A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Aberdeen vs. Antwerp for Attractions, Nightlife, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Aberdeen or Antwerp?

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

Should I visit Aberdeen or Antwerp? 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.

Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a architectural, authentic, and historic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Antwerp

Antwerp is a cultural, historical, and youthful port city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Aberdeen and Antwerp: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Aberdeen or Antwerp?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Antwerp than Aberdeen. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Aberdeen is more touristy than Antwerp and is known for its longstanding maritime history and its many cultural sights and activities. Antwerp is famous for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town. It is also well known for Antwerpen-Centraal.

How is Aberdeen different from Antwerp?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Aberdeen or Antwerp?

Both Aberdeen and Antwerp have great landmarks and museums for visitors.

Aberdeen offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city's long running history means that there are plenty of sights and museums worth exploring. Highlights include St. Machar's Cathedral, the University and King's College of Aberdeen, Brig o'Balgownie, and the Tolbooth Museum.

Many visitors head to Antwerp specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has a number of cathedrals, museums, and art galleries that are fun to explore. The history and culture of the town is best experienced by wandering the streets and soaking up the architecture.

Is the Food Better in Aberdeen or Antwerp? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Aberdeen and Antwerp can be an enjoyable experience.

Aberdeen offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Everything from brunch bistros to fine dining are available in this city. You can enjoy local specialties or international options at any of the unique restaurants around town.

Antwerp has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. People with a sweet tooth will enjoy the chocolates and biscuits that make this city famous. You'll also find plenty of fries and casual dining options to choose from. Local favorites include mussels and fish and chips, and of course, you must try the beer!

Is Aberdeen or Antwerp Better for Nightlife?

Antwerp is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Antwerp offers plenty to do in the evening. With its large student population and young vibe, you'll find an active nightlife scene around town. Many of the the clubs and bars are concentrated in the docklands, but you'll also find places to hang out everywhere around town.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Aberdeen. The nightlife scene is diverse with whisky dens, local pubs, and even trendy nightclubs to choose from.

Is Aberdeen or Antwerp Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the great old towns in both Aberdeen and Antwerp.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Aberdeen. This city's old town is a hidden gem in Scotland. The cobblestone streets and long history make for a fascinating place to explore.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Antwerp. The old city has a long running history and many unique spots to explore. At the heart of the old town is Grote Markt, which is surrounded by beautiful buildings and cobblestone streets. There are a diversity of restaurants including local cuisines, Italian restaurants, and a number of different ethnic food. You'll also find local chocolate shops, waffle vendors, and ice cream.

Is the Shopping Better in Aberdeen or Antwerp?

Antwerp is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Antwerp is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has become known for its fashion scene. The main shopping street is Meir, which is where you'll find a variety of European fashion chains. It's also fun to buy chocolates, art, or other souvenirs around town. You'll find both locals and tourists perusing the main shopping areas around town.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Aberdeen. A mix of modern shopping centers, antique vendors, and local boutiques make for an interesting shopping scene. For some of the city's best shopping head to Union Square Shopping Centre, the Trinity Centre, or Bon Accord Aberdeen.

Is Aberdeen or Antwerp Better for Families?

Aberdeen is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Aberdeen is a very kid-friendly city. Explore the city's history or wander through one of the many museums. Some of the best museums for kids include the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, Little Treasures Toy Museum, the Aberdeen Science Center, and the Gordon Highlanders Museum. Adrenaline seekers will enjoy rock climbing and ropes courses at Transition Extreme or ziplining at Go Ape Crathes Castle. Also nearby is horseback riding and Codona’s Amusement Park.

Antwerp offers lots of family activities. Favorite kid-friendly activities around town include taking a ride on the Ferris Wheel, going to the local zoo, or exploring the indoor play area Plopsa Station. Kids will also enjoy exploring the underground canals or taking a boat ride. Chocolate lovers will have fun checking out the many chocolate shops around town.

Is Aberdeen or Antwerp Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Aberdeen and Antwerp make for a nice place to visit.

Aberdeen is a nice destination for couples. There are many of the standard activities for couples such as interesting restaurants, theaters, and fun concerts.

Antwerp makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has a wonderful café culture with great restaurants and beautiful neighborhoods to explore. There are many great restaurants as well as plenty of shopping opportunities.

