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

Should you visit Antwerp or Boston?

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 Boston can help you decide which place is right for you.

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.

Boston

Boston is a proud, loyal, and historic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Antwerp and Boston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antwerp or Boston?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Boston than Antwerp. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Boston is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, music, beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Antwerp attracts visitors for its shopping. Boston is more touristy than Antwerp and is known for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also well known for The Freedom Trail. Antwerp is famous for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town.

How is Antwerp different from Boston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Boston 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 Boston?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Boston are among the most recognizable in the world. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Antwerp can be an interesting and educational experience. 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 Antwerp or Boston Better for Theater?

Boston is well known for its theatre productions. However, Antwerp is not a theatre destination.

Boston has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Antwerp is not a theatre destination.

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

Boston is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Boston. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

Antwerp is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 Antwerp or Boston Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Antwerp and Boston.

Antwerp is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Many people head to Boston for the nightlife scene. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

Is Antwerp or Boston Better for Music?

Boston is very good for its live music scene. However, Antwerp is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Boston. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Antwerp is not a live music destination.

Is Antwerp or Boston Better for Beaches?

Boston is a city with a few options for the beache. However, Antwerp is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Boston. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Antwerp is not a beach destination.

Is Antwerp or Boston Better for its Old Town?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its old town. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

With a famous historical old-town, Boston offers plenty to see. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

Many visitors go to Antwerp to see the historical old town. 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 Antwerp or Boston?

Antwerp is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Boston 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 Boston. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Is Antwerp or Boston Better for Christmas?

Boston is well known for its Christmas activities. However, Antwerp does not offer Christmas activities.

Visitors come from all around to experience the Christmas activities in Boston. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Antwerp does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Antwerp or Boston Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is well known for its Christmas markets. However, Antwerp does not offer Christmas markets.

Boston has a large number of Christmas markets. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Antwerp does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Antwerp or Boston Better for Families?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Boston is one of the most popular family destinations. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

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 Antwerp or Boston Better for Couples?

Both Antwerp and Boston are nice 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.

Boston is a good port city for couples to visit. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Is Antwerp or Boston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antwerp and Boston are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Is Antwerp or Boston Better for Students?

Boston is an unbeatable place for students. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over the world to visit Boston. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

Antwerp is a great port city to visit as a student. 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.

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

Boston is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Boston can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

While Antwerp offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. 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 Antwerp or Boston a more walkable city?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Boston on foot is easy. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Boston or Antwerp?

How long in Antwerp or Boston?

In either Antwerp or Boston, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Boston than Antwerp because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Antwerp, and 3-5 days is enough time in Boston.

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

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

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

One day in Antwerp or Boston?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Antwerp. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Because Boston is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Antwerp or Boston?

Antwerp 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.

Because Boston is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Antwerp or Boston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Antwerp. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Boston is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Boston has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Antwerp or Boston?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Antwerp. This port 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.

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

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 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Antwerp and Boston, we can see that Boston is more expensive. And not only is Antwerp much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Antwerp is in Europe and Boston is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Boston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Boston 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 Antwerp Expensive? and Is Boston Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Antwerp or Boston?

Boston has a larger population, and is about 28% larger than the population of Antwerp. When comparing the sizes of Antwerp and Boston, 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 Boston?

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 Antwerp or Boston in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Antwerp and Boston. Many visitors come to Antwerp in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Boston for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Antwerp is generally cooler than Boston. Daily temperatures in Antwerp average around 17°C (63°F), and Boston fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Boston this time of the year. In Antwerp, it's very sunny this time of the year. Antwerp usually receives less sunshine than Boston during summer. Antwerp gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 304 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Antwerp usually receives less rain than Boston. Antwerp gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Boston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Antwerp or Boston in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Antwerp as well as Boston. Most visitors come to Antwerp for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Boston because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In the autumn, Antwerp often gets less sunshine than Boston. Antwerp gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 194 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets less rain in October than Boston. Antwerp gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antwerp or Boston in the Winter?

Both Boston and Antwerp are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Antwerp because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Boston this time of year.

It's quite cold in Boston in the winter. The weather in Antwerp can be very cold. In the winter, Antwerp is much warmer than Boston. Typically, the winter temperatures in Antwerp in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Boston averages at about 29°F (-2°C).

Antwerp usually receives less sunshine than Boston during winter. Antwerp gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Antwerp usually receives less rain than Boston. Antwerp gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Antwerp or Boston in the Spring?

Both Boston and Antwerp during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city are the main draw to Antwerp this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Boston for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Antwerp is generally around the same temperature as Boston. Daily temperatures in Antwerp average around 8°C (47°F), and Boston fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

In Boston, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Antwerp often gets less sunshine than Boston. Antwerp gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 225 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets less rain in April than Boston. Antwerp gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Boston and Antwerp