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

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

Bath

Bath is a charming, historical, and beautiful spa town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come to Bath because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Bath travel costs.

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 food, shopping, and museums. See Rotterdam travel costs.

Bath and Rotterdam: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Historic Roman Baths
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Bath or Rotterdam?

You'll generally find more things to do in Rotterdam than Bath. Rotterdam is bigger than Bath, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Rotterdam is better known for its food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Bath is more popular for its museums and attractions, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Bath is more touristy than Rotterdam and is known for its world-renowned Roman built baths as well as its historical architecture and many museums. Rotterdam is well known for its modern architecture, the cube houses, and the market hall. Also, Rotterdam is famous for The Cube Houses.

The Cube Houses
The Cube Houses

How is Bath different from Rotterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bath
Rotterdam

Bath is an amazing spa town 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, Bath has many famous sights for visitors. The main draw to Bath is the rich history and most sights are focused on the area's spa city past. The Roman Baths are a highlight of a trip to the city, but other not to be missed places include Bath Abbey, the Royal Crescent, and Pulteney Bridge.

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

Bath
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Bath is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Rotterdam. The city's restaurant scene is diverse. There are ethnic restaurants, vegan restaurants, local restaurants, and some popular chains. The city is also known for its food halls, which provide a variety of gourmet flavors from around the globe.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Bath. Sample afternoon tea or try some local fish and chips. There are a diversity of restaurants to choose from so it's easy to find local favorites, vegetarian options, or international cuisine.

Is Bath or Rotterdam Better for Nightlife?

Bath
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. Also, Bath is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Rotterdam has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Bath has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Head to George Street, which is the liveliest part of the city at night. You'll find a mix of high end restaurants, pubs, and cocktail bars that keep the energy high. One of the most popular nightlife venues in Bath is Bath Komedia, which is a popular music and comedy club.

Is Bath or Rotterdam Better for its Old Town?

Bath
Rotterdam

Bath is great for its historic old town charm. However, Rotterdam does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Bath. The Roman old town has charming streets and a vibrant environment. On pleasant weekends you'll find tourists and locals alike filling the restaurants and town squares, giving the city an energy and lively atmosphere.

Rotterdam does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Bath or Rotterdam?

Bath
Rotterdam

Shoppers can find a variety of high quality stores in both Bath and Rotterdam.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Bath. Head to Stall Street and Union Street for the most popular shopping streets in town. Many visitors pick up jewelry, glass, and fudge or other sweets while exploring the area.

Rotterdam is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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 Bath or Rotterdam More Beautiful?

Bath
Rotterdam

Bath is an amazing spa town to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Rotterdam is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Bath because of it's amazing beauty. Seeped in history, this city is one of the most beautiful in the region.

Rotterdam is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Bath or Rotterdam Better for Families?

Bath
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Bath is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Bath. The city is all about history and architecture, so at times it can be challenging for the kids to stay entertained. For a change of pace, take a boat on the canal or explore one of the beautiful gardens.


Is Bath or Rotterdam Better for Couples?

Bath
Rotterdam

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

Bath is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. With its beautiful architecture and fascinating history, this city is perfect for couples. Take a canal cruise or wander through the scenic areas to enjoy a romantic trip.

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

Is Bath or Rotterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bath
Rotterdam

Bath and Rotterdam are both notable destinations for backpackers.

Bath is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find a surprising number of hostels around town so it's not hard to meet other backpackers while you're in the area.

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.

Is Bath or Rotterdam Better for Students?

Bath
Rotterdam

Both Bath and Rotterdam are high quality destinations for students.

Bath is very popular with students. The University of Bath offers a number of different programs so this is a popular city for local and international students.

Rotterdam is a great spa town to visit as a student. The city has a great job market and a lot of activities that appeal to international students.


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

Bath
Rotterdam

Rotterdam is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Bath is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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

You'll find some public transit in Bath, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. You likely won't need public transit because it's easy to walk most places, but there are buses around town.

Is Bath or Rotterdam a more walkable city?

Bath
Rotterdam

Bath is an amazing spa 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.

Bath is a very easy spa town to get around on foot. It is a very walkable city with most sights and activities packed into a very compact area. There are also many pedestrian areas that are easy to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Rotterdam or Bath?

How long in Bath or Rotterdam?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bath and Rotterdam. In our opinion, Bath has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Bath than Rotterdam. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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


  • How many days in Bath or Rotterdam? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bath 1-3 
    Rotterdam 1-3

One day in Bath or Rotterdam?

You'll find shopping and museums around the spa town of Bath. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bath has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Rotterdam is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.


A weekend in Bath or Rotterdam?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the architectural destination of Bath. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this spa town has to offer. This spa town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Rotterdam is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Bath or Rotterdam?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the architectural spa town of Bath. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the trendy big city of Rotterdam. This port city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bath or Rotterdam?

Bath is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

The modern port city of Rotterdam offers nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 10-Day Tours from London, The Best River Cruises from Amsterdam, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Netherlands.


Which place is cheaper, Rotterdam or Bath?

