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

Should you visit Antwerp or Houston?

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 Houston 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.

Houston

Houston is a one-of-a-kind, diverse, and sprawling city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Antwerp and Houston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antwerp or Houston?

You'll generally find more things to do in Houston than Antwerp. Houston is bigger than Antwerp, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Houston is better known for its music and big city activities, while Antwerp is more popular for its historical sights and shopping. Antwerp is well known for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town. Houston is well known for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA. Also, Houston is famous for The Space Center Houston.

How is Antwerp different from Houston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Houston can be an interesting and educational experience. Head to Houston's Museum District to explore 19 different museums in a walkable area. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Space Center, but other popular museums include the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Children's Museum.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Antwerp and Houston 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!

Houston is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods. It's a surprisingly diverse city and this is reflected in the restaurant selection around town.

Is Antwerp or Houston Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Antwerp and Houston.

Antwerp is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Many people head to Houston for the nightlife scene. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life. There are a diversity of venues around town including dance clubs, Honky Tonks, and cocktail bars. Some of the most active nightlife areas are Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, Washington Avenue, and Rice Village.

Is Antwerp or Houston Better for Music?

Houston is very good for its live music scene. However, Antwerp is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Houston. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Antwerp is not a live music destination.

Is Antwerp or Houston Better for its Old Town?

Antwerp is well known for its old town. However, Houston does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see 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.

Houston does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Antwerp or Houston?

Antwerp is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Houston 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.

Houston has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of upscale malls and shopping centers that have brand names, chain stores, and the occasional local shop where you can pick up items.

Is Antwerp or Houston Better for Families?

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

Houston is a very kid-friendly city. It is a large city with plenty of things that kids can enjoy including museums, theaters, a zoo, and even the Space Center. The Children's Museum of Houston is perfect for a rainy day. For science loving kids there's the Health Museum and the Museum of Natural Science. Houston also has a Six Flags nearby which the whole family can enjoy.

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 Houston Better for Couples?

Both Antwerp and Houston are notable 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.

Houston is a good port city for couples to visit. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.

Is Antwerp or Houston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antwerp is a good destination for backpackers. However, Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Antwerp or Houston Better for Students?

Antwerp is well known for students. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

It's common for students to visit Houston. It's a large city with a number of universities and a large student population.

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

Antwerp is a good destination for its public transit. However, Houston is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Houston. The system includes buses and a limited light rail. Houston is known as a car-centric city and you really need a car to fully experience it.

Is Antwerp or Houston a more walkable city?

Antwerp is well known for its high level of walkability. However, Houston is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

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

Houston is generally not a very walkable port city. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights, but most parts of the city aren't very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Houston or Antwerp?

How long in Antwerp or Houston?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Antwerp and Houston. In our opinion, Antwerp has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Antwerp than Houston. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Antwerp, and 2-3 days is enough time in Houston.

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

Couples should spend more time in Antwerp than Houston. 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 Houston 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.

One day in Antwerp or Houston?

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 Houston 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 Houston?

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 Houston 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. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Houston has to offer.

Five days in Antwerp or Houston?

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.

Houston is a great place to explore. 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 Houston?

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 Houston. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Houston. 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 Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

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

Which is Bigger, Antwerp or Houston?

Houston has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Antwerp. When comparing the sizes of Antwerp and Houston, 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 Houston?

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 Houston in the Summer?

Both Houston and Antwerp are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Antwerp in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Houston for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Antwerp is much colder than Houston in the summer. The daily temperature in Antwerp averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Houston fluctuates around 84°F (29°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Houston. In July, Antwerp usually receives less rain than Houston. Antwerp gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Houston receives 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Antwerp or Houston in the Autumn?

Both Houston and Antwerp during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Antwerp for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Houston because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In the autumn, Antwerp is much colder than Houston. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Antwerp in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Houston averages at about 71°F (22°C).

Houston gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Antwerp usually gets less rain in October than Houston. Antwerp gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Houston receives 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antwerp or Houston in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Antwerp and Houston. 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 Houston this time of year.

The weather in Antwerp can be very cold. In January, Antwerp is generally much colder than Houston. Daily temperatures in Antwerp average around 3°C (38°F), and Houston fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

In January, Antwerp usually receives less rain than Houston. Antwerp gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Houston receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Antwerp or Houston in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Antwerp as well as Houston. The activities around the city are the main draw to Antwerp this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Houston for the activities around the city.

Antwerp is much colder than Houston in the spring. The daily temperature in Antwerp averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and Houston fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

Antwerp usually gets less rain in April than Houston. Antwerp gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Houston receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Houston and Antwerp