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

Should you visit Antwerp or Cabo San Lucas?

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 Cabo San Lucas 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Antwerp travel costs.

Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas is a scenic, idyllic, and wild city. The famous beauty of Cabo San Lucas is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Cabo San Lucas travel costs.

Antwerp and Cabo San Lucas: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Antwerp or Cabo San Lucas?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cabo San Lucas. Although Antwerp and Cabo San Lucas are popular destinations, Cabo San Lucas has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cabo San Lucas is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Antwerp attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, shopping, and big city activities. Cabo San Lucas is more touristy than Antwerp and is known for its beautiful coastline, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife scene. It is also well known for Land's End. 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 Cabo San Lucas?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cabo San Lucas 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 Cabo San Lucas?

Antwerp
Cabo San Lucas

Antwerp is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Cabo San Lucas is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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

Cabo San Lucas offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several historical sights in the area such as the Church of Saint Luke and San Jose del Cabo.


Is the Food Better in Antwerp or Cabo San Lucas? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Antwerp
Cabo San Lucas

Dining out at restaurants in both Antwerp and Cabo San Lucas can be an enjoyable experience.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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!

Cabo San Lucas has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. If you step away from the all-you-can-eat buffets in the resorts, and the tourist hot spots, you'll find some excellent local Mexican cuisine and nice fine dining restaurants. Fresh seafood and local produce make the dishes unique.

Is Antwerp or Cabo San Lucas Better for Nightlife?

Antwerp
Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Cabo San Lucas is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. It has a long reputation of being one of Mexico's best party destinations. There are wild, all-night dance parties, crazy and crowded clubs, and music that lasts well into the morning. The best nightlife can be found in the blocks around Plaza Bonita, near the marina boardwalk.

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.

Is Antwerp or Cabo San Lucas Better for Resorts?

Antwerp
Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas is well known for its resorts. However, Antwerp is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Cabo San Lucas. Many of the resorts are along parts of the coastline where it's not safe to swim. If you really want to enjoy swimming at a beachfront property, make sure you do some research in advance. Medano Beach is a nice area to consider.

Antwerp is not a resort destination.


Is Antwerp or Cabo San Lucas Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Antwerp
Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas is well known for its diving and snorkeling. However, Antwerp is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Cabo San Lucas. There are many snorkeling and scuba diving excursions that go out on half day and full day trips. Some of the best snorkeling is found at Cabo Pulmo, which has the only living coral reef in the Sea of Cortez.

Antwerp is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Antwerp or Cabo San Lucas Better for Beaches?

Antwerp
Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas is well known for the beach. However, Antwerp is not a beach destination.

Cabo San Lucas is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Because of the water conditions, it's not safe to swim at many of the beaches in the area. This is particularly true on the Pacific side of the city. Many people consider Medano Beach to be one of the best in the area, but also nice are Lover's Beach, the ironically named Divorce Beach, and Chileno Beach.

Antwerp is not a beach destination.

Is Antwerp or Cabo San Lucas Better for its Old Town?

Antwerp
Cabo San Lucas

Antwerp and Cabo San Lucas 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 Cabo San Lucas to see the historical old town. San Jose del Cabo is an "old town" that's a bit outside of town. It's particularly nice to visit on Thursdays when there's a nice market.


Is Antwerp or Cabo San Lucas Better for Hiking?

Antwerp
Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Antwerp is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Cabo San Lucas. It's not hard to get out into nature and you'll find many great hiking trails that go through varied and beautiful landscapes.

Antwerp is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Antwerp or Cabo San Lucas?

Antwerp
Cabo San Lucas

Antwerp is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Cabo San Lucas is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Cabo San Lucas is well-known for its shopping. There are many great shopping areas where you can pick up souvenirs or other interesting items to remember your trip. There are mall, markets, and boutique vendors that sell a variety of products.

Is Antwerp or Cabo San Lucas More Beautiful?

Antwerp
Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Antwerp is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Cabo San Lucas is one of the main draws. Beautiful beaches, stunning natural beauty, and striking landscapes make this a world class tropical destination.

Antwerp is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Antwerp or Cabo San Lucas Better for Families?

Antwerp
Cabo San Lucas

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

Cabo San Lucas is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will love the snorkeling, boat rides, and kid-friendly cuisine. There are many places where kids can get up close and personal with animals, such as Wild Canyon’s Kingdom or camel riding. You might even be able to see migrating whales during your visit. Surfing, fishing, and hiking are also popular in the area.