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 Bath is £172, while the average daily cost in Rotterdam is £167. 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 Bath and Rotterdam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bath £79
    Rotterdam £67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bath £158
    Rotterdam £134
Compare Hotels in Bath and Rotterdam

Looking for a hotel in Bath 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 Bath


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: Bath Hotel Prices and Rotterdam Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bath £26
    Rotterdam £23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bath

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

  • LHR to Bath Executive SUV Transfer: $795
  • Private Transfer: From Bath to London Heathrow Airport.: $174
  • "Private Transfer: London Heathrow Airport to Bath".: $174
  • Bus Transfer to/from Bristol Airport: $24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Rotterdam

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

  • Rotterdam Private Transfer to Rotterdam Airport RTM in Sedan Car: $89
  • Rotterdam Private Transfer to Rotterdam Airport RTM by Luxury Van: $96
  • Rotterdam Airport(RTM) to Rotterdam - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $79
  • Rotterdam Airport RTM Round-Trip Private Transfer: $167
  • Rotterdam Airport RTM Private Transfer to Rotterdam in Sedan Car: $89
  • Rotterdam Airport RTM Private Transfer to Rotterdam by Luxury Van: $95
  • Rotterdam Airport (RTM) Private Transfer to Rotterdam/Amsterdam: $35
  • Private transfer: Rotterdam>Amsterdam, 2h Stop in De Haar Castle: $278
  • Private transfer: Rotterdam to Amsterdam, 2h Stop in The Hague: $267
  • Private transfer from Rotterdam to Amsterdam, 2h Stop in Leiden: $262
  • Private transfer from Rotterdam to Amsterdam, 2h Stop in Haarlem: $286
  • Private transfer from Rotterdam to Amsterdam, 2h Stop in Gouda: $267

Is it cheaper to fly into Bath or Rotterdam?

Prices for flights to both Rotterdam and Bath 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
    Bath £75
    Rotterdam £81

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Rotterdam

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

  • Rotterdam Food Tour: Taste The Alternative Side Of The City: $79
  • Guided Food Tour: $81
  • Historic Delfshaven: Lunch or Dinner with a Private Chef: $88
  • Rotterdam City Center Food Tour: $89
  • Food Tour by Bike: $105
  • Guided Walking Food Tour: $105
  • Biking Rotterdam Food Tour with Local Guide: $106
  • Walking Rotterdam Food Tour: $106
  • Private Walking Food Tour of Rotterdam: $131
  • Rotterdam Private 2-Hour Food Tour with Tastings: $176
  • Private Food Tour in Rotterdam Taste the Future: $286

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bath £17
    Rotterdam £28
Typical Entertainment Prices in Bath

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Bath's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Thermal Bath Spa
    £35

Tours and Activities in Bath

For Bath, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Bath : 2 Hour Historic Walking Tour With An App: $9.99
  • Bath Private Guided Walking Tour: $294
  • 2 Hour Private City Walking Tour: $214
  • Bespoke Jane Austen-inspired Guided Tours: $202
  • Best of Bath Walking Tour Ltd, Georgian Tour.: $27
  • Bridgerton Filming Locations Walking Tour with Music: $23
  • Bridgeton Walking Tour with an APP: $9.99
  • Christmas Market and City Highlights Walking Tour: $529
  • City Walking Tour & Exploration Game: $35
  • City Walking Tour with Optional Roman Baths Entry: $27
  • Coffee Roasting Experience: $81
  • Guided City Walking Tour with Entry To The Roman Baths: $88

Tours and Activities in Rotterdam

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

  • Unique Bike Adventure Gouda: cheese, snacks, drinks and lunch!: $83
  • "Remastered" Audiovisual Experience in Rotterdam: $31
  • 2-Hour Walking Tour in Gouda All inclusive: $21
  • All-Inclusive Private Windmill Tour to Kinderdijk from Rotterdam: $195
  • Art and Architecture Walking Tour in Rotterdam - guided by Architects: $71
  • Best Intro Tour of Rotterdam with a Local: $165
  • Best of Private Walking Tour with a Local: $108
  • Best of small-group walking tour: $106
  • Boat & Beer Walking Tour: $113
  • Bonton Male Dance Show Evening Ticket: $59
  • Breda Fun Puzzle Quest: True Lord Self-Guided Tour: $5.94
  • Breda Highlight Bike Tour: $35

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bath £14
    Rotterdam £17

Sample the Local Flavors in Bath

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bath:

  • Vineyard Tour, Wine Tasting, and Music Pairing: $133

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: $9.40
  • Stadshaven Brewery Tour with Beer Tastings: $15
  • Pub Crawl with Local Guide: $20
  • Brewery Noordt Tour Including Two Beers: $20
  • The Ultimate Rotterdam Bar Crawl Experience: $41
  • Ludwig's Original Pub Crawl with VIP Club Entry: $53
  • Ludwig's Private Pub Crawl with VIP Club Entry: $582


When comparing the travel costs between Bath and Rotterdam, we can see that Bath 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 Bath Expensive? and Is Rotterdam Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Bath or Rotterdam?

Rotterdam has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Bath. When comparing the sizes of Bath 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.