Which place is cheaper, Rotterdam or Coimbra?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.
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Should you visit Coimbra or Rotterdam?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
Should I visit Coimbra or Rotterdam? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.
Where Should I go: Coimbra or Rotterdam?
Coimbra
Coimbra is located in Central Portugal in the Centro Region. It's the third largest city in the country with about 460,000 people living in the entire region. It is also where you'll find the University of Coimbra, which is one of the oldest universities in Europe and the oldest academic institution in the Portuguese speaking world. During the High Middle Ages, Coimbra served as the nation's capital and there are archaeological structures that date back to the Roman era.
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 Food and Culinary Tours in Portugal, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Portugal, The Best River Cruises from Amsterdam, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Netherlands.
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Coimbra Prices
Portugal PricesRotterdam Prices
Netherlands Prices -
Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayCoimbra €138Rotterdam €191
The average daily cost (per person) in Coimbra is €138, 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 Coimbra and Rotterdam in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personCoimbra €44Rotterdam €77
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomCoimbra €88Rotterdam €154
Compare Hotels in Coimbra and Rotterdam
Looking for a hotel in Coimbra 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.
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: Coimbra Hotel Prices and Rotterdam Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Coimbra €11Rotterdam €26
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Coimbra
Also for Coimbra, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Private Transfer Coimbra to Aveiro Costa Nova : $298
- Private Transfer Coimbra to Take Christ's Convent : $274
- Fátima Private Transfer to/from Lisbon: $161
- Transfers Aveiro or Coimbra to Lisbon Airport: $159
- Private transfer in Coimbra City : $95
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: $88
- Rotterdam Private Transfer to Rotterdam Airport RTM by Luxury Van: $96
- Rotterdam Airport(RTM) to Rotterdam - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $79
- Rotterdam Airport RTM Private Transfer to Rotterdam in Sedan Car: $88
- Rotterdam Airport RTM Private Transfer to Rotterdam by Luxury Van: $96
- Rotterdam Airport (RTM) Private Transfer to Rotterdam/Amsterdam: $35
- Private transfer: Rotterdam>Amsterdam, 2h Stop in De Haar Castle: $277
- Private transfer from Rotterdam to Amsterdam, 2h Stop in Haarlem: $287
- Private transfer from Rotterdam to Amsterdam, 2h Sightseeing Stop: $277
- Private transfer from Rotterdam cruise port to Amsterdam: $176
- Private transfer from Rotterdam cruise port to AMS Schiphol: $176
- Private transfer Schiphol (AMS) to or from Rotterdam: $179
Is it cheaper to fly into Coimbra or Rotterdam?
Prices for flights to both Rotterdam and Coimbra 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
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Food Meals for one dayCoimbra €83Rotterdam €93
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Coimbra
For Coimbra, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- Tomar Cooking Class & Garden-to-Table Meal with Lake Views: $142
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
- Food Tour by Bike: $105
- Guided Walking Food Tour: $105
- Biking Rotterdam Food Tour with Local Guide: $106
- Walking Rotterdam Food Tour: $106
- Rotterdam Private 2-Hour Food Tour with Tastings: $176
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Coimbra €18Rotterdam €32
Tours and Activities in Coimbra
For Coimbra, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:
- 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Coimbra : $218
- A tour between Cascades and Schist Villages, Piodão: $155
- An adventure through the Forest and Palace of Bussaco - Coimbra: $89
- An adventure through the Schist Villages of Lousã: $89
- An adventure through the Schist Villages of Lousã (with walk): $155
- Arista Tour - Penacova Windmills and Landscapes (noon): $89
- Buggy Tour in Serra da Lousã 2Hours: $143
- Buracas do Casmilo Private Hiking Tour from Coimbra: $101
- Coimbra Adventure Discovery and Learning with a Local: $42
- Coimbra City Tour : $24
- Coimbra Downhill Tour Highlights History and Student Traditions: $5.96
- Coimbra Downtown Walking Tour with uptown insights : $5.96
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: $202
- Art and Architecture Walking Tour in Rotterdam - guided by Architects: $72
- Best Intro Tour of Rotterdam with a Local: $166
- Best of Private Walking Tour with a Local: $108
- Best of small-group walking tour: $106
- Bonton Male Dance Show Evening Ticket: $59
- Breda Fun Puzzle Quest: True Lord Self-Guided Tour: $5.96
- Breda Highlight Bike Tour: $35
- Cruise Terminal Private Tour by Luxury Van: $350
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayCoimbra €12Rotterdam €19
Sample the Local Flavors in Coimbra
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Coimbra:
- Port Wine Tasting in Coimbra: $72
- Self-drive Wine Tour in Bairrada Region: $251
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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Coimbra and Rotterdam, we can see that Rotterdam is more expensive. And not only is Coimbra much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Coimbra would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Coimbra 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 Rotterdam would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Rotterdam than you might in Coimbra.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Coimbra Expensive? and Is Rotterdam Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Coimbra or Rotterdam?
