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

Should you visit Antwerp or Howth?

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 Howth 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.

Howth

Howth is a coastal, beautiful, and picturesque fishing village. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and food.

Antwerp and Howth: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antwerp or Howth?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Antwerp than Howth, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Antwerp is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Howth is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and small town charm. Howth is more touristy than Antwerp and is known for its scenic coastline, charming character, and its accessibility to Dublin. 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 Howth?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Antwerp is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Antwerp offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Howth. The surrounding coastline is the main draw to this picturesque town but there is also a nice harbor, pier, and lighthouse that you can visit.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Antwerp and Howth 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!

Howth is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are seafood restaurants and a few pubs where you can enjoy some fresh food and the local ambiance.

Is Antwerp or Howth Better for Nightlife?

Antwerp is well known for nightlife and partying. However, Howth is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

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.

Howth doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are a few pubs around town but if you're looking for a real nightlife scene then your best bet is to head into Dublin.

Is Antwerp or Howth Better for Beaches?

Howth is well known for the beache. However, Antwerp is not a beach destination.

Howth is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Many people head to this coastal town specifically to hang out on the beach. There's also the Howth Cliff Path which is fun to explore. Some of the top beaches in the area include Red Rock Beach, Claremont Beach, and Balscadden Bay Beach. The beaches can be rocky and rough so make sure you understand the water conditions before heading to the beach.

Antwerp is not a beach destination.

Is Antwerp or Howth Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Howth does not have a historic old town.

Is Antwerp or Howth Better for Hiking?

Howth is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Antwerp is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Howth. The best way to experience Howth is to explore the The Howth Cliff Walk. There are several versions of the hike that cater to different experience and skill levels.

Antwerp is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Antwerp or Howth?

Antwerp is an amazing port city to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Howth is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Howth is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Antwerp or Howth Better for Families?

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Antwerp or Howth.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Antwerp. 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.

Howth offers lots of family activities. It has a beach where kids can run around. There are also playgrounds, a lighthouse, and a pier to explore.

Is Antwerp or Howth Better for Couples?

Both Antwerp and Howth 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.

Howth is a good port city for couples to visit. The small fishing village has some great seafood restaurants and a beach where couples can pass the time.

Is Antwerp or Howth Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antwerp is a popular place for backpackers. However, Howth is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers 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.

Howth is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It a small village outside of Dublin so most backpackers don't make it this way.

Is Antwerp or Howth Better for Students?

Antwerp is well known for students. However, Howth is not popular with students.

Antwerp is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Howth is not popular with students.

Is Antwerp or Howth 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 Howth.

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 Howth offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. It's easy to reach the town from Dublin by DART.

Is Antwerp or Howth a more walkable city?

Antwerp and Howth both are great 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.

Howth is a very walkable destination. It's a small town that's easy to explore on foot. There are also many walks through the cliffs.

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

Should I spend more time in Howth or Antwerp?

How long in Antwerp or Howth?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Antwerp or Howth to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Antwerp than Howth 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 Howth.

Families should spend more time in Antwerp than Howth. 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 Antwerp than Howth. 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 Howth 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 Howth?

In Antwerp, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the shopping. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Howth, you'll find food and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This fishing village 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 Howth?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Antwerp. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

In Howth, you'll find museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Howth has to offer.

Five days in Antwerp or Howth?

Antwerp is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Antwerp. Lots of people come for the shopping. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Howth is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Howth?

You'll find food and shopping around the historical destination of Antwerp. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the shopping. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Howth. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Howth. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 2-Week Tours in Ireland, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Ireland.

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

When is the best time to visit Antwerp or Howth?

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 Howth in the Summer?

Both Howth and Antwerp are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Antwerp for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Howth because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Antwerp is around the same temperature as Howth in the summer. The daily temperature in Antwerp averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Howth 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 Howth during summer. Antwerp gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Howth receives 166 hours of full sun in the summer.

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

Should I visit Antwerp or Howth in the Autumn?

Both Howth and Antwerp during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Antwerp because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Howth this time of year.

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

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

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

Should I visit Antwerp or Howth in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Antwerp and Howth. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Antwerp this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Howth for the museums and the cuisine.

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

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

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

Should I visit Antwerp or Howth in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Antwerp as well as Howth. Many travelers come to Antwerp for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Howth in the spring for the beaches and the small town charm.

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

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

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

Typical Weather for Howth and Antwerp