Should I Visit Brussels or Bruges? Which is Better for Old Town, Attractions, Food, and Families? Which is Cheaper? Which is More Expensive? | Budget Your Trip (2024)

Should you visit Brussels or Bruges?

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 Brussels and Bruges. 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.

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.

Bruges

Bruges is a historic, cultural, and beautiful city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Brussels and Bruges: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brussels or Bruges?

You'll generally find more things to do in Brussels than Bruges. Brussels is bigger than Bruges, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Brussels is better known for its shopping and big city activities, while Bruges is more popular for its historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Bruges is more touristy than Brussels and is popular for its scenic old town, charming streets, local chocolate, and unique Christmas market. Brussels is well known for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. Also, Brussels is famous for La Grand Place (Grote Markt).

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Brussels different from Bruges?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Brussels and Bruges have excellent landmarks and museums for visitors.

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.

Bruges offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is filled with charming hidden corners as well as notable landmarks. The main square is Bruges' Markt which is where you'll find the the Belfry Tower. Other must-see sights include the Historium, Groeninge Museum, the Town Hall, and Brugse Vrije Museum.

Is the Food Better in Brussels or Bruges? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at excellent restaurants in both Brussels and Bruges.

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).

Bruges has a huge number of terrific restaurants. From its world class breweries to its famous chocolate shops, there is plenty to eat and drink around town. In the old town prices can be a bit high, but the dishes and atmosphere are great. Popular local dishes include Belgian waffles, fries, mussels, and beef stew.

Is Brussels or Bruges Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Brussels and Bruges.

Brussels has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Bruges has a few options to choose from. It's famous for its beer and breweries, so you'll find a number of places to gather in the evening. There is a lack of nightclubs, so if dancing and partying hard is your style, then this may not be your place. The vibes are generally chill and relaxed at night. Most places are concentrated around old town or near Kuipersstraat or Zilverstraat.

Is Brussels or Bruges Better for its Old Town?

Bruges is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

The old town of Bruges is one of the most recognized in the world. The old town is the main attraction, with its quaint cobblestone streets and beautiful brick architecture.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Bruges?

Brussels is very popular for its shopping areas. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice 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.

Bruges is a great destination for shopping. The city offers plenty of shopping, whether you're looking for souvenirs, trendy European brands, or local items. It's more geared towards tourists than locals, and you want find the same diversity that you get in some of the larger nearby cities, but you'll find unique lace items and other local goods in the old town. The streets around Markt Square, Steenstraat, Geld Monstraat, and Jakobstraat are the main shopping areas.

Is Brussels or Bruges Better for Families?

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

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Brussels. 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.

Bruges is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy sampling the unique chocolate around town, eating their fill of waffles, and getting their energy out in the park or at a local playground. There are also canal boat tours and horse drawn carriage rides that are fun for the whole family.

Is Brussels or Bruges Better for Couples?

Brussels and Bruges both excellent destinations for a couple.

Couples visit Brussels frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Bruges is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. This romantic city has amazing restaurants, charming streets, and impressive architecture. Couples will enjoy exploring the canals by boat or taking a horse drawn carriage ride through the old town. There are also a number of cute bed and breakfasts where you can stay.

Is Brussels or Bruges Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels and Bruges are excellent places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Many backpackers visit Bruges. There are a few good hostels around town. The city sees its share of tourists, but many arrive as part of tours or river boat cruises. If you stay in a hostel, you shouldn't have trouble meeting other young travelers though. There are also plenty of well known breweries where you can gather with friends.

Is Brussels or Bruges Better for Students?

Brussels is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Bruges is not popular with students.

Many students visit Brussels. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.

Bruges is not popular with students.

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

Brussels is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Brussels has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

Bruges has a few public transit options. There is a bus system that connects the train station to the old town. Otherwise, the city is best explored on foot.

Is Brussels or Bruges a more walkable city?

Bruges is renowned for its walkability. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Bruges on foot is easy. The train station is a short walk from the old town but the city is very walkable and best explored on foot.

Brussels is a very walkable city. 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 Brussels Worth Visiting? and Is Bruges Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bruges or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Bruges?

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

Families should spend more time in Brussels than Bruges. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Brussels than Bruges 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 Brussels or Bruges?

Brussels is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

The beautiful city of Bruges offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Brussels or Bruges?

Brussels is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

Five days in Brussels or Bruges?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brussels. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Bruges 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.

A week in Brussels or Bruges?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the colorful big city of Brussels. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Bruges is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, The Best Tours for Seniors to Belgium, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Brussels.

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

Which is Bigger, Brussels or Bruges?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Bruges. When comparing the sizes of Brussels and Bruges, 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 Brussels or Bruges?

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 Brussels or Bruges in the Summer?

Both Bruges and Brussels during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Brussels because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bruges this time of year.

In July, Brussels is generally around the same temperature as Bruges. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 18°C (65°F), and Bruges fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In Bruges, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Bruges. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bruges receives 202 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in July than Bruges. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Bruges receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Bruges in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Bruges. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Brussels this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bruges for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Brussels is around the same temperature as Bruges in the autumn. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Bruges fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

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

In October, Brussels usually receives less rain than Bruges. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bruges receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Brussels or Bruges in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Brussels as well as Bruges. Many travelers come to Brussels for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Bruges in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Bruges can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Brussels. In the winter, Brussels is around the same temperature as Bruges. Typically, the winter temperatures in Brussels in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Bruges averages at about 3°C (38°F).

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

Brussels usually gets more rain in January than Bruges. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bruges receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Bruges in the Spring?

Both Bruges and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Brussels in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Bruges for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Brussels is generally a little warmer than Bruges. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 10°C (49°F), and Bruges fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

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

In April, Brussels usually receives more rain than Bruges. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bruges receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bruges and Brussels