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

Should you visit Amsterdam or Brussels?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Amsterdam or Brussels, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a laid-back, scenic, and historic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Brussels

Brussels is a colorful, multicultural, and historic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Amsterdam and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Brussels?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Amsterdam than Brussels. While Brussels is larger than Amsterdam, Amsterdam has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Amsterdam is very popular for its nightlife, music, and impressive beauty, while Brussels attracts visitors for its food and shopping. Amsterdam is more touristy than Brussels and is known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Rijksmuseum. Brussels is famous for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles.

How is Amsterdam different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the great sights and museums in both Amsterdam and Brussels.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Amsterdam can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a number of sights and museums including the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Royal Palace. The world renowned Rijksmuseum is a must see for any art enthusiast. There are also many smaller, lesser known museums that are well worth a visit.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

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

Brussels is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Brussels. 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).

Amsterdam may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Food is expensive in this city, particularly in the touristy areas. There are some markets that sell great local items and the dessert cafes are awesome!

Is Amsterdam or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is renowned for nightlife. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Amsterdam is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city has some of the best nightlife in Europe. There are plenty of bars, dance clubs, and other activities that you can enjoy throughout the night.

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 Amsterdam or Brussels Better for Music?

Amsterdam is renowned for live music. However, Brussels is not a live music destination.

Amsterdam is a world class music destination. The city attracts its share of world renowned DJs and musicians. Popular music venues include Paradiso, De Melkweg, and Chicago Social Club.

Brussels is not a live music destination.

Is Amsterdam or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam and Brussels both have great historical old towns that attract visitors.

Many visitors go to Amsterdam to see the historical old town. The old city center is one of the best preserved in Europe. It's enclosed by canals and has many historic churches, plazas, and buildings.

Brussels is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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 Amsterdam or Brussels?

Brussels is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Amsterdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Brussels make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Amsterdam. For the best shopping in town, head to the Nine Streets area in the historic district and the two main shopping streets of The Kalverstraat and Leidsestraat.

Is Amsterdam or Brussels Better for Families?

Brussels is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Brussels is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

For families, Amsterdam is not always the best place to visit. The city does it's share of partying, and there are some areas, like the red light district, that aren't exactly kid-friendly, but there are some nice parks, playgrounds, and the impressive NEMO Science Museum that you can explore.

Is Amsterdam or Brussels Better for Couples?

Amsterdam and Brussels are both great to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Amsterdam frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. For many, a visit to this city is all about the party, but for couples who enjoy history, architecture, or boat rides along the scenic canals, the city also makes a great getaway. It's also fun to stay in a houseboat and have a unique experience.

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.

Is Amsterdam or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is renowned for backpackers. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Amsterdam is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. With it's party-hard personality and countless low price hostels, this city attracts its share of backpackers. Do note that many of the hostels aren't focused on quality, so make sure you understand what you're paying for. It may be worth booking a slightly more expensive room in a hotel.

Many 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.

Is Amsterdam or Brussels Better for Students?

Brussels is well known for students. However, Amsterdam is not popular with students.

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

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Amsterdam and Brussels.

Visitors in Amsterdam can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The city has metros, trams, buses, and ferries that help you get around. Since this is the Netherlands, getting around by bike is very popular.

Brussels has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

Is Amsterdam or Brussels a more walkable city?

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

Getting around Amsterdam on foot is easy. The historic parts of the city are very walkable and much of the city is 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 Amsterdam Worth Visiting? and Is Brussels Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Brussels?

In either Amsterdam or Brussels, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Amsterdam than Brussels because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Amsterdam, and 1-5 days is enough time in Brussels.

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

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

One day in Amsterdam or Brussels?

Amsterdam is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. 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 Amsterdam or Brussels?

Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cosmopolitan 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 Amsterdam or Brussels?

Amsterdam is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Amsterdam, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find nightlife and food around the authentic 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 Amsterdam or Brussels?

Amsterdam is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Amsterdam has to offer. This 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 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam, The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Brussels?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 37% larger than the population of Amsterdam. When comparing the sizes of Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam or Brussels?

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 Amsterdam or Brussels in the Summer?

Both Brussels and Amsterdam are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Amsterdam for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Brussels in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Amsterdam is generally around the same temperature as Brussels. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 17°C (62°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Amsterdam. Amsterdam usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during summer. Amsterdam gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 186 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Amsterdam usually receives around the same amount of rain as Brussels. Amsterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Brussels in the Autumn?

Both Brussels and Amsterdam during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Amsterdam in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Brussels for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

Amsterdam is cooler than Brussels in the autumn. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Brussels fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Brussels. Amsterdam gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 114 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Brussels. Amsterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Brussels in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Amsterdam and Brussels. Most visitors come to Amsterdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Brussels because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Brussels can be very cold. Amsterdam can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Amsterdam is much colder than Brussels. Typically, the winter temperatures in Amsterdam in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Brussels averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Amsterdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Brussels during winter. Amsterdam gets 46 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Amsterdam usually receives around the same amount of rain as Brussels. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Brussels in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Amsterdam as well as Brussels. The spring months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Brussels this time of year.

In April, Amsterdam is generally cooler than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 8°C (46°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the spring, Amsterdam often gets more sunshine than Brussels. Amsterdam gets 166 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 147 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets less rain in April than Brussels. Amsterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Brussels and Amsterdam