A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Antwerp vs. San Diego for Families, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Antwerp or San Diego?

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 San Diego can help you decide which place is right for you.

Antwerp

Antwerp is a historical, youthful, and vibrant port city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

San Diego

San Diego is a fun-filled, hip, and dynamic coastal city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Antwerp and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antwerp or San Diego?

You'll generally find more things to do in San Diego than Antwerp. San Diego is bigger than Antwerp, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. San Diego is better known for its music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Antwerp is more popular for its historical sights and shopping. San Diego is more touristy than Antwerp and is popular for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. Also, San Diego is famous for The San Diego Zoo. 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 San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 San Diego can be an interesting and educational experience. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Antwerp and San Diego 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!

San Diego is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

Is Antwerp or San Diego Better for Nightlife?

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

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 San Diego for the nightlife scene. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

Is Antwerp or San Diego Better for Music?

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

Music is a popular form of entertainment in San Diego. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Antwerp is not a live music destination.

Is Antwerp or San Diego Better for Resorts?

San Diego is very good for its resorts. However, Antwerp is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, San Diego makes a nice vacation spot. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Antwerp is not a resort destination.

Is Antwerp or San Diego Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

San Diego is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Antwerp is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in San Diego. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Antwerp is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Antwerp or San Diego Better for Beaches?

San Diego is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Antwerp is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, San Diego is a very popular vacation destination. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

Antwerp is not a beach destination.

Is Antwerp or San Diego Better for its Old Town?

Antwerp is great for its old town. However, San Diego 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.

San Diego does not have a historic old town.

Is Antwerp or San Diego Better for Hiking?

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

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around San Diego. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Antwerp is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Antwerp or San Diego?

Antwerp is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Antwerp draws large crowds to its stores. 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 go to San Diego to go shopping. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Is Antwerp or San Diego Better for Families?

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

San Diego is one of the most popular family destinations. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

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 San Diego Better for Couples?

San Diego is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, San Diego has plenty to offer. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

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 San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antwerp and San Diego 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 San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

Is Antwerp or San Diego Better for Students?

San Diego 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 San Diego. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

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

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

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.

Public transit is generally limited in San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

Is Antwerp or San Diego a more walkable city?

Antwerp is great for its high level of walkability. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city 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.

San Diego is a somewhat walkable port city. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

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

Should I spend more time in San Diego or Antwerp?

How long in Antwerp or San Diego?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Diego 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 San Diego.

One day in Antwerp or San Diego?

You'll find shopping and museums around the port city of Antwerp. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Antwerp has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In San Diego, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This coastal 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 San Diego?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Antwerp. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In San Diego, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. 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 San Diego?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural port city of Antwerp. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the shopping. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

San Diego is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that San Diego has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Antwerp or San Diego?

Antwerp is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Diego. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting San Diego. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. 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 Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Antwerp or San Diego?

San Diego has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Antwerp. When comparing the sizes of Antwerp and San Diego, 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 San Diego?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Antwerp or San Diego in the Summer?

Both San Diego and Antwerp during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Antwerp in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to San Diego for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Antwerp is cooler than San Diego in the summer. The daily temperature in Antwerp averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and San Diego fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

In San Diego, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Antwerp. In the summer, Antwerp often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Antwerp gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 306 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets more rain in July than San Diego. Antwerp gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antwerp or San Diego in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Antwerp and San Diego. 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 San Diego because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Antwerp is much colder than San Diego. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Antwerp in October average around 12°C (54°F), and San Diego averages at about 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Diego this time of the year. Antwerp usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during autumn. Antwerp gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 244 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Antwerp usually receives more rain than San Diego. Antwerp gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Antwerp or San Diego in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Antwerp as well as San Diego. 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 San Diego this time of year.

The weather in Antwerp can be very cold. In January, Antwerp is generally much colder than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Antwerp average around 3°C (38°F), and San Diego fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Diego. In the winter, Antwerp often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Antwerp gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 239 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets more rain in January than San Diego. Antwerp gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antwerp or San Diego in the Spring?

Both San Diego and Antwerp are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city are the main draw to Antwerp this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Diego for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Antwerp is much colder than San Diego in the spring. The daily temperature in Antwerp averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and San Diego fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

It's quite sunny in San Diego. Antwerp usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during spring. Antwerp gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 277 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Antwerp usually receives more rain than San Diego. Antwerp gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for San Diego and Antwerp