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

Should you visit Rotterdam or Washington?

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 Washington. 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Washington

Washington is a monument-filled, international, and diverse city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Rotterdam and Washington: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rotterdam or Washington?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Washington than Rotterdam, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Washington is more touristy than Rotterdam and is known for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. Also, Washington is famous for The Washington Monument and the White House. Rotterdam is well known for its modern architecture, the cube houses, and the market hall.

How is Rotterdam different from Washington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Washington has many famous sights for visitors. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

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 Washington Better for Theater?

Washington is great for its shows and theatre. However, Rotterdam is not a theatre destination.

Washington offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Rotterdam is not a theatre destination.

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

Washington 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 Washington, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

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 Washington Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is high quality in both Rotterdam and Washington.

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.

Washington has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

Is Rotterdam or Washington Better for Music?

Washington 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 Washington. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Rotterdam is not a live music destination.

Is Rotterdam or Washington Better for Hiking?

Washington is adequate for hiking. However, Rotterdam is not a hiking destination.

Hiking is a fun activity while in Washington. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

Rotterdam is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Rotterdam or Washington?

If you're looking to go shopping, Rotterdam and Washington both offer plenty of high quality 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.

Washington is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

Is Rotterdam or Washington Better for Christmas?

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Rotterdam does not offer Christmas activities.

With so many activities, Washington is a top place to visit during Christmas. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Rotterdam does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Rotterdam or Washington Better for Families?

Both Rotterdam and Washington are high quality 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.

Washington is a very family-friendly place to visit. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

Is Rotterdam or Washington Better for Couples?

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

Washington is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

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

Is Rotterdam or Washington Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rotterdam is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Washington is not a good destination for backpackers.

Rotterdam is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of hostels around town as well as a good nightlife that appeals to backpackers.

Washington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it is an international travel destination, the city often isn't at the top of most backpacker's lists. There are some affordable accommodation options available though if you know where to look.

Is Rotterdam or Washington Better for Students?

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for students.

Washington is a very popular place to visit for students. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

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.

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

Washington is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its public transit.

Public transit in Washington is top-notch. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

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

Is Rotterdam or Washington a more walkable city?

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

Washington is a very easy city to get around on foot. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

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 Washington Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Washington or Rotterdam?

How long in Rotterdam or Washington?

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

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

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

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

One day in Rotterdam or Washington?

When visiting Rotterdam, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Rotterdam, one day is sufficent for most.

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

When visiting Rotterdam, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this port city.

You'll find theater and nightlife around the monument-filled big city of Washington. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Rotterdam or Washington?

Rotterdam, a popular port city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the monument-filled city of Washington. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Rotterdam or Washington?

Rotterdam is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Washington is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Washington, 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, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Rotterdam and Washington, we can see that Washington 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 Washington 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 Washington would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Washington 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 Washington Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Rotterdam or Washington?

Rotterdam has a larger population, and is about 8% larger than the population of Washington. When comparing the sizes of Rotterdam and Washington, 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 Washington?

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 Washington in the Summer?

Both Washington and Rotterdam are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Rotterdam for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Washington in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Rotterdam is much colder than Washington. Typically, the summer temperatures in Rotterdam in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Washington averages at about 79°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Washington. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Rotterdam. Rotterdam usually receives less sunshine than Washington during summer. Rotterdam gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Washington receives 278 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Rotterdam usually receives less rain than Washington. Rotterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Washington receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Washington in the Autumn?

Both Washington and Rotterdam during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Rotterdam in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Washington for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Rotterdam is generally cooler than Washington. Daily temperatures in Rotterdam average around 11°C (51°F), and Washington fluctuates around 60°F (15°C).

In the autumn, Rotterdam often gets less sunshine than Washington. Rotterdam gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Washington receives 197 hours of full sun.

Rotterdam usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Washington. Rotterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Washington in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Rotterdam and Washington. Most visitors come to Rotterdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Washington because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

The weather in Washington can be very cold. Rotterdam can be very cold during winter. Rotterdam is a little warmer than Washington in the winter. The daily temperature in Rotterdam averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Washington fluctuates around 35°F (1°C).

Rotterdam usually receives less sunshine than Washington during winter. Rotterdam gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Washington receives 139 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Rotterdam usually receives around the same amount of rain as Washington. Rotterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Washington in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Rotterdam as well as Washington. The spring months attract visitors to Rotterdam because of the activities around the city. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Washington this time of year.

In the spring, Rotterdam is much colder than Washington. Typically, the spring temperatures in Rotterdam in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Washington averages at about 56°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Washington. In the spring, Rotterdam often gets less sunshine than Washington. Rotterdam gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Washington receives 228 hours of full sun.

Rotterdam usually gets less rain in April than Washington. Rotterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Washington and Rotterdam