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

Should you visit Zurich or Rotterdam?

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 Zurich and Rotterdam. 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.

Zurich

Zurich is a historic, liberal, and beautiful city. With stunning beauty, Zurich attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and shopping. See Zurich travel costs.

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. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Rotterdam travel costs.

Zurich and Rotterdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Rotterdam?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Zurich than Rotterdam. While Rotterdam is larger than Zurich, Zurich has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zurich is more popular for its museums and attractions, music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Rotterdam is known for its big city activities. Zurich is more touristy than Rotterdam and is popular for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. It is also home to The Grossmünster. Rotterdam is popular for its modern architecture, the cube houses, and the market hall.

How is Zurich different from Rotterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Zurich 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 Zurich. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

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 Zurich or Rotterdam? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Zurich and Rotterdam offer a number of excellent restaurants to choose from.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Zurich. Many restaurants have a strong German influence, but you'll also find traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese and chocolate fondue. There are also several Michelin star restaurants in town.

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.

Is Zurich or Rotterdam Better for Nightlife?

Both Zurich and Rotterdam are excellent when it comes to partying.

Zurich offers plenty to do in the evening. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland. There are a high concentration of bars and clubs around town, or you could check out one of the badis, which are pools that also act as bars during the summer months. They're usually located by the lake.

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 Zurich or Rotterdam Better for Music?

Zurich is great for its music scene. However, Rotterdam is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Zurich draws a good crowd. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Rotterdam is not a live music destination.

Is Zurich or Rotterdam Better for its Old Town?

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

Zurich offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The city has an old town that is split into two parts on each side of the Limmat River. The historic districts are filled with churches, squares, and charming areas that are fun to explore. Walking tours are the best way to explore the old town.

Rotterdam does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Rotterdam?

Zurich 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 Zurich specifically to go shopping. Visitors often buy chocolate, watches, and jewelry in this city. You'll find brand names and luxury items that are of high quality. Each neighborhood has its own character with stores ranging from traditional to international.

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 Zurich or Rotterdam More Beautiful?

Zurich is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Rotterdam is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Zurich attracts visitors from all around. With Lake Zurich and the mountains as a backdrop, this is a truly beautiful city.

Rotterdam is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Zurich or Rotterdam Better for Families?

Both Zurich and Rotterdam are excellent family-friendly destinations.

Zurich is a very kid-friendly city. It's a surprisingly mellow city with a relaxing vibe that makes it easy to explore with kids. Popular family-friendly activities include swimming in the Limmat River, sailing on Lake Zurich, and visiting Josefwiese park, which has a large playground.

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.

Is Zurich or Rotterdam Better for Couples?

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

Zurich is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. One of the most romantic experiences you can have in town is visiting the Zurich Thermal Baths and Spa. There's an outdoor rooftop thermal pool as well as many ways that you can pamper yourselves.

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

Is Zurich or Rotterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Zurich and Rotterdam are good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Zurich. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.

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 Zurich or Rotterdam Better for Students?

Zurich 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.

Zurich is a very popular place to visit for students. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

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

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

Both Zurich and Rotterdam offer excellent public transit options.

Zurich has some very good public transit options. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

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

Is Zurich or Rotterdam a more walkable city?

Zurich and Rotterdam both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Zurich is a very walkable city. There are paths that lead along the rivers and the lake connecting the old town areas to other parts of the city.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Rotterdam or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Rotterdam?

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

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

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

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

One day in Zurich or Rotterdam?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Zurich. 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.

Rotterdam is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Zurich or Rotterdam?

You'll find live music and food around the liberal destination of Zurich. 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.

Rotterdam is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Zurich or Rotterdam?

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful city of Zurich. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rotterdam. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Zurich or Rotterdam?

Zurich 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the modern big city of Rotterdam. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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 Zurich and Rotterdam, we can see that Zurich 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 Zurich would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Zurich 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 Zurich Expensive? and Is Rotterdam Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Rotterdam?

Rotterdam has a larger population, and is about 75% larger than the population of Zurich. When comparing the sizes of Zurich 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 Zurich 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 Zurich or Rotterdam in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Zurich is a little warmer than Rotterdam. Typically, the summer temperatures in Zurich in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Rotterdam averages at about 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 Zurich this time of the year. In the summer, Zurich often gets more sunshine than Rotterdam. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rotterdam receives 202 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in July than Rotterdam. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Rotterdam in the Autumn?

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

In October, Zurich is generally a little warmer than Rotterdam. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 13°C (56°F), and Rotterdam fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Zurich usually receives more sunshine than Rotterdam during autumn. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Rotterdam receives 105 hours of full sun in the autumn.

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

Should I visit Zurich or Rotterdam in the Winter?

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

Rotterdam can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Zurich. Zurich is a little warmer than Rotterdam in the winter. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Rotterdam fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Zurich often gets more sunshine than Rotterdam. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rotterdam receives 47 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in January than Rotterdam. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Rotterdam in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Zurich is much warmer than Rotterdam. Typically, the spring temperatures in Zurich in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Rotterdam averages at about 8°C (46°F).

Zurich usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Rotterdam during spring. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Rotterdam receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Zurich usually receives more rain than Rotterdam. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Rotterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Rotterdam and Zurich