Rotterdam has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Coimbra. When comparing the sizes of Coimbra 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 Coimbra 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 Coimbra or Rotterdam in the Summer?
The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Coimbra and Rotterdam. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Rotterdam because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.
Coimbra is a little warmer than Rotterdam in the summer. The daily temperature in Coimbra averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Rotterdam fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).
People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Rotterdam this time of the year. In Coimbra, it's very sunny this time of the year. Coimbra usually receives more sunshine than Rotterdam during summer. Coimbra gets 308 hours of sunny skies, while Rotterdam receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.
In July, Coimbra usually receives less rain than Rotterdam. Coimbra gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.
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Summer Average Temperatures JulyCoimbra 23°C (73°F)Rotterdam 17°C (62°F)
Should I visit Coimbra or Rotterdam in the Autumn?
The autumn brings many poeple to Coimbra as well as Rotterdam. Additionally, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Rotterdam this time of year.
In the autumn, Coimbra is much warmer than Rotterdam. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Coimbra in October average around 18°C (65°F), and Rotterdam averages at about 11°C (51°F).
In the autumn, Coimbra often gets more sunshine than Rotterdam. Coimbra gets 184 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rotterdam receives 105 hours of full sun.
Coimbra receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Coimbra usually gets more rain in October than Rotterdam. Coimbra gets 101 mm (4 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.
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Autumn Average Temperatures OctoberCoimbra 18°C (65°F)Rotterdam 11°C (51°F)
Should I visit Coimbra or Rotterdam in the Winter?
Both Rotterdam and Coimbra are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Also, many travelers come to Rotterdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.
Be prepared for some very cold days in Rotterdam. In January, Coimbra is generally much warmer than Rotterdam. Daily temperatures in Coimbra average around 11°C (51°F), and Rotterdam fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).
Coimbra usually receives more sunshine than Rotterdam during winter. Coimbra gets 124 hours of sunny skies, while Rotterdam receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.
It's quite rainy in Coimbra. In January, Coimbra usually receives more rain than Rotterdam. Coimbra gets 139 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.
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Winter Average Temperatures JanuaryCoimbra 11°C (51°F)Rotterdam 2°C (36°F)
Should I visit Coimbra or Rotterdam in the Spring?
Both Rotterdam and Coimbra during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, many visitors come to Rotterdam in the spring for the activities around the city.
Coimbra is much warmer than Rotterdam in the spring. The daily temperature in Coimbra averages around 15°C (59°F) in April, and Rotterdam fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).
It's quite sunny in Coimbra. In the spring, Coimbra often gets more sunshine than Rotterdam. Coimbra gets 217 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rotterdam receives 158 hours of full sun.
Coimbra usually gets more rain in April than Rotterdam. Coimbra gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.
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Spring Average Temperatures AprilCoimbra 15°C (59°F)Rotterdam 8°C (46°F)
Typical Weather for Rotterdam and Coimbra
| Coimbra | Rotterdam | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
| Jan | 11°C (51°F) | 139 mm (5.5 in) | 2°C (36°F) | 66 mm (2.6 in) |
| Feb | 12°C (53°F) | 140 mm (5.5 in) | 3°C (37°F) | 49 mm (1.9 in) |
| Mar | 13°C (56°F) | 86 mm (3.4 in) | 5°C (41°F) | 63 mm (2.5 in) |
| Apr | 15°C (59°F) | 92 mm (3.6 in) | 8°C (46°F) | 52 mm (2 in) |
| May | 17°C (63°F) | 77 mm (3 in) | 12°C (54°F) | 61 mm (2.4 in) |
| Jun | 21°C (69°F) | 49 mm (1.9 in) | 15°C (59°F) | 68 mm (2.7 in) |
| Jul | 23°C (73°F) | 14 mm (0.6 in) | 17°C (62°F) | 75 mm (3 in) |
| Aug | 23°C (73°F) | 13 mm (0.5 in) | 17°C (62°F) | 71 mm (2.8 in) |
| Sep | 22°C (71°F) | 48 mm (1.9 in) | 14°C (57°F) | 67 mm (2.6 in) |
| Oct | 18°C (65°F) | 101 mm (4 in) | 11°C (51°F) | 72 mm (2.8 in) |
| Nov | 14°C (57°F) | 128 mm (5 in) | 6°C (43°F) | 81 mm (3.2 in) |
| Dec | 11°C (52°F) | 130 mm (5.1 in) | 3°C (38°F) | 80 mm (3.1 in) |
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.