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

Should you visit Brussels or Bari?

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 Bari. 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 historic, cosmopolitan, and authentic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Bari

Bari is a authentic, local, and cultural port city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping.

Brussels and Bari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brussels or Bari?

You'll generally find more things to do in Brussels than Bari. Brussels is bigger than Bari, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Brussels is better known for its shopping and big city activities, while Bari is more popular for its food, nightlife, and beaches. Brussels is more touristy than Bari and is popular for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. Also, Brussels is famous for La Grand Place (Grote Markt). Bari is well known for its authentic old town and its role as a ferry port for travelers headed across the Adriatic.

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Brussels different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Brussels and Bari have excellent 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.

Bari offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is filled with historical sights and archeological ruins. San Nicola is the main basilica in town and a popular tourist sight. The Castello is also a highlight, as is San Sabino.

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

Bari 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 Bari, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It's off-the-beaten-path vibe means that you won't find the overpriced tourist restaurants that have taken over more touristy cities. Instead you'll find locally owned pasta shops that cater to the town's residents. You can taste authentic Pugliese cuisine, which is centered around wheat and olive oil. Orecchiette is the local pasta and seafood is one of the most common staples.

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 Bari Better for Nightlife?

Bari is well known for nightlife. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Bari is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city really comes to life at night with many dance clubs, bars, and other fun venues. There's plenty of live music as well as jazz clubs and other local bars.

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 Bari Better for Beaches?

Bari is a good destination for its beaches. However, Brussels is not a beach destination.

Bari offers a nice beach destination. There's a sandy beach that you can reach by bus outside of the city center. There are also many great beaches around Puglia if you're willing to take a day trip or travel a bit farther.

Brussels is not a beach destination.

Is Brussels or Bari Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the excellent old town areas in both Brussels and Bari.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of 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.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Bari. The old town is filled with historic sights, mazelike streets, and great food. It's pedestrian-only and, because Bari is not as popular with tourists, it holds on to its authentic charm.

Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Bari?

Brussels is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for shopping.

Many people travel to Brussels specifically to go shopping. 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.

Bari is a great destination for shopping. You won't find the souvenir shops that you find in more touristy cities, so if you take the time to do some shopping while you're in town, you can enjoy a truly authentic and cultural experience.

Is Brussels or Bari Better for Families?

Both Brussels and Bari are excellent 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, Bari is very family-friendly. There are historical sites and castles to explore as well as the fun-filled Miragica amusement park. There's also an impressive underground city that will spark the kid's imagination. Other fun activities include visiting the nearby beaches, taking a kayak tour, or wandering around the old town.

Is Brussels or Bari Better for Couples?

Brussels is a great city for couples. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for romance.

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.

Bari is a nice destination for couples. The old town is filled with mazelike streets and the city has many unique activities that appeal to history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Is Brussels or Bari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels and Bari are excellent 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 Bari. There's plenty of hostels around town and the prices are usually very reasonable. Many backpackers pass through this port city on their way to Greece or other Adriatic destinations.

Is Brussels or Bari Better for Students?

Brussels and Bari are excellent 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.

Bari is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a great student city that offers access to many nearby Mediterranean destinations. There are also a number of historical sights within town that students can visit.

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

Brussels is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Brussels can take you anywhere. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

Bari has a few public transit options. There are buses around town that are operated by the AMTAB.

Is Brussels or Bari a more walkable city?

Brussels and Bari both are excellent 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.

Bari is a very walkable city. The old town is pedestrian-only and best explored on foot. It's also about a 20 minute walk from the central train station.

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

Should I spend more time in Bari or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Bari?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Brussels than Bari. 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 Bari than Brussels 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 Bari.

One day in Brussels or Bari?

Brussels is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

The port city of Bari 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.

A weekend in Brussels or Bari?

Brussels is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the shopping. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

Five days in Brussels or Bari?

Brussels is a historic big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Bari 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 Bari?

The historic city of Brussels offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

Bari is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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 port city 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 Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Brussels and Bari, we can see that Brussels is more expensive. And not only is Bari much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bari would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bari 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 Bari.

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

Which is Bigger, Brussels or Bari?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Bari. When comparing the sizes of Brussels and Bari, 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 Bari?

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 Bari in the Summer?

Both Bari and Brussels during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Brussels because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bari this time of year.

In July, Brussels is generally cooler than Bari. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 18°C (65°F), and Bari fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

In Bari, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Bari. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 336 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in July than Bari. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Bari receives 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Bari in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Bari. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Brussels this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Bari for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Brussels is much colder than Bari in the autumn. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Bari fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Bari during autumn. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Brussels usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bari. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bari receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Brussels or Bari in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Brussels as well as Bari. Many travelers come to Brussels for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Bari in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Brussels. In the winter, Brussels is much colder than Bari. Typically, the winter temperatures in Brussels in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Bari averages at about 10°C (49°F).

In the winter, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Bari. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 110 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in January than Bari. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bari receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Bari in the Spring?

Both Bari and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Brussels in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Bari for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Brussels is generally cooler than Bari. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 10°C (49°F), and Bari fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Bari. Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Bari during spring. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 203 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Brussels usually receives more rain than Bari. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Bari receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bari and Brussels