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

Should you visit Brussels or Austin?

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 Austin. 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 colorful, multicultural, and historic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Brussels travel costs.

Austin

Austin is a lively, entrepreneurial, and eccentric city. It's also a big city with many activities. Austin is a very beautiful destination, too. It's also known for live music, food, and shopping. See Austin travel costs.

Brussels and Austin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brussels or Austin?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Brussels than Austin, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Brussels is more popular for its historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Austin is known for its food, nightlife, music, hiking, and 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). Austin is popular for its live music scene, excellent Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant student population.

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Brussels different from Austin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Brussels and Austin have great landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Brussels. 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.

Austin offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Austin has a number of great museums and sights including the Blanton Museum of Art, the Mexic-Arte Museum, and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. There's also a huge supply of local art galleries. Perhaps the most notable landmark in town is the beautiful Texas Capital Building

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

Austin 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 Austin, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It is credited with being the original food truck city and you'll find many diverse food truck options around town. There is also amazing Mexican food, world renowned Texas barbecue, and many modern restaurants that reflect the city's culinary influence.

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 Austin Better for Nightlife?

Austin is renowned for nightlife. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Austin is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. It's nightlife is centered around its thriving live music scene. Head for Sixth Street for some of the most popular bars and clubs. There are also many music festivals and outdoor concerts, particularly during the summer months. Popular bars and clubs around town include the White Horse, the Rose Room, and Antone's Nightclub.

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

Is Brussels or Austin Better for Music?

Austin is renowned for live music. However, Brussels is not a live music destination.

Austin is a world class music destination. Music is what gives this city its character. There are many live music venues, concerts, and music festivals to experience. Austin has influenced many music genres such as rock, blues, jazz, hip hop, punk, and country.

Brussels is not a live music destination.

Is Brussels or Austin Better for its Old Town?

Brussels is a great destination for its historic old town. However, Austin does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Brussels to see the historical old town. 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.

Austin does not have a historic old town.

Is Brussels or Austin Better for Hiking?

Austin is a city with a few options for its hiking experiences. However, Brussels is not a hiking destination.

Austin has hiking trails if you want to get outside. Head just outside of town to explore a few great hiking spots right near town.

Brussels is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Austin?

Brussels is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 Austin. There are a number of local boutiques around town where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Brussels or Austin More Beautiful?

Austin is a city with a few options for its scenery and beauty. However, Brussels is not a destination known for its beauty.

Austin is a very beautiful destination, too. The city has some nearby natural beauty as well as an eclectic style.

Brussels is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Brussels or Austin Better for Families?

Brussels is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Austin offers lots of family activities. The city is a popular destination for young travelers, but there are also some family-friendly activities like Barton Springs, Zilker Park, and several natural swimming holes. There's a number of nice parks around town that are great for kids of all ages.

Is Brussels or Austin Better for Couples?

Brussels is a great destination for romance. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Brussels frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Austin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Young couples will enjoy the city for its lively nightlife, fun music scene, and youthful vibe. There are also many outdoor areas where you can hike or explore. The restaurant scene is among the best as well.

Is Brussels or Austin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels and Austin are great places to visit 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.

Many backpackers visit Austin. Although the city is relatively small, it does see a disproportionate number of backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town as well.

Is Brussels or Austin Better for Students?

Brussels and Austin are great places to visit for students.

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

Austin is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city has a huge university, the University of Texas at Austin, and it is a young city with tons for international students. There is a great nightlife scene and plenty for students to see and do.

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

Brussels is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Austin is a city with minimal options 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Austin. There are city buses and a very limited lightrail system, but you really need a car to explore the city.

Is Brussels or Austin a more walkable city?

Brussels is a great destination for its walkability. However, Austin is a city with minimal options 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.

Austin is generally not a very walkable city. The city, like most southern cities, isn't very walkable and it's important to have a car to get around. There are some downtown areas that are pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Austin or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Austin?

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

Families should spend more time in Brussels than Austin. 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 Austin. 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.

One day in Brussels or Austin?

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.

The city of Austin offers museums and nightlife. 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 Austin?

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.

Austin 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 Austin, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Brussels or Austin?

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.

Austin 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 Austin?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cosmopolitan 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.

Austin 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Belgium, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Belgium, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

When comparing the travel costs between Brussels and Austin, we can see that Brussels 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. Even though Brussels is in Europe and Austin is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Brussels or Austin?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 50% larger than the population of Austin. When comparing the sizes of Brussels and Austin, 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 Austin?

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 Austin in the Summer?

Both Austin and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Brussels in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Austin for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Brussels is much colder than Austin in the summer. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 18°C (65°F) in July, and Austin fluctuates around 87°F (30°C).

It's quite sunny in Austin. Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Austin during summer. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies, while Austin receives 318 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Brussels usually receives more rain than Austin. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Brussels or Austin in the Autumn?

Both Austin and Brussels during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Brussels for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Austin because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Brussels is much colder than Austin. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Brussels in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Austin averages at about 73°F (23°C).

In Austin, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Austin. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Austin receives 214 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets less rain in October than Austin. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Austin receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Austin in the Winter?

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

The weather in Brussels can be very cold. In January, Brussels is generally much colder than Austin. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 3°C (38°F), and Austin fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Austin during winter. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies, while Austin receives 163 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Brussels usually receives more rain than Austin. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Brussels or Austin in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Brussels as well as Austin. The activities around the city are the main draw to Brussels this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Austin for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Brussels is much colder than Austin in the spring. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 10°C (49°F) in April, and Austin fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Austin. In the spring, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Austin. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Austin receives 209 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets less rain in April than Austin. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Austin receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Austin and Brussels