A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Saint Andrews vs. Rotterdam for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Saint Andrews or Rotterdam?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saint Andrews or Rotterdam, 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.

Saint Andrews

Saint Andrews is a historic, charming, and quaint university town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a trendy, high energy, and modern port city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Saint Andrews and Rotterdam: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Saint Andrews or Rotterdam?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Rotterdam. Although Saint Andrews and Rotterdam are both popular with visitors, Rotterdam has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Rotterdam is more popular for its nightlife and big city activities, while Saint Andrews is known for its food, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Saint Andrews is more touristy than Rotterdam and is popular for its reputation as the birthplace of golf. Rotterdam is popular for its modern architecture, the cube houses, and the market hall. It is also home to The Cube Houses.

The Cube Houses
The Cube Houses

How is Saint Andrews different from Rotterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Andrews or Rotterdam?

Saint Andrews
Rotterdam

Plenty of people visit the good sights and museums in both Saint Andrews and Rotterdam.

Saint Andrews offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. For many, a highlight of their trip is to play a round of golf at St. Andrews Links Golf Courses. Golf enthusiasts will also appreciate a visit to the British Golf Museum. Other interesting sights in the area include a visit to the ruins of the Cathedral of St. Andrew, visiting the St. Andrews University Museums, or stopping by St. Andrews Castle.

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.


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

Saint Andrews
Rotterdam

Saint Andrews 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.

Saint Andrews has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The town holds on to its history and heritage, and that stands out with the restaurant selection. There are a range of of independent cafes and pubs and surprisingly few major chain restaurants and fast food joints.

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 Saint Andrews or Rotterdam Better for Nightlife?

Saint Andrews
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its evening party scene.

Rotterdam offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Saint Andrews. There are a large number of pubs and bars throughout the town, and you'll find students hanging out and keeping things lively.

Is Saint Andrews or Rotterdam Better for Beaches?

Saint Andrews
Rotterdam

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

Saint Andrews offers a nice beach destination. Adding to the natural beauty is the beautiful coastline around St. Andrews. Some of the best beaches include West Sands Beach, Kingsbarns Beach, Castle Sands, and Saint Andrews Beach.

Rotterdam is not a beach destination.


Is Saint Andrews or Rotterdam Better for Hiking?

Saint Andrews
Rotterdam

Saint Andrews is a good destination for hiking. However, Rotterdam is not a hiking destination.

Saint Andrews offers some nice hiking trails. There are some beautiful hikes just outside of town. Check out the views from Chamcook Mountain or wander down the Van Horne Trail.

Rotterdam is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Andrews or Rotterdam?

Saint Andrews
Rotterdam

Both Saint Andrews and Rotterdam are great shopping destinations.

Saint Andrews is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The town is filled with boutique shops and local markets where you can buy unique items like artisan food, handmade crafts, or local art.

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.

Is Saint Andrews or Rotterdam Better for Families?

Saint Andrews
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Rotterdam is a very kid-friendly port city. Fun activities for kids include Miniworld Rotterdam, the Kids Marina, and Fun Forest, which has ziplines and a ropes course.

Saint Andrews is a family-friendly university town. There are some great playgrounds, parks, and gardens that kids will enjoy. Check out Kingbrae Gardens, Ministers Island, and Katy’s Cove. For museums, head to Ross Memorial Museum and Huntsman Fundy Discovery Aquarium.


Is Saint Andrews or Rotterdam Better for Couples?

Saint Andrews
Rotterdam

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

Saint Andrews is a great university town if you're traveling as a couple. The scenic landscapes, stunning views, and quaint charm make this a perfect place for couples to escape to. You can enjoy boat rides, seafood restaurants, golfing, and spas all while you soak up the natural beauty.

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

Is Saint Andrews or Rotterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saint Andrews
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Saint Andrews is not a good university town for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Rotterdam. There are a number of hostels around town as well as a good nightlife that appeals to backpackers.

Saint Andrews is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really a backpacker's destination, but there are some guesthouses and apartments that are more affordable.

Is Saint Andrews or Rotterdam Better for Students?

