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

Should you visit Antwerp or Chicago?

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

Antwerp

Antwerp is a youthful, vibrant, and authentic port city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Chicago

Chicago is a diverse, vibrant, and multicultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and shopping.

Antwerp and Chicago: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antwerp or Chicago?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chicago than Antwerp, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Chicago is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Antwerp is known for its historical sights. Chicago is more touristy than Antwerp and is known for its thriving sports scene, its iconic local cuisine, and its world class shopping at the Magnificent Mile. It is also home to The Willis Tower (previously the Sears Tower). Antwerp is popular for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town.

How is Antwerp different from Chicago?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chicago 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 Chicago are among the most recognizable in the world. There are countless landmarks, museums, and iconic sights in the area. Some of the most famous are the Art Institute of Chicago, Adler Planetarium, and the Museum of Science and Industry. Notable landmarks include the famous Willis Tower - formerly the Sears Tower, Buckingham Fountain, and the iconic Cloud Gate (the bean).

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 Chicago Better for Theater?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its theatre productions. However, Antwerp is not a theatre destination.

The theater scene in Chicago is world-class. Theater is big here with many of the major Broadway productions visiting the city. There is also an endless list of smaller, local theaters to choose from.

Antwerp is not a theatre destination.

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

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Chicago has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. With everything from award-winning luxury restaurants to local dives, this city has something for everyone. It also has very distinct local flavors and dishes that create an identity and bring great pride to the locals. While you're in town you have to try the famous deep dish pizza, Chicago style hot dogs, and Italian beef.

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 Chicago Better for Nightlife?

Chicago 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 Chicago is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. It has a wide range of activities at night, with everything from theater and comedy clubs to dance venues, sporting events, and local bars. It's easy to fill many evenings with whatever activity appeals to you. Popular bars and clubs include the Smart Bar, Beauty Bar, and Le Nocturne.

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 Chicago Better for Music?

Chicago is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Antwerp is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Chicago The city is the birthplace of such interesting styles as modern gospel and the Chicago style blues.

Antwerp is not a live music destination.

Is Antwerp or Chicago Better for Beaches?

Chicago is very good for the beache. However, Antwerp is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Chicago to enjoy the beach. While you don't immediately think of beaches when you think of Chicago, there are some nice beaches by the lake. If the weather is nice, it's a great area to spend some time.

Antwerp is not a beach destination.

Is Antwerp or Chicago Better for its Old Town?

Antwerp is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Chicago 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.

Chicago does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Antwerp or Chicago?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Chicago and Antwerp.

The abundance of shops in Antwerp make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Many people travel to Chicago specifically to go shopping. There are countless neighborhoods that are filled with boutiques, local vendors, and art galleries. The city has some of the country's best shopping opportunities, and the most notable area is the famous Michigan Avenue and the Magnificent Mile.

Is Antwerp or Chicago Better for Christmas?

Chicago 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 Chicago. There's a number of seasonal celebrations, ice skating, and excellent shopping.

Antwerp does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Antwerp or Chicago Better for Christmas Markets?

Chicago is very good for its Christmas markets. However, Antwerp does not offer Christmas markets.

Chicago offers some nice Christmas markets. Shopping is a highlight of a trip to the city, and the Christkindlmarkt is not to be missed.

Antwerp does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Antwerp or Chicago Better for Families?

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

Chicago is one of the most popular family destinations. The city has a large number of activities for kids, including zoos, Shedd Aquarium, impressive children's museums, and large and elaborate playgrounds in Millennium Park. It's easy to keep kids entertained in this very kid-focused city.

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 Chicago Better for Couples?

Both Antwerp and Chicago 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.

Chicago is a good port city for couples to visit. Couples will enjoy exploring the city's vibrant theater scene and diverse neighborhoods. There are many varied restaurants and entertainment options that make for a great date night. There are also sporting events, parks, and gardens where couples can explore.

Is Antwerp or Chicago Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antwerp and Chicago 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 Chicago. The city doesn't have a huge backpacker vibe, but it does have a number of hostels that help keep costs in check.

Is Antwerp or Chicago Better for Students?

Chicago 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 Chicago. The city has a large number of universities that bring in students from around the country and around the globe. It's a huge international city with economic ties and many opportunities connected to the universities.

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

Chicago 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 Chicago can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

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 Chicago a more walkable city?

Antwerp and Chicago both are very good 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.

Chicago is a very walkable destination. The city has many restaurants, sights, and hotels that are easily accessible on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Chicago or Antwerp?

How long in Antwerp or Chicago?

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

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

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

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

One day in Antwerp or Chicago?

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.

Because Chicago is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Chicago?

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.

Because Chicago 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. 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 Chicago?

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.

Chicago is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chicago has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Antwerp or Chicago?

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 Chicago. Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Chicago. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Antwerp and Chicago, we can see that Chicago 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 Chicago 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 Chicago would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chicago 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 Chicago Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Antwerp or Chicago?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Antwerp. When comparing the sizes of Antwerp and Chicago, 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 Chicago?

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 Chicago in the Summer?

Both Chicago and Antwerp are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Antwerp because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Chicago this time of year.

In the summer, Antwerp is cooler than Chicago. Typically, the summer temperatures in Antwerp in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Chicago averages at about 77°F (25°C).

It's quite sunny in Chicago. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Antwerp. Antwerp usually receives less sunshine than Chicago during summer. Antwerp gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 326 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chicago. In July, Antwerp usually receives less rain than Chicago. Antwerp gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Antwerp or Chicago in the Autumn?

Both Chicago and Antwerp during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Antwerp this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Chicago for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Antwerp is generally cooler than Chicago. Daily temperatures in Antwerp average around 12°C (54°F), and Chicago fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

In the autumn, Antwerp often gets less sunshine than Chicago. Antwerp gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 195 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets more rain in October than Chicago. Antwerp gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antwerp or Chicago in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Antwerp and Chicago. Many travelers come to Antwerp for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Chicago in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Chicago can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Antwerp. Antwerp is much warmer than Chicago in the winter. The daily temperature in Antwerp averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Chicago fluctuates around 25°F (-4°C).

Antwerp usually receives less sunshine than Chicago during winter. Antwerp gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 134 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Antwerp usually receives more rain than Chicago. Antwerp gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Antwerp or Chicago in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Antwerp as well as Chicago. Many visitors come to Antwerp in the spring for the activities around the city. Additionally, most visitors come to Chicago for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Antwerp is cooler than Chicago. Typically, the spring temperatures in Antwerp in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Chicago averages at about 52°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chicago. In the spring, Antwerp often gets less sunshine than Chicago. Antwerp gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 218 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Chicago. Antwerp usually gets less rain in April than Chicago. Antwerp gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Chicago and Antwerp