A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Saaremaa vs. Rotorua for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Saaremaa or Rotorua?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saaremaa or Rotorua, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Saaremaa

Saaremaa is a peaceful, relaxed, and traditional island. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. With stunning beauty, Saaremaa attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food and beaches. See Saaremaa travel costs.

Rotorua

Rotorua is a world-renowned, diverse, and cultural town. With stunning beauty, Rotorua attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Rotorua travel costs.

Saaremaa and Rotorua: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saaremaa or Rotorua?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rotorua. Although Saaremaa and Rotorua are popular destinations, Rotorua has more sights and attractions for tourists. Rotorua is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, hiking, and shopping, while Saaremaa attracts visitors for its beaches and small town charm. Rotorua is more touristy than Saaremaa and is known for its geothermal activity, Maori cultural influence, and its role in the famous Lord of the Rings movies. It is also well known for Waimangu Volcanic Valley. Saaremaa is famous for its untouched, undiscovered rural setting.

How is Saaremaa different from Rotorua?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Rotorua and Saaremaa. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saaremaa or Rotorua?

Rotorua is great for its historical sights. However, Saaremaa does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Rotorua can be an interesting and educational experience. The area is filled with opportunities to learn about the Maori culture. The Maori village of Whakarewarewa is a highlight and you should also visit Te Wairoa. Fans of Lord of the Rings won't want to miss Hobbiton either. Finally, Rotorua Museum well worth a visit.

Saaremaa does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Saaremaa or Rotorua? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Saaremaa and Rotorua can be difficult as they are each high quality in their own way.

Saaremaa has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Like most things on the island, traditional local food is still the norm here. The island is known for its smoked fish, homemade bread, and locally brewed beers. Popular fishes include garfish, herring, and flatfish, which you can enjoy at a local restaurant or one of the pop-up cafes that are popular during the summer months. You'll find the highest concentration of restaurants in Kuressaare, but there are still many options further out. It's also fun to visit during September during the Saaremaa Food Festival.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Rotorua makes for a great culinary experience. There's a wide selection of culinary options in the area that include steambox (food prepared with the geothermal heat), and hāngī, which is a traditional Maori cooking technique. Many restaurants also make use of the local fruit, vegetables, and meats.

Is Saaremaa or Rotorua Better for Nightlife?

Rotorua is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Rotorua has a few options to choose from. You'll find the best concentration of bars and restaurants around Tutankei Street, which is often referred to as "Eat Street".

People don't go to Saaremaa for the nightlife. The island is known for it's quiet, laid-back atmosphere, so you'll be hard pressed to find a party or active club, even during the more popular summer months.

Is Saaremaa or Rotorua Better for Beaches?

Saaremaa is a island with good options for the beach. However, Rotorua is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Saaremaa. The beaches are quiet and relaxed, even during the summer months. In town, the best beach is Kuressaare Beach. Outside of town you'll find other nice beaches such as the sandy beaches between Mändjala and Järve. The beaches in Tuhkana and Jõiste villages are also well known. For swimming, most people prefer to visit Lake Karujärv.

Rotorua is not a beach destination.

Is Saaremaa or Rotorua Better for Hiking?

Rotorua is great for hiking. However, Saaremaa is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Rotorua for the hiking trails. The area is filled with beautiful walking trails that take you by lakes, volcanoes, and geothermal hot springs. A favorite route in the area is Tarawera Trail, which is 15 kilometers long and ends at a natural hot water beach.

Saaremaa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saaremaa or Rotorua?

Rotorua is a nice place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Saaremaa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Rotorua has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find stores and galleries selling art and crafts around the main town center.

Saaremaa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Saaremaa or Rotorua More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of high quality scenery and beauty in both Saaremaa and Rotorua.

With stunning beauty, Saaremaa attracts visitors from all around. The island has a classic beauty that feels frozen in time.

Rotorua is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's surrounded by striking volcanoes, beautiful lakes, and surreal geothermal springs, giving it an exotic and beautiful atmosphere.

Is Saaremaa or Rotorua Better for Families?

Rotorua is an amazing town to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Rotorua is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. The geothermal activity is fascinating for kids and adults alike. There are also many activities that will teach kids about the Maori culture and for animal lovers, there are farms and wildlife tours. Lord of the Rings fans won't want to miss Hobbiton, and there are many thrilling activities in the area such as white water rafting.

