A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Antwerp vs. Auxerre for Attractions, Nightlife, Food, and Families

Should you visit Antwerp or Auxerre?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Antwerp and Auxerre can help you decide which place is right for you.

Antwerp

Antwerp is a genuine, cultural, and historical port city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Auxerre

Auxerre is a under-rated, undiscovered, and authentic town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. And you can't forget about the food and museums.

Antwerp and Auxerre: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Antwerp or Auxerre?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Antwerp. Although Antwerp and Auxerre are both popular with visitors, Antwerp has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Antwerp is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Auxerre is known for its small town charm. Antwerp is popular for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town. It is also home to Antwerpen-Centraal. Auxerre is popular for its food, wine, and art history.

How is Antwerp different from Auxerre?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Antwerp
Auxerre

Antwerp is great for its historical sights. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

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.

Auxerre is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Although the town is often overlooked by tourists, there are many nice cathedrals and churches around town.


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

Antwerp
Auxerre

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

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Antwerp. 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!

Auxerre is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The town is a the heart of the wine industry, so you'll find many great restaurants where you can enjoy local food and wine.

Is Antwerp or Auxerre Better for Nightlife?

Antwerp
Auxerre

Antwerp is great for its evening party scene. However, Auxerre is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Antwerp for the nightlife scene. 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.

Most people don't head to Auxerre specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It has a quiet nightlife with some nice bars and pubs.

Is Antwerp or Auxerre Better for its Old Town?

Antwerp
Auxerre

Antwerp is great for its historic old town charm. However, Auxerre does not have a historic old town.

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.

Auxerre does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Antwerp or Auxerre?

Antwerp
Auxerre

Antwerp is an amazing port city to visit for its shopping areas. However, Auxerre is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many people travel to Antwerp specifically to go shopping. 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.

Auxerre is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Antwerp or Auxerre Better for Families?

Antwerp
Auxerre

You'll find good kid-friendly activities in either Antwerp or Auxerre.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Antwerp. 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.

Auxerre offers lots of family activities. There's the Zoo de La Fleche and the Aquarium de Touraine. You can also wander through Musee de l'Avallon or des Plantes.

Is Antwerp or Auxerre Better for Couples?

Antwerp
Auxerre

Both Antwerp and Auxerre are good destinations to visit as a couple.

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.

Auxerre is a good port city for couples to visit. There are many great eateries as well nice architecture and, of course, excellent wine.


Is Antwerp or Auxerre Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antwerp
Auxerre

Antwerp is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Auxerre is not a good destination for backpackers.

Antwerp is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Auxerre is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a popular stop off on the backpacker circuit, but you will find some affordable accommodation options.

Is Antwerp or Auxerre Better for Students?

Antwerp
Auxerre

Antwerp is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Auxerre is not popular with students.

Antwerp is very popular with students. 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.

Auxerre is not popular with students.

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

Antwerp
Auxerre

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Antwerp and Auxerre.

You'll find some public transit in Antwerp, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. 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.

While Auxerre offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses around town.


Is Antwerp or Auxerre a more walkable city?

Antwerp
Auxerre

Antwerp is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

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

Auxerre is somewhat walkable. The center is walkable but it is a bit more difficult to navigate than some nearby towns.

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

Should I spend more time in Auxerre or Antwerp?

How long in Antwerp or Auxerre?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Antwerp or Auxerre to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Antwerp than Auxerre because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Antwerp, and 1-2 days is enough time in Auxerre.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Antwerp or Auxerre? Ideal Length of Stay
    Antwerp 1-3 
    Auxerre 1-2

One day in Antwerp or Auxerre?

In Antwerp, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. This port city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Auxerre, you'll find food and museums. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Antwerp or Auxerre?

In Antwerp, 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. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Antwerp has to offer.

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


Five days in Antwerp or Auxerre?

Antwerp 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.

Auxerre is a great place to explore. 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.

A week in Antwerp or Auxerre?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Antwerp. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Antwerp. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Auxerre. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Auxerre. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Belgium, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Brussels, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, and The Best 2-Week Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Auxerre or Antwerp?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Antwerp is €123, while the average daily cost in Auxerre is €113. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Antwerp and Auxerre in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Antwerp 71
    Auxerre 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Antwerp 142
    Auxerre 102
Compare Hotels in Antwerp and Auxerre

Looking for a hotel in Antwerp or Auxerre? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Antwerp


Hotels in Auxerre


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Antwerp Hotel Prices and Auxerre Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Antwerp 12
    Auxerre 46

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Antwerp

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Antwerp:

  • Round Trip Private Transfer Brussels Airport BRU to Antwerp City by Luxury Car: $274
  • Antwerp Shuttle Transfer <-> Schipol Airport Amsterdam (1 to 8 Places): $175
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Antwerp to Brussels By luxury car: $163
  • Private Transfer from Antwerp to Bruges or ZeeBrugge By Luxury car: $141
  • Private Departure Transfer from Antwerp to Brussels By luxury car: $86
  • Transfer from Antwerp Airport ANR to Antwerp by Luxury Car or Van: $73
  • Arrival Private Transfer Antwerp Airport ANR to Antwerp by Sedan: $68

Is it cheaper to fly into Antwerp or Auxerre?

