A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Belfast vs. New York City for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Belfast or New York City?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Belfast or New York City, 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 affordable, under-rated, and authentic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include nightlife and shopping.

New York City

New York City is a cosmopolitan, one-of-a-kind, and vibrant city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Belfast and New York City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Belfast or New York City?

Travelers will usually find more to do in New York City than Belfast, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. New York City is more touristy than Belfast and is popular for its high-reaching skyscrapers, iconic landmarks, world-class theater scene, and endless energy. It is also home to The Statue of Liberty. Belfast is popular for being the birthplace of the Titanic and the location of the era of the "Troubles".

How is Belfast different from New York City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between New York City 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 New York City?

New York City is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. However, Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in New York City that are not to be missed. The sights and museums around the city are too numerous to list, but some of the most famous include the Statue of Liberty, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. This is a city that is filled with iconic landmarks and you could spend weeks here and still not see it all.

Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Belfast or New York City Better for Theater?

New York City is an unbeatable place for theatre. However, Belfast is not a theatre destination.

Famous for its theaters and plays, you'll find world-renowned shows in New York City. Visiting Broadway is a quintessential NYC experience. Whether you enjoy the theater or simply want to experience something new, seeing a Broadway show is a true bucket list activity.

Belfast is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Belfast or New York City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

New York City is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Belfast is not a good city for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, New York City is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city has a diverse variety of restaurants, with everything from local dives to Michelin star options. There are many neighborhoods that are notable for their ethnic cuisine, particularly Little Italy and Chinatown. Quintessential NYC dishes include NYC pizza, NYC hot dogs, bagels, and Chinese dim sum.

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 New York City Better for Nightlife?

New York City is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in New York City is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Known as the city that never sleeps, you can be assured that NYC has some of the best nightlife in the world. There are world class bars and clubs, but also local venues that have a more relaxed atmosphere. Several famous clubs include Paul's Cocktail Lounge, Le Bain, and Avant Gardner.

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 New York City Better for Music?

New York City is an unbeatable place for live music. However, Belfast is not a live music destination.

New York City is a world class music destination. Popular music venues include Music Hall of Williamsburg, Radio City Music Hall, Beacon Theatre, and Forest Hills Stadium.

Belfast is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Belfast or New York City?

New York City is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

New York City is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Head for Fifth Avenue for high end shopping or check out any of the many street markets for local items. New York is known for its many flea markets where you can find vintage items at a good price. And if you're looking to pick up a souvenir shirt or knick knack, there are plenty of souvenir shops around town as well.

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 New York City Better for Christmas?

New York City is an unbeatable place for its Christmas activities. However, Belfast does not offer Christmas activities.

New York City is a world class destination during the Christmas season. Christmas in the city is a quintessential experience. From the Christmas tree and ice skating at Rockefeller Center to seeing a live performance of the Nutcracker, everyone enjoys the holidays in New York.

Belfast does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Belfast or New York City Better for Christmas Markets?

New York City is a well-known place for its Christmas markets. However, Belfast does not offer Christmas markets.

New York City has a large number of Christmas markets. There are a number of Christmas markets that pop up around town during the holiday season. Nothing will get you more in the holiday spirit than wandering these unique venues.

Belfast does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Belfast or New York City Better for Families?

New York City is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

New York City is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has many activities for kids of all ages including world class museums, beautifully designed playgrounds, and theater shows designed just for young ones. There are many kid-friendly restaurants as well and older kids will enjoy visiting the iconic landmarks in this world-class city.

Belfast is a family-friendly city. 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.

Is Belfast or New York City Better for Couples?

New York City is an unbeatable place for romance. However, Belfast is not a good city for its romantic activities.

New York City has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. From a beautiful carriage ride through Central Park, to a romantic river cruise at night, there is an endless list of unique activities that couples can enjoy in the city. Whether you're interested in theater, the arts, music, or nightlife, this city has it all.

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 New York City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

New York City is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Belfast is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit New York City. It isn't a particularly budget-friendly destination, but it does get its share of backpackers, so you'll find a nice list of hostels and affordable hangouts that are perfect for the backpacker crowd. This is probably one of the most popular cities for backpackers in the entire United States.

Belfast is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a reasonably affordable destination with a few hostels to choose from, but most backpackers don't make their way to this city.

Is Belfast or New York City Better for Students?

New York City is an unbeatable place for students. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

New York City is a great destination for students. The city has a diverse population, and international students will feel right at home here exploring the city. There are also plenty of major universities including NYU, Columbia University, and Cornell University.

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

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

New York City is an unbeatable place for its public transit. However, Belfast is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in New York City can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The city has one of the largest subway systems in the world. There's also an elaborate bus system, ferry system, and yellow taxis all around town.

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

Is Belfast or New York City a more walkable city?

New York City is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around New York City on foot. The majority of the neighborhoods in Manhattan are very walkable and easy to explore on foot. Most people prefer not to drive here as it can be overwhelming and chaotic.

Belfast is a somewhat walkable place.

For even more information, also check out Is Belfast Worth Visiting? and Is New York City Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in New York City or Belfast?

How long in Belfast or New York City?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in New York City 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 New York City.

One day in Belfast or New York City?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the under-rated destination of Belfast. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Because New York City is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Belfast or New York City?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Belfast. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Because New York City is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Belfast or New York City?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the under-rated destination of Belfast. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days 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.

New York City is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that New York City has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Belfast or New York City?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the city of Belfast. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in New York City. Because New York City is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Belfast or New York City?

New York City has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Belfast. When comparing the sizes of Belfast and New York City, 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 New York City?

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 New York City in the Summer?

Both New York City and Belfast during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Belfast for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to New York City in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Belfast is much colder than New York City in the summer. The daily temperature in Belfast averages around 15°C (59°F) in July, and New York City fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

New York City gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Belfast usually gets less rain in July than New York City. Belfast gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while New York City receives 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Belfast or New York City in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Belfast and New York City. Many visitors come to Belfast in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to New York City for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Belfast is much colder than New York City. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Belfast in October average around 9°C (48°F), and New York City averages at about 57°F (14°C).

In October, Belfast usually receives more rain than New York City. Belfast gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while New York City receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Belfast or New York City in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Belfast as well as New York City. Most visitors come to Belfast for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to New York City because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

The weather in New York City can be very cold. Belfast can be very cold during winter. In January, Belfast is generally much warmer than New York City. Daily temperatures in Belfast average around 4°C (39°F), and New York City fluctuates around 31°F (-1°C).

Belfast usually gets less rain in January than New York City. Belfast gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while New York City receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Belfast or New York City in the Spring?

Both New York City and Belfast are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Belfast because of the activities around the city. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to New York City this time of year.

Belfast is cooler than New York City in the spring. The daily temperature in Belfast averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and New York City fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

In April, Belfast usually receives less rain than New York City. Belfast gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while New York City receives 3.8 inches (98 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for New York City and Belfast