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

Should you visit Bangkok or Brussels?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Bangkok and Brussels can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Bangkok

Bangkok is a spirited, colorful, and vibrant capital city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Brussels

Brussels is a multicultural, historic, and cosmopolitan city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bangkok and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bangkok or Brussels?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bangkok than Brussels, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Bangkok is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, and impressive beauty, while Brussels is known for its historical sights. Bangkok is more touristy than Brussels and is known for its colorful temples, lively markets, wild nightlife, and sprawling shopping malls. It is also home to The Grand Palace and Wat Prakeaw. Brussels is popular for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles.

How is Bangkok different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bangkok is renowned for its museums and landmarks. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Bangkok that are not to be missed. The city is filled with golden temples and beautiful statues of Buddha. Famous landmarks include the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and the Temple of the Golden Buddha.

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

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

Bangkok 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 Bangkok, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city has many colorful markets, street food vendors, and a range of restaurants from casual to high end. The aroma and beautiful flavors of local dishes are a big part of the experience in this city. Dishes that you must try include Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong (shrimp soup), and Gaeng Daeng (red curry). Many foods are very spicy so make sure you order with "no spice" if that is your preference.

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 Bangkok or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

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

Bangkok is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. Cheap drinks, late nights, and crazy parties make this city a favorite for backpackers and young party-goers. Head to Khao San Road for the biggest crowds and crazy parties. Nana Plaza is another option with a three story building that is filled with bars and clubs.

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 Bangkok or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

Brussels is a great destination for its historic old town. However, Bangkok does not have a historic old town.

Brussels is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Bangkok does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Bangkok or Brussels?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Brussels and Bangkok.

Bangkok is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shopping options range from modern malls to more traditional markets. The malls offer bargain prices for technology and gadgets while the markets offer fabric, food, local goods, and a unique experience. The city also has nearby floating markets as well as night markets, which let you experience a different side to the culture.

Known for shopping, Brussels draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Is Bangkok or Brussels Better for Families?

Both Bangkok and Brussels are very good to visit with kids.

Bangkok is a very family-friendly place to visit. This city is full of energy and kids will love the vibrant atmosphere. There are colorful temples, spirited markets, and kid-friendly museums. It's good to choose a hotel with a pool, as temperatures can get hot during the day. Kids will also enjoy having new experiences like riding in a tuk tuk or taking a boat ride. There are also a number of amusement parks and entertainment centers around town.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Brussels is very family-friendly. 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 Bangkok or Brussels Better for Couples?

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

Bangkok is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. This is a great city for couples who enjoy culture, food, partying, and soaking up life. Wandering the grounds of the stunning temples, sampling food at the markets, or taking a boat cruise will all make memorable experiences.

Brussels is a great capital city 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 Bangkok or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Bangkok is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. This part of the world is a mecca for backpackers, and many arrive or depart from this city. It's filled with hostels and budget accommodation, as well as entertainment, bars, tours (and even scams so stay alert). The most famous backpacker area is around Khao San Road, where you'll find parties, bars, street food, and large crowds. If you're looking for a slightly more mellow vibe, you should consider a different area like Phaya Thai.

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 Bangkok or Brussels Better for Students?

Brussels is a great destination for students. However, Bangkok is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Brussels. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.

Bangkok is not popular with students.

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

Brussels is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Bangkok is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Brussels can get you around easily. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

While Bangkok offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The Skytrain and Metro are the most efficient way to get around. The city's crazy traffic can make buses and taxis a bit frustrating, but tuk tuks are also a fun option.

Is Bangkok or Brussels a more walkable city?

Brussels is a great destination for its walkability. However, Bangkok is a capital city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

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

Bangkok is generally not a very walkable capital city. The crowds and size make walking a bit challenging, so it's best to plan your day in advance.

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

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Bangkok?

How long in Bangkok or Brussels?

In either Bangkok or Brussels, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Bangkok than Brussels because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Bangkok, and 1-5 days is enough time in Brussels.

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

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

One day in Bangkok or Brussels?

Bangkok is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

In Brussels, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. This city 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 Bangkok or Brussels?

Bangkok is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this capital city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bangkok, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Brussels, 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. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Brussels has to offer.

Five days in Bangkok or Brussels?

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

Brussels 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 Brussels has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Bangkok or Brussels?

Bangkok is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bangkok has to offer. This capital city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brussels. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Brussels. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Thailand, The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand, The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bangkok and Brussels, we can see that Brussels is more expensive. And not only is Bangkok much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Bangkok 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 Bangkok would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bangkok 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 Bangkok.

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

Which is Bigger, Bangkok or Brussels?

Bangkok has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Brussels. When comparing the sizes of Bangkok 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 Bangkok or Brussels?

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

Should I visit Bangkok or Brussels in the Summer?

Both Brussels and Bangkok are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bangkok throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Brussels for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Bangkok is much warmer than Brussels in the summer. The daily temperature in Bangkok averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Brussels fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

Bangkok usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Brussels during summer. Bangkok gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 186 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Bangkok. In July, Bangkok usually receives more rain than Brussels. Bangkok gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bangkok or Brussels in the Autumn?

Both Brussels and Bangkok during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Bangkok because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many visitors come to Brussels in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Bangkok is much warmer than Brussels. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bangkok in October average around 28°C (83°F), and Brussels averages at about 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Bangkok. In the autumn, Bangkok often gets more sunshine than Brussels. Bangkok gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 114 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bangkok. Bangkok usually gets more rain in October than Brussels. Bangkok gets 242 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year. November to February is the dry season in Bangkok. May to October is the rainy season in Bangkok.

Should I visit Bangkok or Brussels in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bangkok and Brussels. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bangkok year-round. Furthermore, most visitors come to Brussels for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Brussels can be very cold during winter. In January, Bangkok is generally much warmer than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Bangkok average around 27°C (80°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In Bangkok, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bangkok usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during winter. Bangkok gets 276 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bangkok usually receives less rain than Brussels. Bangkok gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter. November to February in Bangkok is the dry season.

Should I visit Bangkok or Brussels in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Bangkok as well as Brussels. Bangkok attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Brussels because of the activities around the city.

Bangkok is much warmer than Brussels in the spring. The daily temperature in Bangkok averages around 31°C (87°F) in April, and Brussels fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bangkok this time of the year. In the spring, Bangkok often gets more sunshine than Brussels. Bangkok gets 262 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 147 hours of full sun.

Bangkok usually gets more rain in April than Brussels. Bangkok gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year. May to October in Bangkok is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Brussels and Bangkok