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

Should you visit Bruges or Florence?

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 Florence. 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 historic, charming, and historic city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Florence

Florence is a iconic, alluring, and historical city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Bruges and Florence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bruges or Florence?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Florence than Bruges, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Florence is more popular for its museums, food, and shopping, while Bruges is known for its quaint atmosphere. Bruges is popular for its scenic old town, charming streets, local chocolate, and unique Christmas market. Florence is popular for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. It is also home to The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore).

How is Bruges different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Florence 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 Florence?

Florence is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Florence has many famous sights for visitors. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

Bruges offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

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

Florence is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Florence, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Bruges makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Is Bruges or Florence Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is good in both Bruges and Florence.

If you're looking for night time activities Bruges has a few options to choose from. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Florence. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Is Bruges or Florence Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the world-class old town areas in both Bruges and Florence.

Bruges has a world-famous historical area. The old town is the main attraction, with its quaint cobblestone streets and beautiful brick architecture.

The historic old town of Florence is revered around the world. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

Is the Shopping Better in Bruges or Florence?

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Florence. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

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 Florence Better for Families?

Both Bruges and Florence are good 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.

Florence is a family-friendly place to visit. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is Bruges or Florence Better for Couples?

Florence is very popular for couples. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Florence is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

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.

Is Bruges or Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Florence 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 Florence, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

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 Florence Better for Students?

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

Florence is a very popular place to visit for students. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

Bruges is not popular with students.

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

Bruges and Florence both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Bruges offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system that connects the train station to the old town. Otherwise, the city is best explored on foot.

Florence has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system.

Is Bruges or Florence a more walkable city?

Bruges and Florence are world-class when it comes to walkability.

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

It is easy to get around Florence on foot. Most people explore the city on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Florence or Bruges?

How long in Bruges or Florence?

Both Bruges and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Florence than in Bruges. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bruges, and 2-7 days is enough time in Florence.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Florence 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 Florence.

One day in Bruges or Florence?

The beautiful city of Bruges offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Florence. 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 Florence?

Bruges is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bruges, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Florence is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Bruges or Florence?

Bruges is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Florence. 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 Florence?

Bruges is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the alluring destination of Florence. 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 Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bruges and Florence, we can see that Florence 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 Florence would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Florence 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 Florence Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bruges or Florence?

Florence has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Bruges. When comparing the sizes of Bruges and Florence, 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 Florence?

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 Bruges or Florence in the Summer?

Both Florence and Bruges are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Bruges in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Florence for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Bruges is generally cooler than Florence. Daily temperatures in Bruges average around 17°C (63°F), and Florence fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

It's quite sunny in Florence. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bruges. Bruges usually receives less sunshine than Florence during summer. Bruges gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bruges usually receives more rain than Florence. Bruges gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bruges or Florence in the Autumn?

Both Florence and Bruges during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Bruges for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Florence because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Bruges is cooler than Florence in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bruges averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Florence fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Bruges often gets less sunshine than Florence. Bruges gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun.

Bruges usually gets less rain in October than Florence. Bruges gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bruges or Florence in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bruges and Florence. The winter months attract visitors to Bruges because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Florence this time of year.

The weather in Bruges can be very cold. In the winter, Bruges is much colder than Florence. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bruges in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Florence averages at about 7°C (45°F).

Bruges usually receives less sunshine than Florence during winter. Bruges gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bruges usually receives around the same amount of rain as Florence. Bruges gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Bruges or Florence in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Bruges as well as Florence. The natural beauty are the main draw to Bruges this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Florence for the natural beauty.

In April, Bruges is generally much colder than Florence. Daily temperatures in Bruges average around 8°C (47°F), and Florence fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In the spring, Bruges often gets less sunshine than Florence. Bruges gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun.

Bruges usually gets less rain in April than Florence. Bruges gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Florence and Bruges