Is Aberdeen or Antwerp Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antwerp is a popular place for backpackers. However, Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Antwerp. With a handful of hostels and a variety of free activities, this is an affordable place to visit. It's often overlooked by backpackers so those that visit will be rewarded. It has a vibe of authenticity which is great for backpacker's who are a bit jaded from the tourism scene.

Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Aberdeen or Antwerp Better for Students?

Antwerp is a well-known place for students. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Antwerp is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. There's a good student culture and a lot of activities that give the city a fun and youthful vibe. It's a relatively big city with a lot of transportation connections, so it makes a great base for exploring other areas.

Plenty of students visit Aberdeen. The city is a nice affordable option for students who want to study at the University of Aberdeen.

Is Aberdeen or Antwerp Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Aberdeen and Antwerp offer nice public transit options.

Aberdeen has a few public transit options. There are public buses through town and it's possible to pick up a Grasshopper ticket that lets you ride on most of the bus companies.

Antwerp has some public transit options. There are both tram and bus lines around town. The city also has a large and impressive train station with many connections, making it a good base for exploring other areas.

Is Aberdeen or Antwerp a more walkable city?

Aberdeen and Antwerp both are great when exploring on foot.

Aberdeen is very walkable. It's easy to walk to most of the city's attractions.

Antwerp is a very walkable city. The old town can be comfortably explored on foot, particularly the area around Grote Markt.

For even more information, also check out Is Aberdeen Worth Visiting? and Is Antwerp Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Antwerp or Aberdeen?

How long in Aberdeen or Antwerp?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Aberdeen and Antwerp. In our opinion, Antwerp has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Antwerp than Aberdeen. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Aberdeen, and 1-3 days is enough time in Antwerp.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Antwerp than Aberdeen 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 Antwerp.

One day in Aberdeen or Antwerp?

In Aberdeen, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The port city of Antwerp 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 Aberdeen or Antwerp?

In Aberdeen, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Aberdeen has to offer.

Antwerp 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Antwerp, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Aberdeen or Antwerp?

Aberdeen is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Antwerp is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. 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 Aberdeen or Antwerp?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aberdeen. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Aberdeen. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Antwerp is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. 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 port city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to Belgium, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Belgium.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Aberdeen and Antwerp, we can see that Aberdeen is more expensive. And not only is Antwerp much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Antwerp would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Antwerp 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 Aberdeen would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Aberdeen than you might in Antwerp.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Aberdeen Expensive? and Is Antwerp Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Aberdeen or Antwerp?

Antwerp has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Aberdeen. When comparing the sizes of Aberdeen and Antwerp, 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 Aberdeen or Antwerp?

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 Aberdeen or Antwerp in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Aberdeen and Antwerp. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Aberdeen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Antwerp for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Aberdeen is cooler than Antwerp. Typically, the summer temperatures in Aberdeen in July average around 14°C (58°F), and Antwerp averages at about 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Antwerp this time of the year. Aberdeen usually receives less sunshine than Antwerp during summer. Aberdeen gets 157 hours of sunny skies, while Antwerp receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Aberdeen usually receives less rain than Antwerp. Aberdeen gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Aberdeen or Antwerp in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Aberdeen as well as Antwerp. Many travelers come to Aberdeen for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Antwerp in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Aberdeen is generally cooler than Antwerp. Daily temperatures in Aberdeen average around 9°C (49°F), and Antwerp fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Aberdeen often gets less sunshine than Antwerp. Aberdeen gets 93 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antwerp receives 105 hours of full sun.

Aberdeen usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Antwerp. Aberdeen gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Aberdeen or Antwerp in the Winter?

Both Antwerp and Aberdeen are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Aberdeen in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Antwerp for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Antwerp can be very cold during winter. Aberdeen can get quite cold in the winter. Aberdeen is around the same temperature as Antwerp in the winter. The daily temperature in Aberdeen averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Antwerp fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Aberdeen usually receives more sunshine than Antwerp during winter. Aberdeen gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Antwerp receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Aberdeen usually receives more rain than Antwerp. Aberdeen gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Aberdeen or Antwerp in the Spring?

Both Antwerp and Aberdeen during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Aberdeen for the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Antwerp because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Aberdeen is cooler than Antwerp. Typically, the spring temperatures in Aberdeen in April average around 7°C (44°F), and Antwerp averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the spring, Aberdeen often gets less sunshine than Antwerp. Aberdeen gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antwerp receives 158 hours of full sun.

Aberdeen usually gets more rain in April than Antwerp. Aberdeen gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Antwerp and Aberdeen