A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bruges vs. Barcelona for Nightlife, Old Town, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Bruges or Barcelona?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Bruges and Barcelona. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Bruges

Bruges is a charming, historic, and cultural city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a colorful, laid-back, and historic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Bruges and Barcelona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bruges or Barcelona?

You'll generally find more things to do in Barcelona than Bruges. Barcelona is bigger than Bruges, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Barcelona is better known for its nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Bruges is more popular for its historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Bruges is well known for its scenic old town, charming streets, local chocolate, and unique Christmas market. Barcelona is well known for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. Also, Barcelona is famous for Basilica Sagrada Familia.

How is Bruges different from Barcelona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bruges or Barcelona?

You'll find a number of very good museums and attractions in both Barcelona and Bruges.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Bruges. The city is filled with charming hidden corners as well as notable landmarks. The main square is Bruges' Markt which is where you'll find the the Belfry Tower. Other must-see sights include the Historium, Groeninge Museum, the Town Hall, and Brugse Vrije Museum.

Barcelona offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.

Is the Food Better in Bruges or Barcelona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Bruges and Barcelona offer very good local cuisine and restaurants.

Bruges has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. From its world class breweries to its famous chocolate shops, there is plenty to eat and drink around town. In the old town prices can be a bit high, but the dishes and atmosphere are great. Popular local dishes include Belgian waffles, fries, mussels, and beef stew.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Barcelona makes for a great culinary experience. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.

Is Bruges or Barcelona Better for Nightlife?

Barcelona is very popular for its evening party scene. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Barcelona is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Bruges. It's famous for its beer and breweries, so you'll find a number of places to gather in the evening. There is a lack of nightclubs, so if dancing and partying hard is your style, then this may not be your place. The vibes are generally chill and relaxed at night. Most places are concentrated around old town or near Kuipersstraat or Zilverstraat.

Is Bruges or Barcelona Better for Music?

Barcelona is very popular for its music scene. However, Bruges is not a live music destination.

Barcelona has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

Bruges is not a live music destination.

Is Bruges or Barcelona Better for Beaches?

Barcelona is a good destination for the beach. However, Bruges is not a beach destination.

Barcelona offers a nice beach destination. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.

Bruges is not a beach destination.

Is Bruges or Barcelona Better for its Old Town?

Bruges is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its old town.

The old town of Bruges is one of the most recognized in the world. The old town is the main attraction, with its quaint cobblestone streets and beautiful brick architecture.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Barcelona. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.

Is the Shopping Better in Bruges or Barcelona?

Barcelona is very popular for its shopping areas. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many people travel to Barcelona specifically to go shopping. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

Bruges is a great destination for shopping. The city offers plenty of shopping, whether you're looking for souvenirs, trendy European brands, or local items. It's more geared towards tourists than locals, and you want find the same diversity that you get in some of the larger nearby cities, but you'll find unique lace items and other local goods in the old town. The streets around Markt Square, Steenstraat, Geld Monstraat, and Jakobstraat are the main shopping areas.

Is Bruges or Barcelona Better for Families?

Both Bruges and Barcelona are notable family-friendly destinations.

Bruges offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy sampling the unique chocolate around town, eating their fill of waffles, and getting their energy out in the park or at a local playground. There are also canal boat tours and horse drawn carriage rides that are fun for the whole family.

Barcelona is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.

Is Bruges or Barcelona Better for Couples?

Bruges is a well-known place for romance. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Bruges is a very popular place to visit for couples. This romantic city has amazing restaurants, charming streets, and impressive architecture. Couples will enjoy exploring the canals by boat or taking a horse drawn carriage ride through the old town. There are also a number of cute bed and breakfasts where you can stay.

Barcelona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.

Is Bruges or Barcelona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Barcelona is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Barcelona, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Bruges. There are a few good hostels around town. The city sees its share of tourists, but many arrive as part of tours or river boat cruises. If you stay in a hostel, you shouldn't have trouble meeting other young travelers though. There are also plenty of well known breweries where you can gather with friends.

Is Bruges or Barcelona Better for Students?

Barcelona is very popular for its student-friendly activities. However, Bruges is not popular with students.

Barcelona is a very popular place to visit for students. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.

Bruges is not popular with students.

Is Bruges or Barcelona Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Barcelona is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Barcelona. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.

Bruges has a few public transit options. There is a bus system that connects the train station to the old town. Otherwise, the city is best explored on foot.

Is Bruges or Barcelona a more walkable city?

Bruges is renowned for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Bruges on foot. The train station is a short walk from the old town but the city is very walkable and best explored on foot.

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable city. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.

For even more information, also check out Is Bruges Worth Visiting? and Is Barcelona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Barcelona or Bruges?

How long in Bruges or Barcelona?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Barcelona than Bruges 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 Barcelona.

One day in Bruges or Barcelona?

You'll find shopping and museums around the quaint city of Bruges. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bruges has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Barcelona is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Bruges or Barcelona?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the charming destination of Bruges. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Barcelona is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Bruges or Barcelona?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Bruges. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Barcelona. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Bruges or Barcelona?

Bruges is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Barcelona is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Bruges or Barcelona?

Barcelona has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Bruges. When comparing the sizes of Bruges and Barcelona, 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 Bruges or Barcelona?

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 Bruges or Barcelona in the Summer?

Both Barcelona and Bruges during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Bruges for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Barcelona because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Bruges is cooler than Barcelona. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bruges in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Barcelona averages at about 23°C (73°F).

In Barcelona, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Bruges. In the summer, Bruges often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. Bruges gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 308 hours of full sun.

Bruges usually gets more rain in July than Barcelona. Bruges gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bruges or Barcelona in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bruges and Barcelona. The autumn months attract visitors to Bruges because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Barcelona this time of year.

In October, Bruges is generally cooler than Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Bruges average around 12°C (54°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Bruges usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during autumn. Bruges gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 181 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bruges usually receives less rain than Barcelona. Bruges gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bruges or Barcelona in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bruges as well as Barcelona. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bruges this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Barcelona for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Bruges in the winter. Bruges is much colder than Barcelona in the winter. The daily temperature in Bruges averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Barcelona fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the winter, Bruges often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. Bruges gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 146 hours of full sun.

Bruges usually gets more rain in January than Barcelona. Bruges gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bruges or Barcelona in the Spring?

Both Barcelona and Bruges are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Bruges for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Barcelona in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Bruges is much colder than Barcelona. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bruges in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Barcelona averages at about 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Barcelona. Bruges usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during spring. Bruges gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bruges usually receives less rain than Barcelona. Bruges gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Barcelona and Bruges