunshine than Toulouse. Rotterdam gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulouse receives 178 hours of full sun.

Rotterdam usually gets less rain in April than Toulouse. Rotterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Toulouse and Rotterdam