A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bristol vs. Antwerp for Attractions, Nightlife, Food, and Families

Should you visit Bristol or Antwerp?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Bristol and Antwerp 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.

Bristol

Bristol is a friendly, authentic, and historic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Antwerp

Antwerp is a genuine, cultural, and historical port city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Bristol and Antwerp: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bristol or Antwerp?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Antwerp. Although Bristol and Antwerp are roughly the same size, Antwerp has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bristol is more touristy than Antwerp and is popular for its laid-back atmosphere and progressive environmental policies. Antwerp is popular for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town. It is also home to Antwerpen-Centraal.

How is Bristol different from Antwerp?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bristol or Antwerp?

You'll find a number of superb museums and attractions in both Antwerp and Bristol.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Bristol. The city has some great museums and landmarks such as the SS Great Britain, M Shed, the Clifton Suspension Bridge, and Cabot Tower.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Antwerp. The city has a number of cathedrals, museums, and art galleries that are fun to explore. The history and culture of the town is best experienced by wandering the streets and soaking up the architecture.

Is the Food Better in Bristol or Antwerp? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Bristol and Antwerp can be an enjoyable experience.

Bristol is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find all of the classic British specialties such as bangers and mash or fish and chips. There are many restaurants, markets, and pubs where you can grab a relaxing meal and enjoy the British ambiance.

Antwerp offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. People with a sweet tooth will enjoy the chocolates and biscuits that make this city famous. You'll also find plenty of fries and casual dining options to choose from. Local favorites include mussels and fish and chips, and of course, you must try the beer!

Is Bristol or Antwerp Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is superb in both Bristol and Antwerp.

Many people head to Bristol for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is diverse and inclusive. There are huge clubs that host well known DJs. There is also an underground music scene as well as local bars and even traditional speakeasies. Whether your interest is live jazz or upscale cocktail bars, there really is something for everyone.

Antwerp has plenty to do after the sun goes down. With its large student population and young vibe, you'll find an active nightlife scene around town. Many of the the clubs and bars are concentrated in the docklands, but you'll also find places to hang out everywhere around town.

Is Bristol or Antwerp Better for its Old Town?

Antwerp is great for its historic old town charm. However, Bristol does not have a historic old town.

Antwerp is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old city has a long running history and many unique spots to explore. At the heart of the old town is Grote Markt, which is surrounded by beautiful buildings and cobblestone streets. There are a diversity of restaurants including local cuisines, Italian restaurants, and a number of different ethnic food. You'll also find local chocolate shops, waffle vendors, and ice cream.

Bristol does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Bristol or Antwerp?

Antwerp is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many people travel to Antwerp specifically to go shopping. The city has become known for its fashion scene. The main shopping street is Meir, which is where you'll find a variety of European fashion chains. It's also fun to buy chocolates, art, or other souvenirs around town. You'll find both locals and tourists perusing the main shopping areas around town.

Bristol is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to Clifton Village for the most upscale boutiques or the Bristol Shopping Quarter for a diversity of budgets and brands. Gloucester Street is famous for its independent shops or there are the student neighborhoods of Park Street and the Triangle which have a number of trendy shops.

Is Bristol or Antwerp Better for Families?

Both Bristol and Antwerp are good to visit with kids.

Bristol offers lots of family activities. The city has a number of kid-friendly museums, activities, and playgrounds. For museums, check out the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, the M Shed, or Aerospace Bristol. There are also boat rides and the Bristol Aquarium among other unique activities.

Antwerp is a family-friendly place to visit. Favorite kid-friendly activities around town include taking a ride on the Ferris Wheel, going to the local zoo, or exploring the indoor play area Plopsa Station. Kids will also enjoy exploring the underground canals or taking a boat ride. Chocolate lovers will have fun checking out the many chocolate shops around town.

Is Bristol or Antwerp Better for Couples?

Both Bristol and Antwerp are good destinations for a couple's getaway.

Bristol is a good city for couples to visit. There are romantic restaurants, fun bars, and unique museums that make for a variety of different date options.

Antwerp is a nice destination for couples. The city has a wonderful café culture with great restaurants and beautiful neighborhoods to explore. There are many great restaurants as well as plenty of shopping opportunities.

Is Bristol or Antwerp Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antwerp is a port city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Bristol is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Antwerp is a good port city to visit for backpackers. With a handful of hostels and a variety of free activities, this is an affordable place to visit. It's often overlooked by backpackers so those that visit will be rewarded. It has a vibe of authenticity which is great for backpacker's who are a bit jaded from the tourism scene.

Bristol is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Bristol or Antwerp Better for Students?

Antwerp is great for its student-friendly activities. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Antwerp. There's a good student culture and a lot of activities that give the city a fun and youthful vibe. It's a relatively big city with a lot of transportation connections, so it makes a great base for exploring other areas.

Bristol is a good city to visit for students. It's a small and friendly city with enough diversity that it stays interesting and dynamic.

Is Bristol or Antwerp Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bristol and Antwerp both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Bristol offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Metrobus serves the greater Bristol area.

Antwerp has a few public transit options. There are both tram and bus lines around town. The city also has a large and impressive train station with many connections, making it a good base for exploring other areas.

Is Bristol or Antwerp a more walkable city?

Bristol and Antwerp are superb when it comes to walkability.

Bristol is a very walkable destination. The city center is well designed for walking.

Antwerp is very walkable. The old town can be comfortably explored on foot, particularly the area around Grote Markt.

For even more information, also check out Is Bristol Worth Visiting? and Is Antwerp Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Antwerp or Bristol?

How long in Bristol or Antwerp?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Antwerp than Bristol 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 Antwerp.

One day in Bristol or Antwerp?

In Bristol, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Antwerp, 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 port 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 Bristol or Antwerp?

In Bristol, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Bristol has to offer.

In Antwerp, 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 Antwerp has to offer.

Five days in Bristol or Antwerp?

Bristol 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.

Antwerp 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 Bristol or Antwerp?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bristol. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bristol. 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 Antwerp. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Antwerp. 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to Belgium, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Brussels.

When comparing the travel costs between Bristol and Antwerp, we can see that Antwerp is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Bristol or Antwerp?

Antwerp has a larger population, and is about 7% larger than the population of Bristol. When comparing the sizes of Bristol and Antwerp, 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 Bristol or Antwerp?

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 Bristol or Antwerp in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bristol as well as Antwerp. Many visitors come to Bristol in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Antwerp for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Bristol is generally around the same temperature as Antwerp. Daily temperatures in Bristol average around 18°C (64°F), and Antwerp fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Bristol usually gets less rain in July than Antwerp. Bristol gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bristol or Antwerp in the Autumn?

Both Antwerp and Bristol are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Bristol for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Antwerp because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Bristol is around the same temperature as Antwerp in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bristol averages around 13°C (55°F) in October, and Antwerp fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In October, Bristol usually receives more rain than Antwerp. Bristol gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bristol or Antwerp in the Winter?

Both Antwerp and Bristol during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Bristol because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Antwerp this time of year.

It's quite cold in Antwerp in the winter. In the winter, Bristol is much warmer than Antwerp. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bristol in January average around 6°C (43°F), and Antwerp averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Bristol usually gets more rain in January than Antwerp. Bristol gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bristol or Antwerp in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bristol and Antwerp. The activities around the city are the main draw to Bristol this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Antwerp for the activities around the city.

In April, Bristol is generally a little warmer than Antwerp. Daily temperatures in Bristol average around 10°C (50°F), and Antwerp fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In April, Bristol usually receives less rain than Antwerp. Bristol gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Antwerp and Bristol