Prices for flights to both Auxerre and Antwerp change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Antwerp 39
    Auxerre 34

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Antwerp

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Antwerp.

  • 2-Hour Food Tour with 5 Tastings: $71

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Antwerp 8.21
    Auxerre 18

Tours and Activities in Antwerp

Here are a few actual costs in Antwerp for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour in Antwerp : $229
  • 3-Hour Antwerp Bike Tour: $35
  • 3-Hour Private Tour in Antwerp: $49
  • Antwerp : Must-See Attractions Walking Tour: $80
  • Antwerp : Private Custom Walking Tour with Local Guide: $56
  • Antwerp Bike Tours: $35
  • Antwerp In App Audio Tour : Belgian Port City (EN, DU): $7.59
  • Antwerp Private Tour From Brussels: $425
  • Antwerp Private Walking Tour: $218
  • Antwerp Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $245
  • Antwerp Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.09
  • Antwerp Shore Excursion and Bruges Private City Tour including Chocolate Tasting: $183

Tours and Activities in Auxerre

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Auxerre.

  • Chocolate Tour with Tasting: $16
  • e-Mehari Tour et dégustation Chablis Clotilde Davenne: $92
  • Touristic highlights of Auxerre a Private half day tour (4 Hours) with a local: $112

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Antwerp 18
    Auxerre 6.14

Sample the Local Flavors in Antwerp

Also in Antwerp, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Antwerp Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12
  • City Brewery De Koninck Interactive Tour: $17
  • Tour and Tasting if alcoholic Ginger-beer in a gluten-free nano-brewery: $62
  • Antwerp Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $65
  • Pub Crawl in the Historical City: $96

Sample the Local Flavors in Auxerre

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Auxerre:

  • From Dutch Barge Full-Day Cruise with Wine Tasting: $85
  • Chablis & Northern Burgundy Wine Tour: $273


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


Which is Bigger, Antwerp or Auxerre?

Antwerp has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Auxerre. When comparing the sizes of Antwerp and Auxerre, 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 Antwerp or Auxerre?

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 Antwerp or Auxerre in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Antwerp is around the same temperature as Auxerre. Typically, the summer temperatures in Antwerp in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Auxerre averages at about 19°C (66°F).

In Auxerre, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Antwerp. In the summer, Antwerp often gets less sunshine than Auxerre. Antwerp gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auxerre receives 255 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets more rain in July than Auxerre. Antwerp gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Antwerp 17°C (63°F) 
    Auxerre 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Antwerp or Auxerre in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Antwerp and Auxerre. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Antwerp this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Auxerre for the small town atmosphere.

In October, Antwerp is generally around the same temperature as Auxerre. Daily temperatures in Antwerp average around 12°C (54°F), and Auxerre fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Antwerp usually receives less sunshine than Auxerre during autumn. Antwerp gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Auxerre receives 126 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Antwerp usually receives more rain than Auxerre. Antwerp gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Antwerp 12°C (54°F) 
    Auxerre 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Antwerp or Auxerre in the Winter?

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

Auxerre can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Antwerp. Antwerp is around the same temperature as Auxerre in the winter. The daily temperature in Antwerp averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Auxerre fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Antwerp often gets less sunshine than Auxerre. Antwerp gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auxerre receives 53 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Auxerre. Antwerp gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Antwerp 3°C (38°F) 
    Auxerre 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Antwerp or Auxerre in the Spring?

Both Auxerre and Antwerp are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Antwerp in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Auxerre for the small town charm during these months.

In the spring, Antwerp is cooler than Auxerre. Typically, the spring temperatures in Antwerp in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Auxerre averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Antwerp usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Auxerre during spring. Antwerp gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Auxerre receives 167 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Antwerp usually receives less rain than Auxerre. Antwerp gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Antwerp 8°C (47°F) 
    Auxerre 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Auxerre and Antwerp

Antwerp Auxerre
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 3°C (37°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 5°C (41°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 18°C (64°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 19°C (66°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 19°C (66°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 17°C (63°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 75 mm (2.9 in) 7°C (45°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)