A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bali vs. Brussels for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Bali or Brussels?

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 Bali and Brussels can help you decide which place is right for you.

Bali

Bali is a spiritual, cultural, and stunning island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Brussels

Brussels is a authentic, colorful, and multicultural 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 nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bali and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bali or Brussels?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Brussels than Bali. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Brussels is very popular for its museums, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Bali attracts visitors for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Bali is more touristy than Brussels and is known for its many temples, beautiful beaches, world class scuba diving, and cultural retreats. Brussels is famous for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. It is also well known for La Grand Place (Grote Markt).

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Bali different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Brussels and Bali. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bali or Brussels?

Brussels is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Brussels specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Popular sights include Saint-Michel Cathedral, Place Royale, and the Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts. The city is filled with impressive architecture, fascinating art museums, and innovative science and technology museums.

Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Bali or Brussels? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bali is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Bali, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The food is rich and diverse with a lot of spices and complex flavors. Turmeric is a common spice and many dishes use coconut milk. Popular local dishes include Nasi Ayam (a chicken dish), Satay (grilled chicken), and Babi Guling (a pork dish).

Brussels has a huge number of terrific restaurants. While the city is most known for its waffles and fries, the diversity of dishes and international restaurant selection continues to grow. There are Lebanese, Japanese, and Indian restaurants among others. Popular local dishes include moules-frites, waterzooi (a stew), and stoemp (made with mashed potatoes and vegetables).

Is Bali or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

Bali is renowned for nightlife. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Bali is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The island is known for its crazy raves and all night pool parties. There are multi-story dance clubs as well as upscale bars and beach clubs that host parties late into the night. The best nightlife areas are around Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu.

If you're looking for night time activities Brussels has a few options to choose from. The city's nightlife is quieter and more mellow than some other major cities around Europe. That doesn't mean there aren't plenty of dance clubs and bars where you can hang out. Keep your wits about you after the sun goes down as some areas are a bit rougher than others.

Is Bali or Brussels Better for Resorts?

Bali is renowned for its resorts. However, Brussels is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Bali for its luxury resorts. The island has resorts as well as private villas that cater to everyone from celebrities to families or even budget travelers. Private villas offer a more secluded vacation while resorts usually have more amenities and the opportunity to socialize with other guests. There are also many family-friendly resorts around the island.

Brussels is not a resort destination.

Is Bali or Brussels Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Bali is renowned for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Brussels is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Bali. The waters are crystal clear and the marine life is abundant making scuba diving and snorkeling popular around the island. There are many snorkeling day trips that you can arrange and there are also dive shops that will take you out on the water.

Brussels is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bali or Brussels Better for Beaches?

Bali is renowned for its beaches. However, Brussels is not a beach destination.

Bali offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The island is large enough that it has a diversity of beach styles. There are popular beaches with water sports as well as secluded bays where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. Some beaches are dramatic with limestone cliffs while others are lined with palm trees.

Brussels is not a beach destination.

Is Bali or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

Brussels is a well-known place for its old town. However, Bali does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Brussels. The old town in the city center is where you'll find the greatest concentration of historic sights. The area is surrounded by tree-lined boulevards and is easy to explore.

Bali does not have a historic old town.

Is Bali or Brussels Better for Hiking?

Bali is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Brussels is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Bali. Walking on the island is beautiful and with its varied landscapes you can explore scenic rice paddies or pristine rainforests. You'll find the most challenging hikes in West Bali National Park, where a guide is recommended, but there are many other shorter hikes on the island that can be explored independently.

Brussels is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bali or Brussels?

Brussels is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bali is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Brussels make it a world-class shopping destination. Although it's famous for diamonds, the city also has many shopping streets where you can find designer brands, vintage shops, and other unique boutiques that are fun to explore.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Bali. A big appeal of shopping on the island is the affordability. There are many local items that are fun to bring home including jewelry, handicrafts, furniture, and clothing.

Is Bali or Brussels Better for Families?

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Bali or Brussels.

Bali is a very kid-friendly island. The island has countless activities that kids can enjoy. There are watersports, snorkeling, surfing lessons and beautiful beaches. You can also expose your kids to the spiritual side of the island with kid-friendly yoga classes. Animals lovers will enjoy getting to see the monkeys up close and for a unique culinary experience, you can take a family cooking class.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Brussels. The city has a number of unique kid-friendly activities including a Mini-Europe Museum, a Comic Strip Museum, and Train World. The city is also a chocolate lover's dream with many factories and chocolate shops around town.

