A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Belfast vs. Lucerne for Nightlife, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Belfast or Lucerne?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Belfast or Lucerne, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Belfast

Belfast is a authentic, affordable, and under-rated city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the nightlife and shopping.

Lucerne

Lucerne is a cultural, historic, and vibrant city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Belfast and Lucerne: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Belfast or Lucerne?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Lucerne than Belfast. While Belfast is larger than Lucerne, Lucerne has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lucerne is more touristy than Belfast and is popular for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips. Also, Lucerne is famous for The Chapel Bridge. Belfast is well known for being the birthplace of the Titanic and the location of the era of the "Troubles".

The Chapel Bridge
The Chapel Bridge

How is Belfast different from Lucerne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Belfast or Lucerne?

Belfast
Lucerne

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

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Lucerne can be an interesting and educational experience. Top sights in town include the famous Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument and the town walls and towers. There are also a number of museums including the Swiss Transport Museum and Museum Sammlung Rosengart.

Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Belfast or Lucerne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Belfast
Lucerne

Lucerne is a nice place to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Belfast is not a good city for its restaurants.

Lucerne offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Food is expensive around town, but there are some unique specialties like fondue, brätwurst, and of course, chocolate. It's nice to sit out by the river and enjoy a hearty meal while you soak up the view.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Belfast. While many restaurants have moved towards more modern cuisines, there are still places that hold tight to the traditions of the area. Traditional dishes include pasties, full Irish breakfasts, and oysters.

Is Belfast or Lucerne Better for Nightlife?

Belfast
Lucerne

Lucerne is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Lucerne offers plenty to do in the evening. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland, with many lively clubs, bars, and pubs. There are also many local events that are hosted in town and bring in a crowd.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Belfast. The city has a number of bars and clubs with local DJs or musicians.

Is Belfast or Lucerne Better for its Old Town?

Belfast
Lucerne

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

Many visitors go to Lucerne to see the historical old town. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

Belfast does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Belfast or Lucerne?

Belfast
Lucerne

Lucerne is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Lucerne is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city is filled with high end shopping opportunities with everything from boutique shops to major chains. Popular items to purchase in town include chocolate, watches, jewelry, and Swiss army knives.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Belfast. The main shopping areas in the city are Victoria Square Shopping Centre and CastleCourt.

Is Belfast or Lucerne Better for Families?

Belfast
Lucerne

Belfast and Lucerne are both notable destinations for the whole family.

Belfast is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has several great kid-friendly museums, a zoo, and a few indoor or outdoor activity centers where you can let kids play and explore.

Lucerne is a family-friendly city. The city is filled with history and there are a number of playgrounds around town. Also make sure you pop in a chocolate shop so that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. If the weather's warm, you can also take a swim in Lake Lucerne. Many kids enjoy escaping the city and doing a day trip to the amazing Mt. Titlis, or other peaks that are nearby.

Is Belfast or Lucerne Better for Couples?

Belfast
Lucerne

Lucerne is a well-known place for romance. However, Belfast is not a good city for its romantic activities.

Lucerne is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city has many pleasant squares, excellent restaurants, and a romantic atmosphere that makes for a great couple's getaway. There are a number of nice hotels to choose from as well.

Most people don't think of Belfast as a couple's destination. There are gardens and parks to explore, several nice hotels with spas, and an Observatory on the 23rd floor of the Grand Central Hotel.


Is Belfast or Lucerne Better for Students?

Belfast
Lucerne

Belfast is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for students.

It's common for students to visit Belfast. The city's affordability has made it a popular option for international students headed to the area.

Lucerne is a decent spot for students. Most people don't think of the city as a student town but there are some good opportunities for international students. The prices are high, but the city is surrounded by stunning natural beauty that is fun to explore.

Is Belfast or Lucerne Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Belfast
Lucerne

Lucerne is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Belfast is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Lucerne has a few public transit options. There's a comprehensive system of buses around town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Belfast. There is a bus service in the city.

