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

Should you visit Bruges or Toulouse?

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 Toulouse. 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. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Toulouse

Toulouse is a vibrant, friendly, and relaxed city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Bruges and Toulouse: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bruges or Toulouse?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Toulouse than Bruges. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Toulouse is very popular for its food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Bruges attracts visitors for its historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Bruges is more touristy than Toulouse and is known for its scenic old town, charming streets, local chocolate, and unique Christmas market. Toulouse is famous for its impressive old town, many museums, and delicious local cuisine. It is also well known for Basilique Saint-Sernin.

How is Bruges different from Toulouse?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Toulouse offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There is a long running history with countless landmarks and museums. Highlights include Basilique Saint-Sernin, Place du Capitole, Muséum de Toulouse, and Fondation Bemberg.

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

Toulouse 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 Toulouse, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. There are many unique regional recipes that make use of poultry, cold meats, and foie gras. Toulouse sausage, cassoulet, Poulet à la Toulousaine, and Foie gras d’oie are all popular local dishes.

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 Toulouse Better for Nightlife?

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

Many people head to Toulouse for the nightlife scene. You'll find a large number of students in town so the nightlife scene is active and fun. For the most lively atmosphere head to Carmes, Saint-Cyprien, or Place Saint-Pierre.

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 Toulouse Better for its Old Town?

Bruges is a must-visit destination for its historic old town charm. Also, Toulouse is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town.

The rich history of Bruges can be explored in its historical center. 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 Toulouse. The old town is filled with terra-cota buildings and pedestrian walkways. The area flows out around the Capitole and is crossed by the Garonne.

Is the Shopping Better in Bruges or Toulouse?

Toulouse 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 Toulouse. There are many great shopping districts around town including Place du Capitole, The Saint Georges district, and Rue Alsace Lorraine.

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 Toulouse Better for Families?

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

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Toulouse. The city's known for its space industry so the La Cite de l’Espace (Space Museum) is a favorite attraction for kids and adults alike. You can also visit Aeroscopia, the airplane museum. La Halle de la machine is a truly unique and impressive playground. The city also has many other museums and outdoor spaces to explore.

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 Toulouse Better for Couples?

Bruges and Toulouse both very good destinations for a couple.

Bruges is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Toulouse is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many beautiful parks, gardens, and walking paths. Make sure you take a stroll along the Canal du Midi and visit Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis. This is also a great city for visiting a spa.

Is Bruges or Toulouse Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bruges is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Toulouse is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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.

Toulouse is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a major stop off for many backpackers in Europe so you won't find as many hostels as you do in other cities.

Is Bruges or Toulouse Better for Students?

Toulouse is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Bruges is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Toulouse. You'll find a diverse student population with many international students.

Bruges is not popular with students.

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

Bruges and Toulouse both offer nice 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.

Toulouse has a few public transit options. There are a large number of bus routes that travel both locally and regionally.

Is Bruges or Toulouse a more walkable city?

Bruges is a must-visit destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Toulouse is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its 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.

Toulouse is very walkable. Within the city center it is very walkable and easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Toulouse or Bruges?

How long in Bruges or Toulouse?

It's fun to spend time in either Bruges or Toulouse. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Toulouse due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bruges, and 2-4 days is enough time in Toulouse.

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

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

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

One day in Bruges or Toulouse?

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 Toulouse. 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 Toulouse?

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.

Toulouse is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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 Toulouse?

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 Toulouse. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Bruges or Toulouse?

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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Toulouse. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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 comparing the travel costs between Bruges and Toulouse, we can see that Toulouse 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 Bruges Expensive? and Is Toulouse Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bruges or Toulouse?

Toulouse has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Bruges. When comparing the sizes of Bruges and Toulouse, 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 Toulouse?

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 Toulouse in the Summer?

Both Toulouse and Bruges are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Bruges for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Toulouse because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Bruges is cooler than Toulouse in the summer. The daily temperature in Bruges averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Toulouse fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

It's quite sunny in Toulouse. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bruges. Bruges usually receives less sunshine than Toulouse during summer. Bruges gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Toulouse receives 275 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bruges usually receives more rain than Toulouse. Bruges gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bruges or Toulouse in the Autumn?

Both Toulouse and Bruges during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Bruges because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Toulouse this time of year.

In the autumn, Bruges is cooler than Toulouse. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bruges in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Toulouse averages at about 15°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Bruges often gets less sunshine than Toulouse. Bruges gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulouse receives 161 hours of full sun.

Bruges usually gets more rain in October than Toulouse. Bruges gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bruges or Toulouse in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bruges and Toulouse. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bruges this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Toulouse for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Bruges in the winter. In January, Bruges is generally much colder than Toulouse. Daily temperatures in Bruges average around 3°C (38°F), and Toulouse fluctuates around 6°C (44°F).

Bruges usually receives less sunshine than Toulouse during winter. Bruges gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Toulouse receives 88 hours of full sun in the winter.

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

Should I visit Bruges or Toulouse in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Bruges as well as Toulouse. Many travelers come to Bruges for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Toulouse in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Bruges is cooler than Toulouse in the spring. The daily temperature in Bruges averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and Toulouse fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Bruges often gets less sunshine than Toulouse. Bruges gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulouse receives 178 hours of full sun.

Bruges usually gets less rain in April than Toulouse. Bruges gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Toulouse and Bruges