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 Cabo San Lucas Better for Couples?

Antwerp
Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Cabo San Lucas has plenty to offer. It has long been a favorite honeymoon destination and couples who enjoy a beach paradise with wildlife, diving, and outdoor adventures will appreciate Cabo San Lucas. There's also amazing Mexican food and world class resorts.

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 Cabo San Lucas Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antwerp
Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas is well known for backpackers. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Cabo San Lucas is a great city to visit for backpackers. It's a popular tourist destination, and there are a number of hostels and activities that backpackers will enjoy.

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 Cabo San Lucas Better for Students?

Antwerp
Cabo San Lucas

Antwerp is a great destination for students. However, Cabo San Lucas is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Antwerp. 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.

Cabo San Lucas is not popular with students.

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

Antwerp
Cabo San Lucas

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Antwerp and Cabo San Lucas.

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 Cabo San Lucas offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Buses make up the main form of public transit. They are called Subercabos and run between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo.

Is Antwerp or Cabo San Lucas a more walkable city?

Antwerp
Cabo San Lucas

Antwerp and Cabo San Lucas both are superb when exploring on foot.

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

Cabo San Lucas is a very walkable destination. The town is relatively easy to walk around with many things close together.


For even more information, also check out Is Antwerp Worth Visiting? and Is Cabo San Lucas Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cabo San Lucas or Antwerp?

How long in Antwerp or Cabo San Lucas?

Both Antwerp and Cabo San Lucas have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cabo San Lucas than in Antwerp. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Antwerp, and 3-7 days is enough time in Cabo San Lucas.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cabo San Lucas 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 Cabo San Lucas.


  • How many days in Antwerp or Cabo San Lucas? Ideal Length of Stay
    Antwerp 1-3 
    Cabo San Lucas 3-7

One day in Antwerp or Cabo San Lucas?

In Antwerp, you'll find museums and nightlife. Visiting the old town is also a must. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Cabo San Lucas, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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 Cabo San Lucas?

Antwerp is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Cabo San Lucas, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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 Cabo San Lucas?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Antwerp. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Cabo San Lucas is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cabo San Lucas has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Antwerp or Cabo San Lucas?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the port city of Antwerp. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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's hard to know how much time to spend in Cabo San Lucas. In Cabo San Lucas, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Belgium, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Brussels, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, and The Best Historical Tours in Mexico.


Which place is cheaper, Cabo San Lucas or Antwerp?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Antwerp Prices
    Belgium Prices
    Cabo San Lucas Prices
    Mexico Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Antwerp 152
    Cabo San Lucas 145

The average daily cost (per person) in Antwerp is €152, while the average daily cost in Cabo San Lucas is €145. 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 Cabo San Lucas in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Antwerp 71
    Cabo San Lucas 52
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Antwerp 142
    Cabo San Lucas 104
Compare Hotels in Antwerp and Cabo San Lucas

Looking for a hotel in Antwerp or Cabo San Lucas? 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 Cabo San Lucas


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 Cabo San Lucas Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Antwerp 12
    Cabo San Lucas 23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Antwerp

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Antwerp:

  • Antwerp Shuttle Transfer Schipol Airport Amsterdam (1 to 8 Places): $187
  • Belgium: Private Airport Transfer Service: $105
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Antwerp to Brussels By luxury car: $174
  • Private Departure Transfer from Antwerp to Brussels By luxury car: $185
  • Transfer Antwerp Luxembourg (1 to 8pl): $280

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cabo San Lucas

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cabo San Lucas:

  • 1 Way Private Transfer Los Cabos Airport to Todos Santos: $200
  • Airport Transfer to Cabo San Lucas & Pacific side Hotels & Villas Round Trip: $179
  • Airport Transfer to Cabo San Lucas IDA: $130
  • Cabo Airport (CSL) to Cabo San Lucas Round-Trip Private Transfer: $191
  • Cabo Airport Transportation (SJD) | Private Transfers: $150
  • Cabo Migriño: Choose 2 Activities + Airport Transfers & Tequila: $177
  • Cabo San Lucas Affordable Luxury Transfers: $145
  • Cabo San Lucas Airport (CSL) to Cabo San Lucas -Arrival Transfer: $78
  • Cabo San Lucas Airport (CSL) to Cabo San Lucas Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $73
  • Cabo San Lucas Airport (CSL) to Cabo San Lucas Port- Round-Trip Private Transfer: $145
  • Cabo San Lucas Airport (CSL) to Cabo San Lucas-Roundtrip Transfer: $156
  • Cabo San Lucas Cruise Port to Airport CSL Departure Transfer: $73

Is it cheaper to fly into Antwerp or Cabo San Lucas?