Is Belfast or Lucerne a more walkable city?

Belfast
Lucerne

Belfast and Lucerne both are notable when exploring on foot.

Belfast is somewhat walkable.

Lucerne is a somewhat walkable place. The major tourist areas are fairly walkable if your hotel is in a convenient location.


For even more information, also check out Is Belfast Worth Visiting? and Is Lucerne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lucerne or Belfast?

How long in Belfast or Lucerne?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Belfast and Lucerne. In our opinion, Lucerne has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Lucerne than Belfast. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lucerne than Belfast 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 Lucerne.


  • How many days in Belfast or Lucerne? Ideal Length of Stay
    Belfast 1-3 
    Lucerne 1-3

One day in Belfast or Lucerne?

In Belfast, you'll find nightlife and 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.

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

In Belfast, you'll find shopping and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Belfast has to offer.

In Lucerne, 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 Lucerne has to offer.

Five days in Belfast or Lucerne?

Belfast is a great place to explore. 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.

Lucerne 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 Belfast or Lucerne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Belfast. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Belfast. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lucerne. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Lucerne. 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 Budget Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Lucerne or Belfast?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Belfast is £133, while the average daily cost in Lucerne is £172. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Belfast and Lucerne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Belfast £68
    Lucerne £110
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Belfast £136
    Lucerne £220
Compare Hotels in Belfast and Lucerne

Looking for a hotel in Belfast or Lucerne? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Belfast


Hotels in Lucerne


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Belfast Hotel Prices and Lucerne Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Belfast £14
    Lucerne £10

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Belfast

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Belfast:

  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Dublin Airport: $294
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Derrygonnelly: $286
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Belcoo: $286
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Bellanaleck: $268
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Kinawley: $264
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Lisnarick: $259
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Ballinamallard: $248
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Castlederg: $248
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Lisnaskea: $243
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Maguiresbridge: $243
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Tempo: $241
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Newtownbutler: $236

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lucerne

Also for Lucerne, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Bad Ragaz Resorts to Zurich Airport ZRH - Departure Transfer: $126
  • Private Transfer from Lucerne to Zurich English Speaking Driver: $134
  • Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Bad Ragaz Resorts - Round-Trip Transfer: $251
  • From Canyoning in Interlaken w/ Return Transfer: $257
  • Rafting in Interlaken with Return Transfer from Lucerne: $257
  • Private Transfer from Lucerne to Zurich Airport: $284
  • Lucerne City to Zurich City One-Way Private Transfer : $300
  • Private transfer from Zurich airport to Lucerne: $547
  • LAUTERBRUNNEN Private Transfer from Zurich Airport: $722
  • INTERLAKEN Private Transfer from Zurich Airport: $744

Is it cheaper to fly into Belfast or Lucerne?

Prices for flights to both Lucerne and Belfast change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Belfast £51
    Lucerne £50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Belfast

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Belfast.

  • Guided Craft Beer and Street Food Tour: $81
  • Belfast Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $108

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lucerne

For Lucerne, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Swiss Alps: Traditional Swiss Fondue Cooking Class: $82
  • Lake Candlelight Dinner Cruise: $141
  • From Zurich: 2-Day Mt.Titlis including 4-course dinner: $547

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Belfast £18
    Lucerne £27
Typical Entertainment Prices in Belfast

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Belfast are as follows:


  • Movie Tickets
    £8.00

Tours and Activities in Belfast

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Belfast are as follows:

  • Belfast A Music and StreetArt Experience. Small Gr Walking Tour : $25
  • Belfast The Troubles cab tour Adventure 2hrs personal guide : $113
  • Historical Private Tour in Belfast : $76
  • 2 Hour Fungi Experience in Belfast: $62
  • 2 hour Private Political History & Murals Tour Belfast: $70
  • 2 hours Belfast Original Drivers The Troubles Black Taxi Tour: $92
  • 3 Hour extended Murals Tour: $101
  • A History of Terror - Belfast City Centre Walking Tour : $28
  • Antrim Coast Carrickfergus and Gobbins Cliff Experience: $437
  • Award winners Express 2 hrs Black Taxi tours and Mural Taxi Tour: $158
  • Belfast Black Taxi Tour of Murals and Peace Walls 2 hours: $114
  • Belfast Famous Black taxi political mural peace wall tour 2 hour: $125

Typical Entertainment Prices in Lucerne

For Lucerne, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • 1 Day Bicycle Rental
    £27
  • The Swiss Transport Museum Entrance Fee
    £28

Tours and Activities in Lucerne

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Lucerne.

