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

Should you visit Antwerp or Strasbourg?

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

Antwerp

Antwerp is a vibrant, authentic, and genuine port city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a impressive, quaint, and historic city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Antwerp and Strasbourg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antwerp or Strasbourg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Antwerp than Strasbourg. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Antwerp is very popular for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Strasbourg attracts visitors for its food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Strasbourg is more touristy than Antwerp and is popular for its charming beauty, its impressive cathedral, and its quaint houses. Antwerp is famous for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town. It is also well known for Antwerpen-Centraal.

How is Antwerp different from Strasbourg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Antwerp and Strasbourg.

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 Strasbourg can be an interesting and educational experience. It is filled with grand monuments and historic landmarks. Many are concentrated in La Petite France and highlights include Strasbourg Cathedral, Barrage Vauban, Ponts Couverts, and Église Saint-Thomas.

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

Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg. The cuisine combines French and German flavors for rich and hearty flavors. Popular dishes include Tarte Flambée, Alsatian Sausages, and Baeckeoffe (meat and vegetable stew). Also make sure you sample the Sauerkraut, munster cheese, and Reisling wine.

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 Strasbourg Better for Nightlife?

Antwerp is a great port city for nightlife. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Antwerp has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Strasbourg. It's most famous for its monuments and charm, but the city also has plenty to do at night. The liveliest areas are The Krutenau (for students and tourists alike), The Grande-île, and La Petite France.

Is Antwerp or Strasbourg Better for its Old Town?

Strasbourg 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, Strasbourg offers plenty to see. Known as La Petite France, the old town is filled with charming squares, historic monuments, and beautiful architecture.

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 Strasbourg?

Antwerp is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Antwerp. 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.

Strasbourg is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city center is filled with pedestrian shopping streets and boutique stores. For some of the best shopping make sure you check out the main thoroughfare of Grand'Rue. If you want to pick up some trinkets or souvenirs, head to Place de la Cathédrale, and for department store shopping head to Galeries Lafayette Strasbourg.

Is Antwerp or Strasbourg Better for Families?

You'll find nice kid-friendly activities in either Antwerp or Strasbourg.

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.

Strasbourg offers lots of family activities. Kids who love animals will enjoy a visit to Zoo de l’Orangerie or La Montagne des Singes. If the kids need to stretch their legs you can head to Deux-Rives Garden or on a rainy day check out Planetarium De Strasbourg or the Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg.

Is Antwerp or Strasbourg Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Strasbourg frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the region and it is filled with romance. There is beautiful architecture, romantic restaurants, wine tours, and flower filled parks. The scenic squares and grand cathedrals offer a truly perfect couples getaway.

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 Strasbourg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antwerp and Strasbourg are nice 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 Strasbourg. The city has a handful of hostels that offer affordable accommodation for those on a shoestring budget.

Is Antwerp or Strasbourg Better for Students?

Antwerp is a great port city for its student-friendly activities. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Antwerp is very popular with students. 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.

Strasbourg is a good port city to visit for students. Students appreciate the mix of traditional culture and international opportunities.

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

Strasbourg is well known for its public transit. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Strasbourg has some very good public transit options. The city has six tramlines and a number of bus routes.

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.

Is Antwerp or Strasbourg a more walkable city?

Antwerp and Strasbourg both are very good 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.

Strasbourg is a very walkable destination. One of the best ways to explore the city is on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Strasbourg or Antwerp?

How long in Antwerp or Strasbourg?

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

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

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

One day in Antwerp or Strasbourg?

With museums and nightlife around the vibrant port city of Antwerp, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Antwerp, one day is sufficent for most.

In Strasbourg, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Strasbourg?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Antwerp, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this port city.

In Strasbourg, 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 Strasbourg has to offer.

Five days in Antwerp or Strasbourg?

Antwerp, a popular port city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg?

Antwerp is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Strasbourg. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Strasbourg. 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

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

Which is Bigger, Antwerp or Strasbourg?

Antwerp has a larger population, and is about 67% larger than the population of Strasbourg. When comparing the sizes of Antwerp and Strasbourg, 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 Strasbourg?

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 Strasbourg in the Summer?

Both Strasbourg and Antwerp during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Antwerp because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Strasbourg this time of year.

In July, Antwerp is generally cooler than Strasbourg. Daily temperatures in Antwerp average around 17°C (63°F), and Strasbourg fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In Strasbourg, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Antwerp. In the summer, Antwerp often gets less sunshine than Strasbourg. Antwerp gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Strasbourg receives 240 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets more rain in July than Strasbourg. Antwerp gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antwerp or Strasbourg in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Antwerp and Strasbourg. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Antwerp this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Strasbourg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Antwerp is around the same temperature as Strasbourg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Antwerp averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Strasbourg fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Antwerp usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Strasbourg during autumn. Antwerp gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Strasbourg receives 101 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Antwerp usually receives more rain than Strasbourg. Antwerp gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Antwerp or Strasbourg in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Antwerp as well as Strasbourg. Many travelers come to Antwerp for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Strasbourg in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Strasbourg can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Antwerp. In the winter, Antwerp is much warmer than Strasbourg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Antwerp in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Strasbourg averages at about 2°C (35°F).

In the winter, Antwerp often gets more sunshine than Strasbourg. Antwerp gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Strasbourg receives 42 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets more rain in January than Strasbourg. Antwerp gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antwerp or Strasbourg in the Spring?

Both Strasbourg and Antwerp are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Antwerp in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Strasbourg for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Antwerp is generally cooler than Strasbourg. Daily temperatures in Antwerp average around 8°C (47°F), and Strasbourg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Antwerp usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Strasbourg during spring. Antwerp gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Strasbourg receives 161 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Antwerp usually receives around the same amount of rain as Strasbourg. Antwerp gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Strasbourg and Antwerp