A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bruges vs. Paris for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Bruges or Paris?

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 Paris. 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 cultural, beautiful, and historic city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Paris

Paris is a iconic, bustling, and energetic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Bruges and Paris: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bruges or Paris?

You'll generally find more things to do in Paris than Bruges. Paris is bigger than Bruges, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Paris is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Bruges is more popular for its historical sights and quaint atmosphere. Bruges is well known for its scenic old town, charming streets, local chocolate, and unique Christmas market. Paris is well known for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. Also, Paris is famous for The Eiffel Tower.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Bruges different from Paris?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paris 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, Paris has many famous sights for visitors. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

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 Bruges or Paris Better for Theater?

Paris is very popular for its shows and theatre. However, Bruges is not a theatre destination.

Paris is considered to be a world-class theater destination. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Bruges is not a theatre destination.

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

Paris 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 Paris, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

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 Paris Better for Nightlife?

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

Paris is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

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 Paris Better for Music?

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

Paris has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Bruges is not a live music destination.

Is Bruges or Paris Better for its Old Town?

Bruges is terrific for its historic old town. However, Paris does not have a historic old town.

Bruges has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The old town is the main attraction, with its quaint cobblestone streets and beautiful brick architecture.

Paris does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Bruges or Paris?

Paris 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 Paris specifically to go shopping. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

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 Paris Better for Christmas?

Paris is very popular for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Bruges does not offer Christmas activities.

With so many activities, Paris is a top place to visit during Christmas. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.

Bruges does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Bruges or Paris Better for Families?

Paris is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Paris is very family-friendly. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

Bruges is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Bruges or Paris Better for Couples?

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

Paris is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

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 Paris Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paris 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 Paris, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

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 Paris Better for Students?

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

Paris is a very popular place to visit for students. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

Bruges is not popular with students.

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

Paris is very popular 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.

Paris has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

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 Paris a more walkable city?

Bruges is terrific for its walkability. Also, Paris is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of 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.

Paris is a very walkable city. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Paris or Bruges?

How long in Bruges or Paris?

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

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

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

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

One day in Bruges or Paris?

In Bruges, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Paris is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Bruges or Paris?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bruges. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Paris 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 Paris?

Bruges is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the quaint destination of Bruges. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paris. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. 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 Paris?

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Bruges. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Paris is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Bruges or Paris?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Bruges. When comparing the sizes of Bruges and Paris, 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 Paris?

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 Paris in the Summer?

Both Paris and Bruges are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bruges this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Paris for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Bruges is cooler than Paris. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bruges in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Paris averages at about 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Paris. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bruges. Bruges usually receives less sunshine than Paris during summer. Bruges gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bruges usually receives more rain than Paris. Bruges gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Paris receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bruges or Paris in the Autumn?

Both Paris and Bruges during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Bruges for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Paris in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Bruges is generally around the same temperature as Paris. Daily temperatures in Bruges average around 12°C (54°F), and Paris fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Bruges often gets less sunshine than Paris. Bruges gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 127 hours of full sun.

Bruges usually gets more rain in October than Paris. Bruges gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bruges or Paris in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bruges and Paris. Many visitors come to Bruges in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Paris for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Paris can be very cold during winter. Bruges can get quite cold in the winter. Bruges is cooler than Paris in the winter. The daily temperature in Bruges averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Paris fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

Bruges usually receives less sunshine than Paris during winter. Bruges gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bruges usually receives around the same amount of rain as Paris. Bruges gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Bruges or Paris in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Bruges as well as Paris. Most visitors come to Bruges for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Paris because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Bruges is cooler than Paris. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bruges in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Paris averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the spring, Bruges often gets less sunshine than Paris. Bruges gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 172 hours of full sun.

Bruges usually gets less rain in April than Paris. Bruges gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Paris receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Paris and Bruges