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

Should you visit Antwerp or Budapest?

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

Antwerp

Antwerp is a historical, youthful, and vibrant port city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Budapest

Budapest is a cultural, artistic, and historic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Antwerp and Budapest: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antwerp or Budapest?

You'll generally find more things to do in Budapest than Antwerp. Budapest is bigger than Antwerp, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Budapest is better known for its big city activities and impressive beauty, while Antwerp is more popular for its food and shopping. Budapest is more touristy than Antwerp and is popular for its thermal hot springs, European spas, rich culture, and wild nightlife scene. Also, Budapest is famous for The Hungarian Parliament Building. Antwerp is well known for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town.

How is Antwerp different from Budapest?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Antwerp and Budapest.

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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Budapest can be an interesting and educational experience. Famous sights include the Buda Castle and Castle Hill, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen's Basilica.

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

Antwerp is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Budapest is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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!

Budapest may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Traditional dishes tend to be heavy on the meat and bread. They make good comfort food and are very filling meals. The city also has many great pastry shops. Make sure you check out the stuffed cabbage, goulash, and chimney cake.

Is Antwerp or Budapest Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Budapest for the nightlife scene. The city's active nightlife includes dance clubs, local pubs, and cultural festivals throughout the year.

Is Antwerp or Budapest Better for its Old Town?

Antwerp and Budapest are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

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.

Many visitors go to Budapest to see the historical old town. The city grew from the merging of two towns, Buda and Pest, which were divided by the Danube River. Buda is the more historical part of town and Pest is more modern.

Is the Shopping Better in Antwerp or Budapest?

Antwerp is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Antwerp draws large crowds to its 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Budapest. The city has a diverse shopping scene that you can experience by visiting the Central Market or Váci Street.

Is Antwerp or Budapest Better for Families?

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Antwerp or Budapest.

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.

Budapest offers lots of family activities. The city has the typical trampoline parks and playgrounds, but kids will also enjoy the baths and pools around town. Do take note that most of the museums are less hands on than kids prefer.

Is Antwerp or Budapest Better for Couples?

Budapest is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Budapest frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With it's many beautiful neighborhoods, and unique entertainment options including the opera, this is a fun city for couples. The baths and spas also make for a great experience for couples.

Antwerp is a good port city for couples to visit. 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 Antwerp or Budapest Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Budapest is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Budapest. The city is more affordable than many large cities and it has a number of fun hostels to choose from. There's a good backpacker vibe around town with many places to meet and hang out with other travelers.

It's common for backpackers to 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.

Is Antwerp or Budapest Better for Students?

Budapest 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 Budapest. The city has a great international vibe with several good universities that are welcoming to international students that are studying abroad.

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 Budapest Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Budapest 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 Budapest can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The metro, trams, and buses make it easy to get around town.

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 Budapest a more walkable city?

Budapest 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 Budapest on foot is easy. Pest is very flat, making for an easy stroll, while Buda is more hilly.

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 Budapest Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Budapest or Antwerp?

How long in Antwerp or Budapest?

In either Antwerp or Budapest, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Budapest than Antwerp because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Antwerp, and 2-5 days is enough time in Budapest.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Budapest 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 Budapest.

One day in Antwerp or Budapest?

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.

Because Budapest 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. 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 Budapest?

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.

Because Budapest 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. 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 Budapest has to offer.

Five days in Antwerp or Budapest?

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.

Budapest 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 Budapest has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Antwerp or Budapest?

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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Budapest. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Budapest. 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 from Budapest, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Budapest.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Antwerp or Budapest?

Budapest has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Antwerp. When comparing the sizes of Antwerp and Budapest, 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 Budapest?

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 Budapest in the Summer?

Both Budapest 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 city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Budapest this time of year.

Antwerp is cooler than Budapest in the summer. The daily temperature in Antwerp averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Budapest fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

In Budapest, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Antwerp. In the summer, Antwerp often gets less sunshine than Budapest. Antwerp gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 278 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets more rain in July than Budapest. Antwerp gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antwerp or Budapest in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Antwerp and Budapest. 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 Budapest for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Antwerp is around the same temperature as Budapest. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Antwerp in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Budapest averages at about 12°C (53°F).

Antwerp usually receives less sunshine than Budapest during autumn. Antwerp gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Antwerp usually receives more rain than Budapest. Antwerp gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Antwerp or Budapest in the Winter?

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

Budapest can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Antwerp. In January, Antwerp is generally much warmer than Budapest. Daily temperatures in Antwerp average around 3°C (38°F), and Budapest fluctuates around -1°C (31°F).

In the winter, Antwerp often gets less sunshine than Budapest. Antwerp gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 61 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets more rain in January than Budapest. Antwerp gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antwerp or Budapest in the Spring?

Both Budapest 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 Budapest for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Antwerp is cooler than Budapest in the spring. The daily temperature in Antwerp averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and Budapest fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Antwerp usually receives less sunshine than Budapest during spring. Antwerp gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Antwerp usually receives around the same amount of rain as Budapest. Antwerp gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Budapest and Antwerp