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

Should you visit Antwerp or Dublin?

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

Antwerp

Antwerp is a authentic, genuine, and cultural port city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Dublin

Dublin is a fun, laid-back, and friendly city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Antwerp and Dublin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antwerp or Dublin?

You'll generally find more things to do in Dublin than Antwerp. Dublin is bigger than Antwerp, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Dublin is better known for its nightlife and music, while Antwerp is more popular for its shopping. Dublin is more touristy than Antwerp and is known for its friendly and social nightlife, its local pubs, and its role as the birthplace of Guinness. Also, Dublin is famous for The Guinness Storehouse. 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 Dublin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the excellent sights and museums in both Antwerp and Dublin.

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 Dublin can be an interesting and educational experience. There are a number of museums around town including the National Museum of Ireland, the Little Museum of Dublin, and the National Gallery of Ireland.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Antwerp and Dublin 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!

Dublin is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Seafood has become popular around town, but you can also try traditional favorites like stew, pancakes, or coddle.

Is Antwerp or Dublin Better for Nightlife?

Dublin 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 Dublin is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Temple Bar is where you'll find the greatest concentration of pubs and nightlife. The city is among the friendliest and most welcoming, and this is seen even in the vibe around town at night.

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 Dublin Better for Music?

Dublin is well known for its live music scene. However, Antwerp is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Dublin. The best places to hear live music around town are the back street pubs that feature local groups.

Antwerp is not a live music destination.

Is Antwerp or Dublin Better for its Old Town?

Antwerp and Dublin 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 Dublin to see the historical old town. On the south side of the River Liffey are three different historic parts to the city. The Medieval Quarter is the oldest. To the east is Temple Bar, and further east is the Georgian Quarter.

Is the Shopping Better in Antwerp or Dublin?

Antwerp is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

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 visitors explore the shopping areas in Dublin. Head to Grafton Street to see a number of brand name and local shops. It's a pedestrian street that is fun to wander around.

Is Antwerp or Dublin Better for Families?

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

Dublin is a very kid-friendly city. Explore the waterways with the viking splash, learn about the vikings at the museum Dublina, or visit any of the other kid-friendly museums around town, or see a show at The Gaiety.

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 Dublin Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Dublin frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's laid-back vibe and countless pubs make it a fun weekend getaway 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 Dublin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Dublin is a great city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of popular backpacker hostels around town. The pub scene is also popular with the young crowd.

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 Dublin Better for Students?

Antwerp is a great destination for students. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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.

It's common for students to visit Dublin. While student accommodation can be a bit expensive in town, the nightlife and social aspect of living in the city center makes it well worth it.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Antwerp and Dublin.

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 Dublin offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Antwerp or Dublin a more walkable city?

Dublin 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 Dublin on foot is easy. Because it is so compact and flat, it is easy to explore the city center 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 Dublin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dublin or Antwerp?

How long in Antwerp or Dublin?

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

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

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

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

One day in Antwerp or Dublin?

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.

In Dublin, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Dublin?

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.

In Dublin, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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 nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dublin has to offer.

Five days in Antwerp or Dublin?

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.

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

A week in Antwerp or Dublin?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant 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 Dublin. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Dublin. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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 Walking Tours in Ireland, and The Best Luxury Tours to Ireland.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Antwerp and Dublin, we can see that Dublin is more expensive. And not only is Antwerp much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Dublin would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dublin 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 Dublin Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Antwerp or Dublin?

Dublin has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Antwerp. When comparing the sizes of Antwerp and Dublin, 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 Dublin?

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 Dublin in the Summer?

Both Dublin and Antwerp are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Antwerp this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dublin for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Antwerp is around the same temperature as Dublin in the summer. The daily temperature in Antwerp averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Dublin fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Antwerp. Antwerp usually receives more sunshine than Dublin during summer. Antwerp gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Dublin receives 166 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Antwerp usually receives more rain than Dublin. Antwerp gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Antwerp or Dublin in the Autumn?

Both Dublin and Antwerp during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Antwerp for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Dublin in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In the autumn, Antwerp is around the same temperature as Dublin. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Antwerp in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Dublin averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Antwerp often gets more sunshine than Dublin. Antwerp gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dublin receives 97 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets more rain in October than Dublin. Antwerp gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antwerp or Dublin in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Antwerp and Dublin. Many visitors come to Antwerp in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Dublin for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Antwerp can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Antwerp is generally much colder than Dublin. Daily temperatures in Antwerp average around 3°C (38°F), and Dublin fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Antwerp usually receives less sunshine than Dublin during winter. Antwerp gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Dublin receives 56 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Antwerp usually receives less rain than Dublin. Antwerp gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Antwerp or Dublin in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Antwerp as well as Dublin. Most visitors come to Antwerp for the activities around the city during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Dublin because of the activities around the city.

Antwerp is around the same temperature as Dublin in the spring. The daily temperature in Antwerp averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and Dublin fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the spring, Antwerp often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dublin. Antwerp gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dublin receives 157 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets less rain in April than Dublin. Antwerp gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Dublin and Antwerp