Prices for flights to both Cabo San Lucas 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 68
    Cabo San Lucas 72

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Antwerp

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

  • Private Authentic Indian Cooking Class in Antwerp with Aastha: $124

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cabo San Lucas

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Cabo San Lucas.

  • Seafood Galore, Los Cabos Food Tour: $80
  • Sunset Fajita Dinner Cruise in Cabo San Lucas: $80
  • Flavors of Authentic Mexican Food Tour: $83
  • Taste Tacos & Street Food Like a Local: Cabo San Lucas Food Tour: $85
  • San José del Cabo for Meat Lovers Food Tour: $90
  • Catch of the day dinner in your private villa/condo in Cabo or San Jose del Cabo: $90
  • Sunset Mexican Dinner Cruise and Live Music in Cabo San Lucas: $95
  • Parrillada dinner with a Private Chef in your villa/condo in Cabo or San Jose: $95
  • Sunset Booze Cruise with Drinks, Fajita Dinner and Party Vibes: $98
  • Cabo San Lucas Sunset Dinner Catamaran Cruise to the Arch: $99
  • Cabo Escape Sunset Cruise with Dinner and Open Bar: $99
  • Pirate Ship Sunset Dinner and Show in Los Cabos: $99

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Antwerp 8.21
    Cabo San Lucas 35

Tours and Activities in Antwerp

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

  • Historical Walking Tour in Antwerp Old City: $2.61
  • Historical Walking Tour in the Old City: $3.48
  • Historical Walking Tour: Legends of Antwerp: $3.49
  • Evening Walking Tour: The Dark Side of Antwerp: $3.49
  • Tasting Tour: A Taste of Antwerp (Fries, Waffles, Beer & More): $3.50
  • TOP Antwerp : Private Guided Tour with your mobile: $5.83
  • Antwerp Steenplein Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $6.37
  • Antwerp Audio guided walking tour 2h15 and 21 audio commentary: $6.88
  • Antwerp Scavenger Hunt & Highlights Self-Guided Walking Tour: $9.32
  • Antwerp Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self Guided Audio Tour: $10
  • Antwerp Walking Tour with Audioguide on Your Smartphone: $12
  • Hidden Antwerp Self Guided Tour: History, Art and Fashion: $12

Tours and Activities in Cabo San Lucas

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

  • Tour to Arch in the only Clear Boat in Cabo Cruise Hotel PICKUP!: $11
  • Tour to Arch in the only Clear Boat in Cabo Cruise Hotel PICKUP!: $15
  • Glass Bottom Boat Tour to the Arch in Cabo San Lucas: $15
  • Tour to Arch in the only Clear Boat in Cabo Cruise Hotel PICKUP!: $15
  • Cabo Clear Boat Tour to the Arch: Hotel Pickup Available: $15
  • Tour to Arch in the only Clear Boat in Cabo Cruise Hotel PICKUP!: $16
  • ATV and Camel Experience Los Cabos: $17
  • The Ultimate Camel Safari Experience in Los Cabos: $17
  • ATV Ride & Camel Experience : A Double Adventure: $17
  • Cabo San Lucas Arch and Lover's Beach Boat Tour: $19
  • Boat Tour with Glass Arc Bottom with Beach Time: $19
  • Cabo San Lucas Arch Tour and we go down to Playa del Amor: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Antwerp 18
    Cabo San Lucas 23

Sample the Local Flavors in Antwerp

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

  • City Brewery De Koninck Interactive Tour: $19
  • Antwerp Pub Crawl: $70
  • Pub Crawl in the Historical City: $105
  • Private Wine Tasting in Boomgaardstraat Antwerp: $105

Sample the Local Flavors in Cabo San Lucas

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Cabo San Lucas:

  • Cabo Bar Crawl to the Best Bars and Clubs in Cabo: $60


When comparing the travel costs between Antwerp and Cabo San Lucas, 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. Even though Antwerp is in Europe and Cabo San Lucas is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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


Which is Bigger, Antwerp or Cabo San Lucas?

Antwerp has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Cabo San Lucas. When comparing the sizes of Antwerp and Cabo San Lucas, 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.