Saaremaa is a family-friendly place to visit. While the island is known for its slow pace, there are still a number of fun activities where the kids can run and jump. There are several outdoor adventure parks and playgrounds that are great for young legs. Check out the playgrounds in Kuressaare or head out of town for more outdoor activities. When the weather's nice you can head to Kuressaare Beach or check out the ostrich farm in Muhu.

Is Saaremaa or Rotorua Better for Couples?

Rotorua is an amazing town to visit for couples. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island for romance.

Rotorua has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The unique environment and beautiful natural setting make this a wonderful honeymoon destination. Couples will appreciate the geothermal activity, beautiful walking trails, and diverse outdoor activities. There's also horseback riding, hot springs, and helicopter rides.

Saaremaa is a very popular place to visit for couples. The peace and quiet of the island make for a relaxing couple's getaway. You can enjoy the outdoors and feel like you've stepped back in time as you explore the laid back island in the Baltics.

Is Saaremaa or Rotorua Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rotorua is an amazing town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Rotorua, as it is a very popular town for budget travelers. Well established on the backpacker trail, there are plenty of hostels in the area and tons of activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Saaremaa is a good island to visit for backpackers. While prices are cheap, transportation isn't great so you'll likely want to rent a car if you want to really explore the island. There are a number of rooms available for rent at an affordable price, particularly in the shoulder season, but you'll you'll only find a handful of hostels on the island.

Is Saaremaa or Rotorua Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Rotorua is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Rotorua offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses and shuttles that travel around town and through the area.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Saaremaa. Most people arrive on the island by ferry. There are buses on the island but they cater mostly to locals. To really explore, you'll want to have access to a car.

Is Saaremaa or Rotorua a more walkable city?

Rotorua is a nice place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for its walkability.

Rotorua is a somewhat walkable town. The town itself is fairly walkable but if you want to get into the surrounding areas, having a vehicle provides the most flexibility.

Saaremaa is not a walkable island. While their are some walking trails, you really need a car to explore the island in depth.

For even more information, also check out Is Saaremaa Worth Visiting? and Is Rotorua Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rotorua or Saaremaa?

How long in Saaremaa or Rotorua?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Saaremaa and Rotorua. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Saaremaa than in Rotorua. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saaremaa, and 2-3 days is enough time in Rotorua.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rotorua than Saaremaa 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 Rotorua.

One day in Saaremaa or Rotorua?

Saaremaa is a small town with plenty to do. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The beautiful town of Rotorua offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Saaremaa or Rotorua?

Saaremaa might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 Saaremaa has to offer.

Rotorua is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Rotorua, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Saaremaa or Rotorua?

Saaremaa 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.

Rotorua 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.

A week in Saaremaa or Rotorua?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saaremaa. Since Saaremaa is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Rotorua is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Tallinn, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Estonia, The Best 2-Week Tours in New Zealand, and The Best Bicycle Tours in New Zealand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Saaremaa or Rotorua?

Rotorua has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Saaremaa. When comparing the sizes of Saaremaa and Rotorua, 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 Saaremaa or Rotorua?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Rotorua is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Saaremaa has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Saaremaa or Rotorua in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Saaremaa and Rotorua. The beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Saaremaa this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Rotorua for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Saaremaa is a little warmer than Rotorua in the summer. The daily temperature in Saaremaa averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Rotorua fluctuates around 12°C (54°F)in January.

In July, Saaremaa usually receives more rain than Rotoruain January. Saaremaa gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Rotorua in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Saaremaa as well as Rotorua. Many travelers come to Saaremaa for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Rotorua in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Saaremaa is much colder than Rotorua. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Saaremaa in October average around 8°C (47°F), and Rotorua averages at about 16°C (61°F)in April.

Saaremaa usually gets more rain in October than Rotoruain April. Saaremaa gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Rotorua in the Winter?

Both Rotorua and Saaremaa are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Saaremaa in the winter for the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Rotorua for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Saaremaa can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Saaremaa is generally much colder than Rotoruain July. Daily temperatures in Saaremaa average around -3°C (27°F), and Rotorua fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

In January, Saaremaa usually receives more rain than Rotoruain July. Saaremaa gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Rotorua in the Spring?

Both Rotorua and Saaremaa during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Saaremaa for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Rotorua because of the natural beauty.

Saaremaa can be very cold during spring. Saaremaa is much colder than Rotorua in the spring. The daily temperature in Saaremaa averages around 4°C (38°F) in April, and Rotorua fluctuates around 19°C (66°F)in October.

Saaremaa usually gets less rain in April than Rotoruain October. Saaremaa gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rotorua and Saaremaa