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

Should you visit Rotterdam or Florence?

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 Florence. 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 trendy, high energy, and modern port city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Rotterdam travel costs.

Florence

Florence is a iconic, alluring, and historical city. Many visitors also come to Florence because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Florence travel costs.

Rotterdam and Florence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rotterdam or Florence?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Florence than Rotterdam. While Rotterdam is larger than Florence, Florence has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Florence is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Rotterdam is known for its nightlife and big city activities. Florence is more touristy than Rotterdam and is known for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. It is also home to The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore). Rotterdam is popular for its modern architecture, the cube houses, and the market hall.

How is Rotterdam different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Florence 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 Florence?

Florence is an amazing city 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, Florence has many famous sights for visitors. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

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 Florence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Florence is an amazing city to visit 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.

Eat your way through Florence, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean and cabbage soup. You'll also find all of your favorite Italian staples and many great family-owned trattorie.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Rotterdam makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Is Rotterdam or Florence Better for Nightlife?

Rotterdam is a great port city for nightlife and partying. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Rotterdam has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Florence. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Is Rotterdam or Florence Better for its Old Town?

Florence is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Rotterdam does not have a historic old town.

Florence offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

Rotterdam does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Rotterdam or Florence?

If you're looking to go shopping, Rotterdam and Florence both offer plenty of great spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Rotterdam. 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.

Florence is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

Is Rotterdam or Florence More Beautiful?

Florence is an amazing city to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Rotterdam is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Florence because of it's amazing beauty. The city's beautiful architecture and impressive gardens make it among the most beautiful cities in the world.

Rotterdam is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Rotterdam or Florence Better for Families?

Rotterdam is a great port city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Florence is a family-friendly place to visit. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is Rotterdam or Florence Better for Couples?

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

Florence is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

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

Is Rotterdam or Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Florence is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Florence, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

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 Florence Better for Students?

Florence is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for students.

Florence is a very popular place to visit for students. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

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

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

Rotterdam is a great port city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Public transit in Rotterdam can get you to some places easily. There are trams, buses, metros, and even a ferry.

Florence has a few public transit options. The city has a comprehensive bus system.

Is Rotterdam or Florence a more walkable city?

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

Florence is a very easy city to get around on foot. Most people explore the city on foot and the striking beauty and and pedestrian-friendly areas make it a great place to wander. During peak seasons, the streets can get crowded.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Florence or Rotterdam?

How long in Rotterdam or Florence?

Both Rotterdam and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Florence than in Rotterdam. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Rotterdam, and 2-7 days is enough time in Florence.

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

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

One day in Rotterdam or Florence?

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 Florence. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

A weekend in Rotterdam or Florence?

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 alluring destination of Florence. 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 Florence?

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 iconic city of Florence. 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. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Rotterdam or Florence?

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.

Florence is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Florence, one week is sufficent for most. 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 Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Rotterdam or Florence?

Rotterdam has a larger population, and is about 61% larger than the population of Florence. When comparing the sizes of Rotterdam and Florence, 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 Florence?

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 Rotterdam or Florence in the Summer?

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

In July, Rotterdam is generally cooler than Florence. Daily temperatures in Rotterdam average around 17°C (62°F), and Florence fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

It's quite sunny in Florence. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Rotterdam. Rotterdam usually receives less sunshine than Florence during summer. Rotterdam gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Rotterdam usually receives more rain than Florence. Rotterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Florence in the Autumn?

Both Florence and Rotterdam during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Rotterdam for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Florence because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Rotterdam is much colder than Florence in the autumn. The daily temperature in Rotterdam averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Florence fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Rotterdam often gets less sunshine than Florence. Rotterdam gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun.

Rotterdam usually gets less rain in October than Florence. Rotterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Florence in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Rotterdam and Florence. The winter months attract visitors to Rotterdam because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Florence this time of year.

The weather in Rotterdam can be very cold. In the winter, Rotterdam is much colder than Florence. Typically, the winter temperatures in Rotterdam in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Florence averages at about 7°C (45°F).

Rotterdam usually receives less sunshine than Florence during winter. Rotterdam gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Rotterdam usually receives around the same amount of rain as Florence. Rotterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Florence in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Rotterdam as well as Florence. The activities around the city are the main draw to Rotterdam this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Florence for the natural beauty.

In April, Rotterdam is generally much colder than Florence. Daily temperatures in Rotterdam average around 8°C (46°F), and Florence fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In the spring, Rotterdam often gets less sunshine than Florence. Rotterdam gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun.

Rotterdam usually gets less rain in April than Florence. Rotterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Florence and Rotterdam