A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tampere vs. Rotterdam for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Tampere or Rotterdam?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Tampere and Rotterdam can help you decide which place is right for you.

Where Should I go: Tampere or Rotterdam?

Tampere

Tampere is a city in southern Finland. It sits between Nasijarvi Lake and Pyhajarvi Lake, with the Tammerkoski rapids in between. It is one of the larger Finnish cities, with more than 200,000 inhabitants, but Tampere has managed to keep the small town feel. The city center is compact in size, and the atmosphere is friendly and casual. The city is located on a scenic spot on a narrow isthmus. The Tammerkoski rapids and their riverbanks form the backdrop for the old industrial buildings, and ridges formed thousands of years ago by ancient seas and retreating ice offer fantastic views over the two lakes. Original architecture and innovative urban development blend together to please both viewers and users of the built environment. Enjoy the surrounding lakes on peaceful rowboat trips or on cruises on larger vessels, or concentrate on the urban sights from a sightseeing bus. Regenerated industrial buildings now house quirky museums, enticing shops, pubs, cinemas and cafes. Tampere has a down-to-earth vitality that makes it a favorite for many visitors.

Rotterdam

Rotterdam is the second largest city in the Netherlands and has the largest port in Europe. It's famously known as a city of architecture. In a few square kilometers of the city center you can get a complete overview of twentieth century architecture within Rotterdam.

Rotterdam is a very diverse, international, and hard working city. Nearly half of the city's population is not native to the Netherlands or have at least one parent from outside the country. Muslim's make up a significant portion of the population. Other area's represented include Cape Verde and the Dutch Antilles.

There's an air of optimism that permeates the entire city. There are frequent events, festivals and performances, making Rotterdam an enjoyable place to spend some time. Water is also an integral part of the city design.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Finland, The Best Budget Tours to Finland, The Best River Cruises from Amsterdam, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Netherlands.


Which place is cheaper, Rotterdam or Tampere?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Tampere is €172, while the average daily cost in Rotterdam is €191. 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 Tampere and Rotterdam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tampere 80
    Rotterdam 82
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tampere 160
    Rotterdam 164
Compare Hotels in Tampere and Rotterdam

Looking for a hotel in Tampere 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 Tampere


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: Tampere Hotel Prices and Rotterdam Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tampere 59
    Rotterdam 26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tampere

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

  • Forest Campfire Experience with Hotel Transfer: $404
  • Tampere Private Transfer from Tampere city centre to Tampere airport: $119

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Rotterdam

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

  • Private direct transfer from Rotterdam to Brussels: $288
  • Private transfer from Rotterdam to Amsterdam, 2h Stop in Haarlem: $282
  • Private direct transfer from Rotterdam to Antwerp: $265
  • Private transfer: Rotterdam to Amsterdam, 2h Stop in The Hague: $263
  • Private direct transfer from Rotterdam to Hoorn: $227
  • Private direct transfer from Rotterdam to Arnhem: $218
  • Private direct transfer from Rotterdam to Antwerp: $208
  • Rotterdam to Amsterdam Airport(AMS) - Departure Private Transfer: $200
  • Private Rotterdam Cruise Port Departure Transfer to AMS Schiphol Airport: $186
  • Private Rotterdam Cruise Port Departure Transfer to Amsterdam: $186
  • Private direct transfer from Rotterdam Cruise Port to Amsterdam: $183
  • Private Transfer from Rotterdam Cruise Port to Amsterdam hotels: $181

Is it cheaper to fly into Tampere or Rotterdam?

Prices for flights to both Rotterdam and Tampere 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
    Tampere 57
    Rotterdam 89

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tampere

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

  • Tampere Food Tour Local Tastings, Meal & Rooftop City Views: $105
  • Food Tour with Tastings, Meal, & Rooftop City Views: $110
  • From Private Lakeside Sauna & Campfire Dinner: $681

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Rotterdam

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

  • Pizza Cruise: $46
  • Rotterdam Food Tour: Taste The Alternative Side Of The City: $79
  • Guided Food Tour: $80
  • Historic Delfshaven: Lunch or Dinner with a Private Chef: $87
  • Iconic Rotterdam Food Tour: 7 Local Dishes with a Guide: $100
  • Food Tour by Bike: $104
  • Guided Walking Food Tour: $104
  • Rotterdam Walking Food Tour with Delicious Tastings: $105
  • Private Walking Food Tour of Rotterdam: $129
  • Rotterdam Private 2-Hour Food Tour with Tastings: $175

