A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Antwerp vs. Cairngorms National Park for Families, Couples, Food, and Backpackers

Should you visit Antwerp or Cairngorms National Park?

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 Cairngorms National Park 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 food, shopping, and museums.

Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a remote, beautiful, and serene national park. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food and hiking.

Antwerp and Cairngorms National Park: 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
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Antwerp or Cairngorms National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Antwerp. Although Antwerp and Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Cairngorms National Park is more touristy than Antwerp and is popular for its impressive hikes, scenic natural beauty, and nice mountains. 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.

How is Antwerp different from Cairngorms National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park?

Antwerp
Cairngorms National Park

Antwerp is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Antwerp or Cairngorms National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Antwerp
Cairngorms National Park

Dining out at restaurants in both Antwerp and Cairngorms National Park 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!

Cairngorms National Park is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants in the area that offer hearty dishes to fill a hungry hiker.

Is Antwerp or Cairngorms National Park Better for Nightlife?

Antwerp
Cairngorms National Park

Antwerp is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Antwerp has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Antwerp or Cairngorms National Park Better for its Old Town?

Antwerp
Cairngorms National Park

Antwerp is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Cairngorms National Park 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.

Cairngorms National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Antwerp or Cairngorms National Park Better for Hiking?

Antwerp
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Antwerp is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Cairngorms National Park. There are hikes for every skill level. You'll find waterfalls, open glens, mountains, and beautiful lakes. Some of the best hikes include the Falls of Bruar, Morrone, and the Seven Bridges Trail.

Antwerp is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Antwerp or Cairngorms National Park?

Antwerp
Cairngorms National Park

Antwerp is renowned for its shopping areas. However, Cairngorms National Park 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.

Cairngorms National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Antwerp or Cairngorms National Park Better for Families?

Antwerp
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Cairngorms National Park is a very kid-friendly national park. The outdoor wilderness, natural lakes, and fun activities make for a great family holiday. Head to the beach at Loch Morlich or go for a pony trek. You can also take a ride on the Strathspey Steam Railway or if the kids are craving a bit more excitement head to Landmark Forest Adventure Park.

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 Cairngorms National Park Better for Couples?

Antwerp
Cairngorms National Park

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

Couples visit Cairngorms National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The hiking, natural beauty, and stunning setting make for a wonderful couples getaway. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the serene setting and it's not uncommon for some couples to get engaged in this beautiful park.

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 Cairngorms National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antwerp
Cairngorms National Park

Antwerp and Cairngorms National Park are good 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 Cairngorms National Park. Transportation without a car is basically impossible, but camping is a great way to experience the park to its fullest without breaking the bank.

Is Antwerp or Cairngorms National Park Better for Students?

Antwerp
Cairngorms National Park

Antwerp is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Cairngorms National Park 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.

Cairngorms National Park is not popular with students.


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

Antwerp
Cairngorms National Park

Antwerp is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Cairngorms National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Antwerp has some public transit options. 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.

Public transit is generally limited in Cairngorms National Park. To fully explore the park, you really need to have your own vehicle, but there are local buses and trains that travel to the park.

Is Antwerp or Cairngorms National Park a more walkable city?

Antwerp
Cairngorms National Park

Antwerp is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

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

Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Antwerp Worth Visiting? and Is Cairngorms National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cairngorms National Park or Antwerp?

How long in Antwerp or Cairngorms National Park?

In either Antwerp or Cairngorms National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park.

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

Couples should spend more time in Antwerp than Cairngorms National Park. 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 Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Antwerp 1-3 
    Cairngorms National Park 3-5

One day in Antwerp or Cairngorms National Park?

With food and shopping around the genuine port city of Antwerp, there's plenty to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Cairngorms National Park, you'll find food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This national park 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 Cairngorms National Park?

With shopping and museums around the cultural destination of Antwerp, there's plenty to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. If you have a weekend, this port city makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Cairngorms National Park, you'll find food. 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. 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 Cairngorms National Park?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant port city of Antwerp. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Cairngorms National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cairngorms National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Antwerp or Cairngorms National Park?

Antwerp is a great place to explore. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cairngorms National Park. Many people enjoy the food when visiting Cairngorms National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Edinburgh, and The Best 2-Week Tours from London.


Which place is cheaper, Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park is €139. 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 Cairngorms National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Antwerp 71
    Cairngorms National Park 65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Antwerp 142
    Cairngorms National Park 130
Compare Hotels in Antwerp and Cairngorms National Park

Looking for a hotel in Antwerp or Cairngorms National Park? 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 Cairngorms National Park


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 Cairngorms National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Antwerp 12
    Cairngorms National Park 62

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Antwerp

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Antwerp:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Antwerp or Cairngorms National Park?

Prices for flights to both Cairngorms National Park 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
    Cairngorms National Park 35

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
    Cairngorms National Park 31

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 Cairngorms National Park

For Cairngorms National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Private Walking Tour to Ben Macdui Scotland: $114
  • Cairn Gorm Mountain Adventure Private Hike: $168
  • Private Guided Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $177
  • Private Guided Ridge Scrambling Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Rock Climbing Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountaineering Experience in the Cairngorms: $222

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Antwerp 18
    Cairngorms National Park 9.83

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


When comparing the travel costs between Antwerp and Cairngorms National Park, we can see that Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Antwerp or Cairngorms National Park?

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 Cairngorms National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Antwerp as well as Cairngorms National Park. The summer months attract visitors to Antwerp because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cairngorms National Park this time of year.

In the summer, Antwerp is a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Antwerp in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Cairngorms National Park averages at about 14°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Antwerp this time of the year. In the summer, Antwerp often gets more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park. Antwerp gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 147 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets more rain in July than Cairngorms National Park. Antwerp gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Antwerp 17°C (63°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Antwerp or Cairngorms National Park in the Autumn?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Antwerp are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Cairngorms National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Antwerp is generally a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Daily temperatures in Antwerp average around 12°C (54°F), and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

Antwerp usually receives more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park during autumn. Antwerp gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 84 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Antwerp usually receives more rain than Cairngorms National Park. Antwerp gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Antwerp 12°C (54°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 9°C (49°F)

Should I visit Antwerp or Cairngorms National Park in the Winter?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Antwerp during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Antwerp for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Cairngorms National Park in the winter for the cuisine.

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

In the winter, Antwerp often gets more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park. Antwerp gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 42 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets more rain in January than Cairngorms National Park. Antwerp gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Antwerp 3°C (38°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Antwerp or Cairngorms National Park in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Antwerp and Cairngorms National Park. Many visitors come to Antwerp in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Cairngorms National Park for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Antwerp is a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Antwerp in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Cairngorms National Park averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Antwerp usually receives more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park during spring. Antwerp gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 136 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Antwerp usually receives more rain than Cairngorms National Park. Antwerp gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Antwerp 8°C (47°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Cairngorms National Park and Antwerp

Antwerp Cairngorms National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 3°C (38°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 3°C (38°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (41°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (50°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 14°C (58°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 9°C (49°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 75 mm (2.9 in) 5°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in)