Saint Andrews
Rotterdam

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

Saint Andrews is a very popular place to visit for students. At its heart, this is a university town with a long standing history in teaching. You'll find the town's population doubles when students are in town.

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


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

Saint Andrews
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Rotterdam can get you around easily. There are trams, buses, metros, and even a ferry.

Saint Andrews has some public transit options. There are buses through St. Andrews.

Is Saint Andrews or Rotterdam a more walkable city?

Saint Andrews
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its ease of walking around.

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

Saint Andrews is a somewhat walkable university town. Parts of the town are compact enough to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Rotterdam or Saint Andrews?

How long in Saint Andrews or Rotterdam?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Saint Andrews and Rotterdam. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Rotterdam than in Saint Andrews. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Saint Andrews, and 1-3 days is enough time in Rotterdam.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rotterdam than Saint Andrews 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 Saint Andrews or Rotterdam? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Andrews 1-2 
    Rotterdam 1-3

One day in Saint Andrews or Rotterdam?

Even though Saint Andrews is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Saint Andrews has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Rotterdam is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.


A weekend in Saint Andrews or Rotterdam?

Saint Andrews is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this university town has to offer. This university town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rotterdam. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Saint Andrews or Rotterdam?

Saint Andrews is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the trendy big city of Rotterdam. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

A week in Saint Andrews or Rotterdam?

Saint Andrews is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the port city of Rotterdam. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United Kingdom, The Best River Cruises from Amsterdam, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Netherlands.


Which place is cheaper, Rotterdam or Saint Andrews?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Andrews is £215, while the average daily cost in Rotterdam is £130. 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 Saint Andrews and Rotterdam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Andrews £116
    Rotterdam £66
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Andrews £232
    Rotterdam £132
Compare Hotels in Saint Andrews and Rotterdam

Looking for a hotel in Saint Andrews or Rotterdam? 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 Saint Andrews


Hotels in Rotterdam


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.
    Saint Andrews £53
    Rotterdam £22

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Rotterdam

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

  • Rotterdam to Rotterdam Airport (RTM) - Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • Rotterdam Airport (RTM) to Rotterdam - Arrival Private Transfer: $38
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam hotels to Rotterdam Cruise Port : $38
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam Cruise Port to Rotterdam hotels: $38
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam Port to Rotterdam Airport (RTM): $38
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam Cruise Port to Rotterdam hotels: $60
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam Airport (RTM) to IJmuiden Port: $61
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam hotels to Rotterdam Cruise Port: $61
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam Port to Amsterdam Airport (AMS): $66
  • Rotterdam Airport(RTM) to Rotterdam - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $76
  • Rotterdam Airport RTM Private Transfer to Rotterdam in Sedan Car: $77
  • Rotterdam Private Transfer to Rotterdam Airport RTM in Sedan Car: $81

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Andrews or Rotterdam?

Prices for flights to both Rotterdam and Saint Andrews 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
    Saint Andrews £62
    Rotterdam £46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Rotterdam

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

  • Self-Guided Rotterdam BiteMe Food Tour: $43
  • 4-Hour Food Tour - Self-guided: $48
  • Guided Food Tour: $79
  • Guided Walking Food Tour: $84
  • Biking Rotterdam Food Tour with Local Guide: $86
  • Walking Rotterdam Food Tour: $86
  • WALKING DINNER ROTTERDAM | 3 courses + 3 drinks and a lot of fun: $87
  • Food Tour by Bike: $91
  • Private Walking Food Tour of Rotterdam: $120
  • Rotterdam Walking Dutch Food Tour: $153
  • Rotterdam Private 2-Hour Food Tour with Tastings: $160
  • Private Multicultural Bike Food Tour: $273

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Andrews £45
    Rotterdam £27

Tours and Activities in Saint Andrews

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Saint Andrews are as follows:

  • Private St Andrews Dark Side Tour: $145
  • Private St Andrews Town Tour for Future Students: $146
  • Private St. Andrews Tour with Dedicated Local Guide: $146
  • Private St. Andrews: Home of Golf Old Course Walking Tour: $146
  • Rebels, Romance & Raisins St. Andrew's Walking Audio Tour: $6.99
  • St Andrews - Watch Building Experience with Kartel Scotland: $245
  • St Andrews Ghost Tours: $20
  • St Andrews Golf Oriented Heritage Tours - Town and Old Course: $19
  • St Andrews History Tours: $19
  • St Andrews Must-Sees Daily Walking Tour (11am & 2pm): $18
  • St Andrews Old Course History Tour, for the Golfer: $19
  • St Andrews Walking Tours: $19

Tours and Activities in Rotterdam

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

  • Hightlights City Centre Walking Tour: $1.07
  • Rotterdam Spanish Tour 2 Hours: $2.61
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Rotterdam Walking Tour in 2 Hours : $3.27
  • Escape Game and Tour: $4.28
  • Rotterdam Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.56
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.95
  • Rotterdam Walking Audio Tour on Your Phone (ENG): $7.65
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $8.02
  • Waterbus Ticket to Dordrecht and/or Kinderdijk: $10
  • Private Smartphone Walking Tour on WhatsApp: $10
  • Dordrecht: Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Andrews £26
    Rotterdam £16

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 Tastings with Optional Tour: $8.02
  • Heineken Building former brewery | Guided Tour: $8.02
  • Stadshaven Brewery Tour with Beer Tastings: $12


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Saint Andrews and Rotterdam, we can see that Saint Andrews is more expensive. And not only is Rotterdam much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Saint Andrews would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Saint Andrews 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 Saint Andrews Expensive? and Is Rotterdam Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Saint Andrews or Rotterdam?

Rotterdam has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Saint Andrews. When comparing the sizes of Saint Andrews and Rotterdam, 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 Saint Andrews or Rotterdam?

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 Saint Andrews or Rotterdam in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Saint Andrews as well as Rotterdam. Many travelers come to Saint Andrews for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Rotterdam in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Saint Andrews is cooler than Rotterdam. Typically, the summer temperatures in Saint Andrews in July average around 14°C (58°F), and Rotterdam averages at about 17°C (62°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Rotterdam. In the summer, Saint Andrews often gets less sunshine than Rotterdam. Saint Andrews gets 184 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rotterdam receives 202 hours of full sun.

Saint Andrews usually gets less rain in July than Rotterdam. Saint Andrews gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Andrews 14°C (58°F) 
    Rotterdam 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Rotterdam in the Autumn?

Both Rotterdam and Saint Andrews are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Saint Andrews in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Rotterdam for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Saint Andrews is generally cooler than Rotterdam. Daily temperatures in Saint Andrews average around 10°C (49°F), and Rotterdam fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Saint Andrews usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Rotterdam during autumn. Saint Andrews gets 100 hours of sunny skies, while Rotterdam receives 105 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saint Andrews usually receives less rain than Rotterdam. Saint Andrews gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Andrews 10°C (49°F) 
    Rotterdam 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Rotterdam in the Winter?

Both Rotterdam and Saint Andrews during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Saint Andrews for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Rotterdam because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Rotterdam can be very cold. Saint Andrews can be very cold during winter. Saint Andrews is much warmer than Rotterdam in the winter. The daily temperature in Saint Andrews averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Rotterdam fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Saint Andrews often gets more sunshine than Rotterdam. Saint Andrews gets 58 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rotterdam receives 47 hours of full sun.

Saint Andrews usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Rotterdam. Saint Andrews gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Andrews 3°C (38°F) 
    Rotterdam 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Saint Andrews or Rotterdam in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Andrews and Rotterdam. The spring months attract visitors to Saint Andrews because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the activities around the city are the main draw to Rotterdam this time of year.

In the spring, Saint Andrews is around the same temperature as Rotterdam. Typically, the spring temperatures in Saint Andrews in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Rotterdam averages at about 8°C (46°F).

Saint Andrews usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Rotterdam during spring. Saint Andrews gets 155 hours of sunny skies, while Rotterdam receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saint Andrews usually receives less rain than Rotterdam. Saint Andrews gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Andrews 7°C (45°F) 
    Rotterdam 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Rotterdam and Saint Andrews

Saint Andrews Rotterdam
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 10°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 50 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 14°C (58°F) 52 mm (2 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 14°C (58°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)