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Revealing Self-Guided Reading City Tour: $5.47
  • Smartphone walking tour - cool Lucerne old town: $5.47
  • Walking Tour - Around the Old Town Lucerne: $5.60
  • The Lives and Legends of A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Lucerne Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.42
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Revealing Self-Guided Audio City Tour: $11
  • Porrentruy Secret Tour: $13
  • Scavenger Hunt and Self-guided Walking Tour: $15
  • Swiss Chocolate Adventure Experience: $20
  • Guided Walking Tour with an Official Guide: $27

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Belfast £7.86
    Lucerne £18

Sample the Local Flavors in Belfast

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Belfast:

  • Pub Crawl and Bar Walking Tour with Two Drinks: $15
  • Belfast Pub Crawl: $15
  • Explore & Taste: Distillery Tour at Titanic Distillers: $32
  • Belfast Giant's Causeway and Titanic Distillery Whiskey Tour: $69
  • VIP Skip-the Line Titanic Museum and Distillery Tasting Tour: $119

Sample the Local Flavors in Lucerne

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Lucerne:

  • 3 Hour Unique Wine Tour - Half Day in Swiss Alps: $166
  • Lake Lucerne Region Wine Tasting: $273


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

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


Which is Bigger, Belfast or Lucerne?

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

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 Belfast or Lucerne in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Belfast as well as Lucerne. Many travelers come to Belfast for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Lucerne in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Belfast is generally cooler than Lucerne. Daily temperatures in Belfast average around 15°C (59°F), and Lucerne fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lucerne. In the summer, Belfast often gets less sunshine than Lucerne. Belfast gets 151 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lucerne receives 241 hours of full sun.

Belfast usually gets less rain in July than Lucerne. Belfast gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Belfast 15°C (59°F) 
    Lucerne 21°C (70°F)

Should I visit Belfast or Lucerne in the Autumn?

Both Lucerne and Belfast are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Belfast in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Lucerne for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Belfast is cooler than Lucerne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Belfast averages around 9°C (48°F) in October, and Lucerne fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Belfast usually receives less sunshine than Lucerne during autumn. Belfast gets 92 hours of sunny skies, while Lucerne receives 120 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Belfast usually receives more rain than Lucerne. Belfast gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Belfast 9°C (48°F) 
    Lucerne 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Belfast or Lucerne in the Winter?

Both Lucerne and Belfast during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Belfast for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Lucerne because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Lucerne can be very cold. Belfast can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Belfast is a little warmer than Lucerne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Belfast in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Lucerne averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Belfast often gets less sunshine than Lucerne. Belfast gets 50 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lucerne receives 55 hours of full sun.

Belfast usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Lucerne. Belfast gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Belfast 4°C (39°F) 
    Lucerne 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Belfast or Lucerne in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Belfast and Lucerne. The spring months attract visitors to Belfast because of the activities around the city. Furthermore, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Lucerne this time of year.

In April, Belfast is generally cooler than Lucerne. Daily temperatures in Belfast average around 8°C (46°F), and Lucerne fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Belfast usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Lucerne during spring. Belfast gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Lucerne receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Belfast usually receives less rain than Lucerne. Belfast gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Belfast 8°C (46°F) 
    Lucerne 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Lucerne and Belfast

Belfast Lucerne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 50 mm (2 in) 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (2 in) 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Aug 15°C (59°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 9°C (48°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)