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

Should you visit Brussels or Annecy?

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 Annecy. 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 authentic, colorful, and multicultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Annecy

Annecy is a breathtaking, quaint, and storybook alpine town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping.

Brussels and Annecy: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brussels or Annecy?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Brussels. Although Brussels and Annecy are popular destinations, Brussels has more sights and attractions for tourists. Brussels is very popular for its museums, shopping, and big city activities, while Annecy attracts visitors for its food, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Annecy is more touristy than Brussels and is popular for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. Brussels is famous for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. It is also well known for La Grand Place (Grote Markt).

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Brussels different from Annecy?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Brussels is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Brussels specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Annecy. The old town and lakefront setting is what brings the tourists, but there are several unique landmarks around town as well. Palais de l'Île is the most photographed spot in the old town. Also worth visiting are Musée-Château d'Annecy, Eglise Saint-Maurice, and Cathédrale Saint-Pierre.

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

Annecy is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Annecy, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Fresh caught fish and local French specialties make this town a wonderful culinary destination. The old town is filled with restaurants, cafes, and markets where you can enjoy local ingredients. There are many local dishes to try with some of the most popular being Tartiflette, Raclette, and Gratin de crozets. Fondue is also popular. You'll find cheese is a common component in many dishes.

Brussels has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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).

Is Brussels or Annecy Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Annecy has a few options to choose from. There are bars and pubs to visit with one of the most popular bar-hopping streets being Rue Sainte-Claire.

Is Brussels or Annecy Better for its Old Town?

Annecy is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

The old town of Annecy is one of the most recognized in the world. This is among the most beautiful old towns in Europe. It sits along the banks of Lake Annecy and the water integrates beautifully into the setting.

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.

Is Brussels or Annecy Better for Hiking?

Annecy is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Brussels is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Annecy. There are a range of hikes just out of town that cover all ability levels. There are flat, waterfront strolls as well as more strenuous mountain treks. La Tournette is one of the most famous hikes in the area. Other options include Circuit des 3 Croix de Sevrier and Gorges du Fier.

Brussels is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Annecy?

Brussels is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Brussels draws large crowds to its 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.

Many visitors go to Annecy to go shopping. Three times a week you can check out the Old Town Market. Another popular shopping street is Rue Royale.

Is Brussels or Annecy Better for Families?

Both Brussels and Annecy are high quality family-friendly destinations.

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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Annecy is very family-friendly. Families can enjoy getting out on the lake by renting a boat or going for a swim. Check out Wibit Water Park or let the kids play at Leisure Center Orange Montisel. There's also a great playground for kids right by the waterfront. Hiking and exploring are also fun for the whole family.

Is Brussels or Annecy Better for Couples?

Annecy is renowned for romance. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Annecy is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's a romantic French mountain town with beautiful scenery and a wonderful lake. Couples can enjoy outdoor activities or wandering through one of the best old towns in the region. The beauty and natural setting make this a wonderful couples destination.

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

Is Brussels or Annecy Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for backpackers.

Many backpackers 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Annecy. It's a world class mountain destination that attracts families and vacationers, but there aren't as many hostels around town as backpackers would like.

Is Brussels or Annecy Better for Students?

Brussels is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Annecy is not popular with students.

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

Annecy is not popular with students.

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

Brussels is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its public transit.

Brussels has a great public transit system. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

Annecy has a few public transit options. The Sibra public transport system offers buses that travel through Annecy and around the lake, stopping at many towns along the way.

Is Brussels or Annecy a more walkable city?

Brussels and Annecy both are high quality when exploring on foot.

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.

Annecy is a very walkable city. The old town is filled with pedestrian streets that are perfect to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Annecy or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Annecy?

It's fun to spend time in either Brussels or Annecy. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Brussels due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Brussels, and 2-4 days is enough time in Annecy.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Brussels than Annecy 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 Annecy?

Brussels is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Annecy is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Annecy?

Brussels is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the shopping, 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.

Annecy is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this alpine town 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 Annecy, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Brussels or Annecy?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brussels. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. 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.

Annecy is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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 Annecy?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic big city of Brussels. 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.

Annecy is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This alpine town offers something for everyone.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Brussels or Annecy?

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

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 Brussels or Annecy in the Summer?

Both Annecy and Brussels during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Brussels for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Annecy in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Brussels is cooler than Annecy. Typically, the summer temperatures in Brussels in July average around 18°C (65°F), and Annecy averages at about 22°C (71°F).

In Annecy, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Annecy. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 285 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in July than Annecy. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Annecy in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Annecy. Many visitors come to Brussels in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Annecy for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Brussels is generally cooler than Annecy. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 12°C (54°F), and Annecy fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Annecy during autumn. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Brussels usually receives less rain than Annecy. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Brussels or Annecy in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Brussels as well as Annecy. Most visitors come to Brussels for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Annecy because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Annecy can be very cold. Brussels can be very cold during winter. Brussels is cooler than Annecy in the winter. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Annecy fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Annecy. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Annecy receives 62 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in January than Annecy. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Annecy in the Spring?

Both Annecy and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Brussels because of the activities around the city. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Annecy this time of year.

In the spring, Brussels is cooler than Annecy. Typically, the spring temperatures in Brussels in April average around 10°C (49°F), and Annecy averages at about 11°C (53°F).

Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Annecy during spring. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Annecy receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Brussels usually receives less rain than Annecy. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Annecy receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Annecy and Brussels