A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Brussels vs. Alesund for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Brussels or Alesund?

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 Brussels and Alesund. 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.

Brussels

Brussels is a cosmopolitan, authentic, and colorful city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Brussels travel costs.

Alesund

Alesund is a friendly, scenic, and laid back city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Alesund is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Alesund travel costs.

Brussels and Alesund: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brussels or Alesund?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Brussels. Although Brussels and Alesund are both popular with visitors, Brussels has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Brussels is more popular for its museums and attractions, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Alesund is known for its impressive beauty. Brussels is popular for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. It is also home to La Grand Place (Grote Markt). Alesund is popular for its nouveau architecture, beautiful views, and access to the fjords.

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Brussels different from Alesund?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Brussels or Alesund?

Brussels is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Brussels offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Popular sights include Saint-Michel Cathedral, Place Royale, and the Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts. The city is filled with impressive architecture, fascinating art museums, and innovative science and technology museums.

Alesund offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Check out the Atlantic Sea-Park and the Sunnmøre Museum. Also visit the small but interesting Fisheries Museum & Ålesund Museum.

Is the Food Better in Brussels or Alesund? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at superb restaurants in both Brussels and Alesund.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Brussels makes for a great culinary experience. While the city is most known for its waffles and fries, the diversity of dishes and international restaurant selection continues to grow. There are Lebanese, Japanese, and Indian restaurants among others. Popular local dishes include moules-frites, waterzooi (a stew), and stoemp (made with mashed potatoes and vegetables).

Alesund has a huge number of terrific restaurants. As Norway's largest fishing port, you'll find plenty of seafood offerings around town. A favorite is bacalao de noruega (dried and salted clipfish), but also make sure you try the lobster soup.

Is Brussels or Alesund Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Brussels and Alesund.

Brussels has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city's nightlife is quieter and more mellow than some other major cities around Europe. That doesn't mean there aren't plenty of dance clubs and bars where you can hang out. Keep your wits about you after the sun goes down as some areas are a bit rougher than others.

If you're looking for night time activities Alesund has a few options to choose from. There are plenty of bars around town as well as nightclubs and live music venues.

Is Brussels or Alesund Better for its Old Town?

Brussels is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Alesund does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Brussels. The old town in the city center is where you'll find the greatest concentration of historic sights. The area is surrounded by tree-lined boulevards and is easy to explore.

Alesund does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Alesund?

Brussels is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Brussels is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Although it's famous for diamonds, the city also has many shopping streets where you can find designer brands, vintage shops, and other unique boutiques that are fun to explore.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Alesund. There are a number of shopping streets around town including the shopping areas in Aspøya, which are known for their homemade souvenirs.

Is Brussels or Alesund More Beautiful?

Alesund is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Brussels is not a destination known for its beauty.

Alesund is a gorgeous place to visit. The architecture, viewpoints, and nearby fjords make this a great stop off on any Norwegian adventure.

Brussels is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Brussels or Alesund Better for Families?

Brussels is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Brussels is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of unique kid-friendly activities including a Mini-Europe Museum, a Comic Strip Museum, and Train World. The city is also a chocolate lover's dream with many factories and chocolate shops around town.

Alesund is a family-friendly city. There's an aquarium and several great parks including Tueneset Naturlekeplass, which is near the aquarium. There's also hiking in the area and other outdoor adventures.

Is Brussels or Alesund Better for Couples?

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

Brussels is a very popular place to visit for couples. From beautiful buildings and museums to shopping, dining, and chocolate shops, there are plenty of romantic spots around town. There's a vibrant nightlife scene and many diverse restaurants that couples can enjoy exploring.

Alesund makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a beautiful setting with spectacular views and fun restaurants. There are many great hikes in the area, and many visitors like to use this town as a base for exploring nearby places.

Is Brussels or Alesund Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Alesund is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Brussels. The city has an active nightlife and a number of hostels that are great for backpackers, but do take note that some areas can get a bit rough at night, so make sure you understand where you are.

Alesund is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a limited number of hostels in town so apartments may be the best option for backpackers. It's also hard to get around the region without a car.

Is Brussels or Alesund Better for Students?

Brussels is a well-known place for students. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Brussels is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.

Plenty of students visit Alesund. There's a small student population, which means that the group stays close and everyone is very welcoming. The town also makes a great base for exploring this part of Norway.

Is Brussels or Alesund Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Brussels is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Brussels can get you around easily. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

Alesund has some public transit options. There is a public bus system around town.

Is Brussels or Alesund a more walkable city?

Brussels is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

Brussels is very walkable. If you stay in the historical area, it's easy to walk around and many boulevards are being converted to pedestrian areas.

Alesund is a somewhat walkable place. The city center can be explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Brussels Worth Visiting? and Is Alesund Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Alesund or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Alesund?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Brussels and Alesund. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Brussels than in Alesund. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Brussels, and 2-3 days is enough time in Alesund.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Brussels than Alesund 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 Brussels.

One day in Brussels or Alesund?

Because Brussels is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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.

The city of Alesund offers food and shopping. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Brussels or Alesund?

Because Brussels is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Brussels has to offer.

Alesund 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Alesund, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Brussels or Alesund?

Brussels is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Brussels has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Alesund 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.

A week in Brussels or Alesund?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brussels. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Brussels. 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.

Alesund is a great place to explore. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Belgium, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Belgium, The Best Tours for Seniors to Norway, and The Best Contiki Tours to Norway.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Brussels or Alesund?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Alesund. When comparing the sizes of Brussels and Alesund, 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 Brussels or Alesund?

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 Brussels or Alesund in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Alesund. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Brussels this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Alesund for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Brussels is a little warmer than Alesund in the summer. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 18°C (65°F) in July, and Alesund fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In July, Brussels usually receives less rain than Alesund. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Brussels or Alesund in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Brussels as well as Alesund. Many travelers come to Brussels for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, many visitors come to Alesund in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Brussels is a little warmer than Alesund. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Brussels in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Alesund averages at about 9°C (48°F).

It's quite rainy in Alesund. Brussels usually gets less rain in October than Alesund. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 188 mm (7.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Alesund in the Winter?

Both Alesund and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Brussels in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Alesund for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Alesund can be very cold during winter. Brussels can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Brussels is generally a little warmer than Alesund. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 3°C (38°F), and Alesund fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Alesund. In January, Brussels usually receives less rain than Alesund. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Brussels or Alesund in the Spring?

Both Alesund and Brussels during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Brussels for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Alesund because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

The weather in Alesund can be very cold. Brussels is much warmer than Alesund in the spring. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 10°C (49°F) in April, and Alesund fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

Brussels usually gets less rain in April than Alesund. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Alesund and Brussels