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

Should you visit Rotterdam or Brussels?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Rotterdam and Brussels. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

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

Brussels

Brussels is a historic, cosmopolitan, and authentic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Brussels travel costs.

Rotterdam and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rotterdam or Brussels?

You'll generally find more things to do in Brussels than Rotterdam. Brussels is bigger than Rotterdam, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Brussels is better known for its museums and attractions, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Rotterdam is more popular for its nightlife. Brussels is more touristy than Rotterdam and is popular for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. Also, Brussels is famous for La Grand Place (Grote Markt). Rotterdam is well known for its modern architecture, the cube houses, and the market hall.

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Rotterdam different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Brussels is great for its historical sights. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its sights and museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Brussels. Popular sights include Saint-Michel Cathedral, Place Royale, and the Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts. The city is filled with impressive architecture, fascinating art museums, and innovative science and technology museums.

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 Rotterdam or Brussels? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Rotterdam and Brussels can be difficult as they are each excellent in their own way.

Rotterdam has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Brussels makes for a great culinary experience. While the city is most known for its waffles and fries, the diversity of dishes and international restaurant selection continues to grow. There are Lebanese, Japanese, and Indian restaurants among others. Popular local dishes include moules-frites, waterzooi (a stew), and stoemp (made with mashed potatoes and vegetables).

Is Rotterdam or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

Rotterdam is well known for nightlife. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Rotterdam is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Brussels has a few options to choose from. The city's nightlife is quieter and more mellow than some other major cities around Europe. That doesn't mean there aren't plenty of dance clubs and bars where you can hang out. Keep your wits about you after the sun goes down as some areas are a bit rougher than others.

Is Rotterdam or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

Brussels 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 Brussels. The old town in the city center is where you'll find the greatest concentration of historic sights. The area is surrounded by tree-lined boulevards and is easy to explore.

Rotterdam does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Rotterdam or Brussels?

Brussels is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for shopping.

Many people travel to Brussels specifically to go shopping. Although it's famous for diamonds, the city also has many shopping streets where you can find designer brands, vintage shops, and other unique boutiques that are fun to explore.

Rotterdam is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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 Rotterdam or Brussels Better for Families?

Both Rotterdam and Brussels are excellent family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Rotterdam. Fun activities for kids include Miniworld Rotterdam, the Kids Marina, and Fun Forest, which has ziplines and a ropes course.

Brussels is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of unique kid-friendly activities including a Mini-Europe Museum, a Comic Strip Museum, and Train World. The city is also a chocolate lover's dream with many factories and chocolate shops around town.

Is Rotterdam or Brussels Better for Couples?

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

Brussels is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. From beautiful buildings and museums to shopping, dining, and chocolate shops, there are plenty of romantic spots around town. There's a vibrant nightlife scene and many diverse restaurants that couples can enjoy exploring.

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

Is Rotterdam or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels 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 Brussels. The city has an active nightlife and a number of hostels that are great for backpackers, but do take note that some areas can get a bit rough at night, so make sure you understand where you are.

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 Rotterdam or Brussels Better for Students?

For students, both Rotterdam and Brussels are excellent places to visit.

Many students visit Rotterdam. The city has a great job market and a lot of activities that appeal to international students.

Brussels is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.

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

Brussels is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its public transit.

Public transit in Brussels is top-notch. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

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

Is Rotterdam or Brussels a more walkable city?

Rotterdam and Brussels are excellent when it comes to walkability.

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

Brussels is very walkable. If you stay in the historical area, it's easy to walk around and many boulevards are being converted to pedestrian areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Rotterdam?

How long in Rotterdam or Brussels?

In either Rotterdam or Brussels, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Brussels than Rotterdam because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Rotterdam, and 1-5 days is enough time in Brussels.

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

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

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

One day in Rotterdam or Brussels?

Rotterdam is a big city with plenty to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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

A weekend in Rotterdam or Brussels?

Rotterdam is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this port city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Rotterdam, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic big city of Brussels. 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 city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Rotterdam or Brussels?

Rotterdam is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find nightlife and food around the colorful city of Brussels. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the shopping. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Rotterdam or Brussels?

Rotterdam is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This port city offers something for everyone.

Brussels 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best River Cruises from Amsterdam, The Best Bicycle Tours in Netherlands, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Belgium, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Belgium.

When comparing the travel costs between Rotterdam and Brussels, 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 Rotterdam Expensive? and Is Brussels Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Rotterdam or Brussels?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 70% larger than the population of Rotterdam. When comparing the sizes of Rotterdam and Brussels, 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 Rotterdam or Brussels?

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 Rotterdam or Brussels in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Rotterdam as well as Brussels. The summer months attract visitors to Rotterdam because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Brussels this time of year.

In the summer, Rotterdam is around the same temperature as Brussels. Typically, the summer temperatures in Rotterdam in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Brussels averages at about 18°C (65°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Rotterdam this time of the year. In the summer, Rotterdam often gets more sunshine than Brussels. Rotterdam gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 186 hours of full sun.

Rotterdam usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Brussels. Rotterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Brussels in the Autumn?

Both Brussels and Rotterdam are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Rotterdam this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Brussels for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Rotterdam is generally cooler than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Rotterdam average around 11°C (51°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Rotterdam usually receives less sunshine than Brussels during autumn. Rotterdam gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 114 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Rotterdam usually receives around the same amount of rain as Brussels. Rotterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Brussels in the Winter?

Both Brussels and Rotterdam during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Rotterdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Brussels in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Brussels can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Rotterdam. Rotterdam is much colder than Brussels in the winter. The daily temperature in Rotterdam averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Brussels fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Rotterdam often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Brussels. Rotterdam gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 49 hours of full sun.

Rotterdam usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Brussels. Rotterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Brussels in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Rotterdam and Brussels. Many visitors come to Rotterdam in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Brussels for the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Rotterdam is cooler than Brussels. Typically, the spring temperatures in Rotterdam in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Brussels averages at about 10°C (49°F).

Rotterdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Brussels during spring. Rotterdam gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 147 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Rotterdam usually receives less rain than Brussels. Rotterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Brussels and Rotterdam