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

Should you visit Antwerp or Venice?

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

Antwerp

Antwerp is a genuine, cultural, and historical port city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Antwerp travel costs.

Venice

Venice is a cultural, magical, and historic city. The famous beauty of Venice is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food. See Venice travel costs.

Antwerp and Venice: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antwerp or Venice?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Venice than Antwerp. While Antwerp is larger than Venice, Venice has more sights and attractions for tourists. Venice is more popular for its museums and attractions, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Antwerp is known for its nightlife and big city activities. Venice is more touristy than Antwerp and is popular for its many canals, famous gondolas, iconic architecture, romantic squares, and beautiful bridges. It is also home to St. Mark's Basilica. Antwerp is popular for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town.

How is Antwerp different from Venice?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Venice is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Venice are among the most recognizable in the world. The many historic and famous landmarks in town include St. Mark's Basilica, St. Mark's Square, Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Antwerp can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Antwerp and Venice can be an enjoyable experience.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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!

Venice has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. For the best dining experience, you should try to avoid the touristy restaurants that serve the typical pizza and pasta. Instead, find a local eatery that specializes in the region's traditional flavors like fish and vegetables. Many of the restaurants are excellent, but head into the local neighborhoods for the best options.

Is Antwerp or Venice Better for Nightlife?

Antwerp is great for its evening party scene. However, Venice is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Antwerp for the nightlife scene. 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.

Most people don't head to Venice specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. If you want to party, your best option is to head to the Lido area where you'll find night clubs and bars. A better alternative for enjoying your evening is to order a late night meal and a glass of wine at a local restaurant in Venice.

Is Antwerp or Venice Better for its Old Town?

Venice 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, Venice offers plenty to see. The city's historic area is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, colorful buildings, are world-renowned architecture, make this among the most recognized historic settings in the world.

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 Venice?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Venice and Antwerp.

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 people travel to Venice specifically to go shopping. There are many unique items that people purchase in town. Some of the most popular include Murano glass, Burano lace, Venetian masks, and local fabrics.

Is Antwerp or Venice More Beautiful?

Venice is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Antwerp is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Venice is one of the main draws. The city's beautiful canals, architecture, and gondolas make it among the most stunning and unique places to visit in the world.

Antwerp is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Antwerp or Venice Better for Families?

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

Venice is a very kid-friendly city. Even for kids, visiting this city is all about soaking up the atmosphere and sense of place. It is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, historic buildings, gondolas, and plazas offer a special environment, even for kids who may be burned out from exploring cities. Attractions that appeal to kids include visiting the prisons at Doge's Palace, shopping for masks, and taking a ride on a gondola.

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 Venice Better for Couples?

Venice 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, Venice has plenty to offer. With its many truly unique romantic experiences, this city makes for a truly memorable honeymoon or romantic getaway. Ride a gondola, get lost in the city, and enjoy pasta and music around town to make the experience unlike any other.

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 Venice Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Venice is well known for backpackers. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Venice is a great city to visit for backpackers. Many backpackers stay just out of town to save a bit of money, but, even though it's not cheap, this city is well-established on the backpacker trail.

It's common for backpackers to 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.

Is Antwerp or Venice Better for Students?

Venice 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 Venice. Because of its well-established reputation, this city attracts many international students for both semester and full length programs. There are many programs to choose between, and many students focus on the region's art, architecture, history, and language.

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

Venice is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Venice can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There is a comprehensive boat and ferry system that includes aporettos, alilagunas, private water taxis, gondolas, and traghettos.

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 Venice a more walkable city?

Venice 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 Venice on foot is easy. Because it is small, it's easy to walk to all of the major tourist attractions.

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 Venice Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Venice or Antwerp?

How long in Antwerp or Venice?

Both Antwerp and Venice have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Venice than in Antwerp. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Antwerp, and 2-7 days is enough time in Venice.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Venice 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 Venice.

One day in Antwerp or Venice?

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 Venice, you'll find museums 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 Venice?

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 Venice, 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 Venice has to offer.

Five days in Antwerp or Venice?

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.

Venice is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Venice has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Antwerp or Venice?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic 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 Venice. In Venice, you'll find museums and food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Belgium, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Belgium, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Antwerp and Venice, we can see that Venice is more expensive. And not only is Antwerp much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Venice would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Venice 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 Venice Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Antwerp or Venice?

Antwerp has a larger population, and is about 70% larger than the population of Venice. When comparing the sizes of Antwerp and Venice, 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 Venice?

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 Venice in the Summer?

Both Venice 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. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Venice this time of year.

In the summer, Antwerp is cooler than Venice. Typically, the summer temperatures in Antwerp in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Venice averages at about 23°C (73°F).

In Venice, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Antwerp. In the summer, Antwerp often gets less sunshine than Venice. Antwerp gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Venice receives 287 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets more rain in July than Venice. Antwerp gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Venice receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antwerp or Venice in the Autumn?

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

In October, Antwerp is generally cooler than Venice. Daily temperatures in Antwerp average around 12°C (54°F), and Venice fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Antwerp usually receives less sunshine than Venice during autumn. Antwerp gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Venice receives 134 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Antwerp usually receives more rain than Venice. Antwerp gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Venice receives 67 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Antwerp or Venice in the Winter?

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

Venice can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Antwerp. Antwerp is a little warmer than Venice in the winter. The daily temperature in Antwerp averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Venice fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Antwerp often gets less sunshine than Venice. Antwerp gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Venice receives 88 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Venice. Antwerp gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Venice receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antwerp or Venice in the Spring?

Both Venice 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 Venice for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Antwerp is cooler than Venice. Typically, the spring temperatures in Antwerp in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Venice averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Antwerp usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Venice during spring. Antwerp gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Venice receives 154 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Antwerp usually receives less rain than Venice. Antwerp gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Venice receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Venice and Antwerp