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

Should you visit Antwerp or Girona?

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 Girona 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 nightlife, food, and shopping.

Girona

Girona is a beautiful, colorful, and medieval city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Antwerp and Girona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antwerp or Girona?

You'll generally find more things to do in Antwerp than Girona. Antwerp is bigger than Girona, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Antwerp is better known for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Girona is more popular for its food, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Girona is more touristy than Antwerp and is known for its ancient ruins, colorful old town, grand cathedral, and impressive local cuisine. Antwerp is well known for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town. Also, Antwerp is famous for Antwerpen-Centraal.

How is Antwerp different from Girona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the high quality sights and museums in both Antwerp and Girona.

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 Girona can be an interesting and educational experience. Wander the ancient city walls, explore the beautiful Girona Cathedral, and learn about the Church of Sant Feliu. There are also some interesting museums in town including the Museum of Jewish History, the Archaeology Museum, and the Film Museum. Also make sure you walk across the famed Eiffel Bridge.

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

Girona is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Girona. The small city is filled with cafes and restaurants that spill out into the street. There are also markets such as El Lleó Marketplace where you can check out fresh, local items. Many restaurants also have Catalonian style tapas, seafood such as octopus, and garlic shrimp. For breakfast, there are many pastry shops where you can enjoy a European breakfast.

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 Girona Better for Nightlife?

Antwerp is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Girona is not a good city for its evening party scene.

Antwerp offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Girona. It's a surprisingly quiet town, especially compared to other nearby party cities, but there are some nightclubs, bars, and music venues that are worth checking out.

Is Antwerp or Girona Better for its Old Town?

Girona is an unbeatable place for its old town. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

With a famous historical old-town, Girona offers plenty to see. It's a beautiful medieval old town with many wandering streets that are lined with storefronts and classic European cafes.

Many visitors go to Antwerp to see the historical old town. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Antwerp or Girona?

Antwerp is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Girona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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 Girona. In and around the old town you'll find modern shops, local eateries, charming markets, and anything you might need to purchase. There's also no shortage of souvenir and trinket shops, but they have a bit of personality and character to them.

Is Antwerp or Girona Better for Families?

Antwerp is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Girona is not a good city for its kid-friendly activities.

Antwerp is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Girona is not always a place people visit with their families. While the old town is beautiful, with charming colorful buildings, the city itself doesn't have a wide number of activities for kids. There are ice cream shops where they can enjoy a sweet treat. There are also several museums and many restaurants have kid-friendly menus.

Is Antwerp or Girona Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Girona frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The setting is both beautiful and romantic. Couples can enjoy wandering the streets, popping in the many shops, and soaking up the atmosphere. There are also many great restaurants that make for a wonderful night out. Head up the hills towards the cathedral for the best viewpoints, or wander along the river and enjoy the colorful atmosphere.

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 Girona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antwerp and Girona are notable 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 Girona. Prices aren't too crazy and it's not hard to find a place to stay for an affordable price, but you won't find the lively backpacker scene that is common in many nearby cities.

Is Antwerp or Girona Better for Students?

Antwerp is a well-known place for students. Also, Girona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Many students visit 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.

Plenty of students visit Girona. It's a smaller city with affordable accommodation and many great restaurants. It has a quintessential European atmosphere that makes it a fun place to spend some time as a student

Is Antwerp or Girona 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 Girona.

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 Girona offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The town is small enough that you can likely walk anywhere you want to go, but if you need transit, there are 10 local bus routes.

Is Antwerp or Girona a more walkable city?

Girona 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 Girona on foot is easy. Everything is easily accessible on foot and its best not to bring a car into town.

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 Girona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Girona or Antwerp?

How long in Antwerp or Girona?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Antwerp or Girona to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Antwerp than Girona because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Antwerp, and 1-2 days is enough time in Girona.

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

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

One day in Antwerp or Girona?

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 Girona, you'll find museums and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Antwerp or Girona?

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 Girona, 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Girona has to offer.

Five days in Antwerp or Girona?

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.

Girona 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.

A week in Antwerp or Girona?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the youthful 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 Girona. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Girona. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid.

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

Which is Bigger, Antwerp or Girona?

Antwerp has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Girona. When comparing the sizes of Antwerp and Girona, 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 Girona?

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 Girona in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Antwerp and Girona. Many visitors come to Antwerp in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Girona for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Antwerp is cooler than Girona in the summer. The daily temperature in Antwerp averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Girona fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Girona this time of the year. In Antwerp, it's very sunny this time of the year. Antwerp usually receives less sunshine than Girona during summer. Antwerp gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Girona receives 279 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Antwerp usually receives more rain than Girona. Antwerp gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Girona receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Antwerp or Girona in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Antwerp as well as Girona. Most visitors come to Antwerp for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Girona because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Antwerp is cooler than Girona. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Antwerp in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Girona averages at about 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Antwerp often gets less sunshine than Girona. Antwerp gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Girona receives 170 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Girona. Antwerp gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Girona receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antwerp or Girona in the Winter?

Both Girona and Antwerp are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Antwerp because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Girona this time of year.

The weather in Antwerp can be very cold. In January, Antwerp is generally much colder than Girona. Daily temperatures in Antwerp average around 3°C (38°F), and Girona fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Antwerp usually receives less sunshine than Girona during winter. Antwerp gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Girona receives 148 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Antwerp usually receives around the same amount of rain as Girona. Antwerp gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Girona receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Antwerp or Girona in the Spring?

Both Girona and Antwerp during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city are the main draw to Antwerp this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Girona for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Antwerp is cooler than Girona in the spring. The daily temperature in Antwerp averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and Girona fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Antwerp often gets less sunshine than Girona. Antwerp gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Girona receives 177 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets less rain in April than Girona. Antwerp gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Girona receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Girona and Antwerp