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tampere 24
    Rotterdam 31

Tours and Activities in Tampere

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

  • Kintulammi Nature Experience (Nature reserve near Tampere): $289
  • Private Forest Mind Tour in Tampere: $65
  • Tampere Panoramic Tour: $166
  • Tampere Private Walking Tour with a Local: $48
  • Tampere Scenic Bike Tour with Sauna and Local Flavors: $105
  • Calm lake Experience at Hatanpää Manor: $75
  • City and Nature Walking Tour with Local Guide: $126
  • Fatbike Tour with Coffee Stop: $63
  • Finnish Sauna & Lake Swim Bike Tour: $126
  • Guided Walking Tour with Coffee & Snacks: $52
  • In the Patrons’ Footsteps Walking Tour: $150
  • Midnight Sun Canoe Tour with Crepes: $58

Tours and Activities in Rotterdam

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

  • "Remastered" Audiovisual Experience in Rotterdam: $31
  • 2-Hour Walking Tour in Gouda All inclusive: $21
  • All Inclusive, Private Tour Rotterdam + Euromast 360º view: $195
  • All-Inclusive Private Windmill Tour to Kinderdijk from Rotterdam: $223
  • Art and Architecture Walking Tour in Rotterdam - guided by Architects: $71
  • Best of City Highlights walking tour: $94
  • Best of Private Walking Tour with a Local: $48
  • Best of small-group walking tour: $23
  • Bonton Male Dance Show Evening Ticket: $58
  • Breda Fun Puzzle Quest: True Lord Self-Guided Tour: $5.87
  • Cruise Terminal Private Tour by Luxury Van: $346
  • Cultural Walking Tour in Rotterdam: $53

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tampere 10
    Rotterdam 19

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' Beer Tasting: $9.31
  • Brewery Noordt Tour Including Two Beers: $20
  • Stadshaven Brewery Tour with Beer Tastings: $26
  • The Ultimate Rotterdam Bar Crawl Experience: $41
  • Ludwig's Original Pub Crawl with VIP Club Entry: $52
  • Ludwig's Private Pub Crawl with VIP Club Entry: $576


When comparing the travel costs between Tampere and Rotterdam, we can see that Rotterdam is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Tampere or Rotterdam?

Rotterdam has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Tampere. When comparing the sizes of Tampere 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 Tampere or Rotterdam?

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 Tampere or Rotterdam in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Tampere is around the same temperature as Rotterdam. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tampere in July average around 16°C (61°F), and Rotterdam averages at about 17°C (62°F).

It's quite sunny in Rotterdam. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tampere. Tampere usually receives more sunshine than Rotterdam during summer. Tampere gets 247 hours of sunny skies, while Rotterdam receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Tampere usually receives around the same amount of rain as Rotterdam. Tampere gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Tampere 16°C (61°F) 
    Rotterdam 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Tampere or Rotterdam in the Autumn?

Both Rotterdam and Tampere during the autumn are popular places to visit. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Rotterdam because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Tampere is generally much colder than Rotterdam. Daily temperatures in Tampere average around 5°C (42°F), and Rotterdam fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Tampere often gets less sunshine than Rotterdam. Tampere gets 81 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rotterdam receives 105 hours of full sun.

Tampere usually gets less rain in October than Rotterdam. Tampere gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tampere 5°C (42°F) 
    Rotterdam 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Tampere or Rotterdam in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Rotterdam in the winter. The weather in Tampere can be very cold. Tampere is much colder than Rotterdam in the winter. The daily temperature in Tampere averages around -7°C (19°F) in January, and Rotterdam fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Tampere usually receives less sunshine than Rotterdam during winter. Tampere gets 37 hours of sunny skies, while Rotterdam receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tampere usually receives less rain than Rotterdam. Tampere gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tampere -7°C (19°F) 
    Rotterdam 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Tampere or Rotterdam in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Tampere as well as Rotterdam. Also, many travelers come to Rotterdam for the activities around the city.

It's quite cold in Tampere in the spring. In the spring, Tampere is much colder than Rotterdam. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tampere in April average around 3°C (38°F), and Rotterdam averages at about 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, Tampere often gets more sunshine than Rotterdam. Tampere gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rotterdam receives 158 hours of full sun.

Tampere usually gets less rain in April than Rotterdam. Tampere gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tampere 3°C (38°F) 
    Rotterdam 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Rotterdam and Tampere

Tampere Rotterdam
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -7°C (19°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Feb -7°C (19°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar -3°C (27°F) 25 mm (1 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 3°C (38°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 10°C (50°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 16°C (61°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 15°C (59°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 10°C (50°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 5°C (42°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 0°C (32°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Dec -4°C (24°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)