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

Should you visit Zermatt 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 Zermatt and Rotterdam can help you decide which place is right for you.

Zermatt

Zermatt is a iconic, breathtaking, and charming town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a modern, trendy, and high energy port city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zermatt and Rotterdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zermatt or Rotterdam?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Zermatt than Rotterdam, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Zermatt is better known for its skiing, food, resorts, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Rotterdam is more popular for its museums and big city activities. Zermatt is more touristy than Rotterdam and is popular for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. Also, Zermatt is famous for The Matterhorn. Rotterdam is well known for its modern architecture, the cube houses, and the market hall.

The Matterhorn

How is Zermatt different from Rotterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Zermatt or Rotterdam Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for skiing. However, Rotterdam is not a skiing destination.

Zermatt is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around the world. This is Europe's highest ski resort and it is one of the most famous and beautiful, at the base of the world renowned Matterhown. The slopes attract professional skiers from around the world who come for the challenging skiing and spectacular setting.

Rotterdam is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Zermatt or Rotterdam?

Rotterdam is very good for its sights and museums. However, Zermatt is not a good town for its museums and history.

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.

While most people don't head to Zermatt specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. You don't visit Zermatt for the museums, but it is worth checking out the Matterhorn Museum while you're in town.

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

Zermatt 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.

Zermatt has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are actually many great restaurants right on the slopes, so you don't have to head into town to enjoy a meal. In town, you'll find many cozy restaurants that have terraces that offer spectacular views.

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 Zermatt or Rotterdam Better for Nightlife?

Both Zermatt and Rotterdam are high quality when it comes to partying.

Zermatt offers plenty to do in the evening. The town cuts loose in the evening with locals and visitors intermingling at the many bars and live music venues around town. Elegant fun is a great way to describe the nightlife scene and whether you're looking for a mellow night out or a more vibrant party, there's something for everyone.

Rotterdam has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Is Zermatt or Rotterdam Better for Resorts?

Zermatt is great for its luxury resorts. However, Rotterdam is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Zermatt to choose from. There are a number of upscale inns and hotels in town. Many have pools or hot tubs with views of the mountains.

Rotterdam is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Rotterdam Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for hiking. However, Rotterdam is not a hiking destination.

Zermatt is well-known for its hiking and trekking. There are countless hiking trails in the area that cater to all levels of fitness. Almost all trails offer some sort of view of Matterhorn, and it's possible to enjoy a great view without much effort. It's also possible to do a multi-day trek while staying in mountain huts which will get you well into the amazing scenery.

Rotterdam is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zermatt or Rotterdam?

Both Zermatt and Rotterdam are high quality shopping destinations.

Zermatt is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Luxury boutiques that sell jewelry, watches, and clothing are found all around town. You'll also find sporting equipment or anything that you may have forgotten. For the best shopping in town head to Bahnhofstrasse.

Rotterdam is well-known for its shopping. 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 Zermatt or Rotterdam Better for Families?

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Zermatt or Rotterdam.

Zermatt is a very family-friendly place to visit. From world class hiking to countless outdoor adventures, this is a great place to explore with kids. There are a number of kid-friendly ways to view Matterhorn as well as cable cars and Glacier Palace.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Rotterdam is very family-friendly. Fun activities for kids include Miniworld Rotterdam, the Kids Marina, and Fun Forest, which has ziplines and a ropes course.

Is Zermatt or Rotterdam Better for Couples?

Zermatt is an amazing town to visit for couples. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for romance.

Zermatt is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Couples who seek an adrenaline filled adventure will be in heaven in this iconic alpine destination. There are breathtaking views of Matterhorn, stunning hikes, impressive skiing, and a charming town where you can enjoy a great meal after a day filled with adventure.

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

Is Zermatt or Rotterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zermatt is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Zermatt. There are a couple of hostels in town that cater to the backpacker and budget crowd. It's an expensive place to visit, with food and entertainment costing a lot, but if you can swing it, it's well worth a visit.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Rotterdam. There are a number of hostels around town as well as a good nightlife that appeals to backpackers.

Is Zermatt or Rotterdam Better for Students?

Rotterdam is a well-known place for students. However, Zermatt is not popular with students.

Rotterdam is very popular with students. The city has a great job market and a lot of activities that appeal to international students.

Zermatt is not popular with students.

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

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

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

Zermatt has some public transit options. There are ebuses in town, but the town itself is car free and walking is your best option.

Is Zermatt or Rotterdam a more walkable city?

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

Zermatt is a very easy town to get around on foot. There aren't any cars in town so this is a very pedestrian-friendly town with charming streets and walking paths.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Rotterdam or Zermatt?

How long in Zermatt or Rotterdam?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Zermatt and Rotterdam. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Zermatt than in Rotterdam. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zermatt, and 1-3 days is enough time in Rotterdam.

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

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

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

One day in Zermatt or Rotterdam?

You'll find food and shopping around the town of Zermatt. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Because Rotterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This port city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Zermatt or Rotterdam?

You'll find shopping and skiing around the stunning destination of Zermatt. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Because Rotterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Rotterdam has to offer.

Five days in Zermatt or Rotterdam?

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the stunning town of Zermatt. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

Rotterdam 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.

A week in Zermatt or Rotterdam?

Zermatt is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rotterdam. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Rotterdam. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland, The Best River Cruises from Amsterdam, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Netherlands.

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

Which is Bigger, Zermatt or Rotterdam?

Rotterdam has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Zermatt. When comparing the sizes of Zermatt 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 Zermatt 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 Zermatt or Rotterdam in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Zermatt as well as Rotterdam. Many visitors come to Zermatt in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Rotterdam for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Zermatt is generally a little warmer than Rotterdam. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 23°C (73°F), and Rotterdam fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Rotterdam. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zermatt this time of the year. In the summer, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Rotterdam. Zermatt gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rotterdam receives 202 hours of full sun.

Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the summer. Zermatt usually gets more rain in July than Rotterdam. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Rotterdam in the Autumn?

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

Zermatt is a little warmer than Rotterdam in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 15°C (58°F) in October, and Rotterdam fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Rotterdam during autumn. Zermatt gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Rotterdam receives 105 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Zermatt. In October, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Rotterdam. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Zermatt or Rotterdam in the Winter?

Both Rotterdam and Zermatt during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Zermatt because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, 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 Zermatt can be very cold. In the winter, Zermatt is much warmer than Rotterdam. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zermatt in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Rotterdam averages at about 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Rotterdam. Zermatt gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rotterdam receives 47 hours of full sun.

Zermatt usually gets more rain in January than Rotterdam. Zermatt gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zermatt or Rotterdam in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Zermatt and Rotterdam. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Zermatt this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Rotterdam for the activities around the city.

In April, Zermatt is generally much warmer than Rotterdam. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 13°C (55°F), and Rotterdam fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Rotterdam during spring. Zermatt gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Rotterdam receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

Zermatt gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Rotterdam. Zermatt gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Rotterdam and Zermatt