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

Should you visit Beijing 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 Beijing 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.

Beijing

Beijing is a massive, jam-packed, and cultural city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Beijing is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Beijing travel costs.

Brussels

Brussels is a multicultural, historic, and cosmopolitan city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Brussels travel costs.

Beijing and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Beijing or Brussels?

You'll generally find more things to do in Beijing than Brussels. Beijing is bigger than Brussels, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Beijing is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and impressive beauty, while Brussels is more popular for its historical sights and shopping. Beijing is more touristy than Brussels and is known for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. Also, Beijing is famous for The Forbidden City. Brussels is well known for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles.

How is Beijing different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Beijing 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 Beijing that are not to be missed. The city is filled with iconic landmarks including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and The Temple of Heaven. It's also essential that you plan a trip outside of town to the world renowned Great Wall of China. The trip takes about an hour and you can organize a tour through almost any hotel or tour company.

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 Beijing or Brussels? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Beijing 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 Beijing, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city has a number of iconic dishes that have put it on the culinary map. The most notable dish is Peking Duck, which is a delectable crispy roast duck that is usually served with cucumber, scallions, sweet bean sauce and pancakes or other steamed buns. Hot pots are another must-try experience in the city, and, of course, you have to experience the dumplings. A huge part of a visit to Beijing is experiencing its long running culinary history.

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 Beijing or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

Beijing is well known for nightlife. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Beijing is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Live performances are popular in the city, and range from concerts to magic shows and acrobatics. There is also an active bar scene around town. Some of the most popular nightlife areas include Sanlitun and Houhai.

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 Beijing or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

Brussels is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Beijing 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.

Beijing does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Beijing or Brussels?

Brussels is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Brussels is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Beijing. There are many unique handicrafts that you can purchase around town. Popular souvenirs include silk, pearls, and snuff bottles with pictures inside. The city has many shopping streets as well as markets and shopping malls that are worth visiting.

Is Beijing or Brussels More Beautiful?

Beijing is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Brussels is not a destination known for its beauty.

Beijing is a gorgeous place to visit. The parks, gardens, palaces, and temples all offer a glimpse into the past, while also letting you enjoy the city and culture that exists today.

Brussels is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Beijing or Brussels Better for Families?

Brussels is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Brussels is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Beijing offers lots of family activities. The city offers a unique cultural immersion that kids and adults can enjoy. Wander through the Forbidden City or watch your kids be mesmerized by a Chinese acrobatics show. It's also fun to get lost in the Hutongs or test their culinary palates by visiting a snack street.

Is Beijing or Brussels Better for Couples?

Brussels is a great destination for couples. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Brussels frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Beijing is a nice destination for couples. The culture, history, and food all make this a stunning place to visit. While romance doesn't immediately spring to mind when you think of Beijing, there are shows and fine dining restaurants that couples will enjoy. There are also many luxury hotels with spas and other amenities.

Is Beijing or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Beijing and Brussels are very good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Beijing is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city has many hostels and budget-friendly options. There isn't the backpacker community vibe that you may get in other Asian cities, but if you organize an excursion through your hostel, you're sure to make a few friends along the way.

Brussels is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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 Beijing or Brussels Better for Students?

Beijing and Brussels are very good places to visit for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Beijing. Students will enjoy the culture, food, and academic opportunities that the universities offer. There is also a decent nightlife scene and affordable places where students can live.

Many students visit 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.

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

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

Visitors in Brussels can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Beijing. The system can be crowded and confusing at first, but it's one of the most convenient and affordable ways to get around town. There's a subway system as well as buses, trolleybuses, and suburban rail.

Is Beijing or Brussels a more walkable city?

Brussels is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Beijing is a city with minimal options for its walkability.

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

Beijing is generally not a very walkable city. While parts of the city are fun to explore on foot, the city itself is very large with long blocks that aren't pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Beijing?

How long in Beijing or Brussels?

In either Beijing or Brussels, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Beijing than Brussels because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Beijing, and 1-5 days is enough time in Brussels.

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

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

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

One day in Beijing or Brussels?

Beijing 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 Beijing or Brussels?

Beijing is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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.

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 Beijing or Brussels?

Beijing is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Beijing, 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 Beijing or Brussels?

Beijing 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 Beijing has to offer. This 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 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Belgium, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Belgium.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Beijing or Brussels?

Beijing has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Brussels. When comparing the sizes of Beijing 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 Beijing or Brussels?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Beijing or Brussels in the Summer?

Both Brussels and Beijing are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Beijing this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Brussels for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Beijing is a little warmer than Brussels. Typically, the summer temperatures in Beijing in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Brussels averages at about 18°C (65°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beijing. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during summer. Beijing gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 186 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Beijing. In July, Beijing usually receives more rain than Brussels. Beijing gets 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Beijing or Brussels in the Autumn?

Both Brussels and Beijing during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Beijing for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Brussels in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Beijing is generally a little warmer than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Beijing average around 14°C (56°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Beijing. In the autumn, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Brussels. Beijing gets 227 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 114 hours of full sun.

Beijing usually gets less rain in October than Brussels. Beijing gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beijing or Brussels in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Beijing and Brussels. Many visitors come to Beijing in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. 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. Beijing can get quite cold in the winter. Beijing is much colder than Brussels in the winter. The daily temperature in Beijing averages around -4°C (26°F) in January, and Brussels fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In Beijing, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during winter. Beijing gets 201 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 49 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Beijing usually receives less rain than Brussels. Beijing gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Beijing or Brussels in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Beijing as well as Brussels. Most visitors come to Beijing for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Brussels because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Beijing is a little warmer than Brussels. Typically, the spring temperatures in Beijing in April average around 14°C (57°F), and Brussels averages at about 10°C (49°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beijing this time of the year. In the spring, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Brussels. Beijing gets 247 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 147 hours of full sun.

Beijing usually gets less rain in April than Brussels. Beijing gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Brussels and Beijing