Is Bali or Brussels Better for Couples?

Bali is renowned for romance. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Bali is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. This beautiful island offers stunning beaches, adventure sports, and world class snorkeling. There are beautiful resorts with spas as well as couples yoga classes impressive natural areas.

Brussels is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. From beautiful buildings and museums to shopping, dining, and chocolate shops, there are plenty of romantic spots around town. There's a vibrant nightlife scene and many diverse restaurants that couples can enjoy exploring.

Is Bali or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bali is renowned for backpackers. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Bali is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers flock to this beautiful island for its stunning setting and affordable accommodation. There are many nice places where backpackers can hang out and get to know other travelers. If you want to get off the beaten path, it's best to head into the countryside and away from the main tourist hubs.

Many backpackers visit Brussels. The city has an active nightlife and a number of hostels that are great for backpackers, but do take note that some areas can get a bit rough at night, so make sure you understand where you are.

Is Bali or Brussels Better for Students?

Brussels is a well-known place for students. However, Bali is not popular with students.

Brussels is very popular with students. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.

Bali is not popular with students.

Is Bali or Brussels Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Brussels is a must-visit destination for its public transit. Also, Bali is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Brussels has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

Bali has some public transit options. There are minibuses and tourist shuttle buses around the island. You can also hire a taxi or rent a car, scooter, or bicycle.

Is Bali or Brussels a more walkable city?

Brussels is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Bali is not a good island for its ease of walking around.

Brussels is a very walkable city. If you stay in the historical area, it's easy to walk around and many boulevards are being converted to pedestrian areas.

Bali is generally not a very walkable island. There are some walkable towns and cities on the island, but many areas can be challenging to navigate on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Bali Worth Visiting? and Is Brussels Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Bali?

How long in Bali or Brussels?

In either Bali or Brussels, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Bali than Brussels because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Bali, and 1-5 days is enough time in Brussels.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bali than Brussels 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 Bali.

One day in Bali or Brussels?

The beautiful island of Bali offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Brussels is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Bali or Brussels?

Bali is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Brussels is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the shopping. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Bali or Brussels?

Bali is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bali, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Brussels is a authentic big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Bali or Brussels?

Bali is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bali has to offer. This island offers something for everyone.

The cosmopolitan city of Brussels offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Indonesia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Indonesia, The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bali and Brussels, we can see that Brussels is more expensive. And not only is Bali much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Bali is in Asia and Brussels is in Europe, 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 Bali would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bali 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 Brussels would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Brussels than you might in Bali.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Bali Expensive? and Is Brussels Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bali or Brussels?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Bali. When comparing the sizes of Bali and Brussels, 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 Bali or Brussels?

Brussels has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Bali experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Bali or Brussels in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Bali and Brussels. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bali year-round. Also, most visitors come to Brussels for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Bali is generally a little warmer than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Bali average around 27°C (81°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

In Bali, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bali usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during summer. Bali gets 253 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 186 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bali usually receives less rain than Brussels. Bali gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer. April to September in Bali is the dry season.

Should I visit Bali or Brussels in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Bali as well as Brussels. Bali attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Brussels because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Bali is much warmer than Brussels in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bali averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Brussels fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bali this time of the year. In the autumn, Bali often gets more sunshine than Brussels. Bali gets 266 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 114 hours of full sun.

Bali usually gets less rain in October than Brussels. Bali gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year. October to March in Bali is the rainy season.

Should I visit Bali or Brussels in the Winter?

Both Brussels and Bali are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bali throughout the year. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Brussels this time of year.

It's quite cold in Brussels in the winter. In the winter, Bali is much warmer than Brussels. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bali in January average around 26°C (79°F), and Brussels averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Bali usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during winter. Bali gets 170 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bali usually receives more rain than Brussels. Bali gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter. The rainy season in Bali is October to March.

Should I visit Bali or Brussels in the Spring?

Both Brussels and Bali during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Bali because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Brussels for the activities around the city.

In April, Bali is generally much warmer than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Bali average around 27°C (81°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

It's quite sunny in Bali. In the spring, Bali often gets more sunshine than Brussels. Bali gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 147 hours of full sun.

Bali usually gets more rain in April than Brussels. Bali gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year. April to September is the dry season in Bali.

Typical Weather for Brussels and Bali