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

Should you visit Brussels or Berlin?

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 Berlin. 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. 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.

Berlin

Berlin is a cultural, artsy, and creative city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for live music, food, and shopping.

Brussels and Berlin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brussels or Berlin?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Berlin than Brussels. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Berlin is very popular for its museums, nightlife, and music, while Brussels attracts visitors for its historical sights. Berlin is more touristy than Brussels and is popular for its art scene, cultural activities, and war torn history. It is also well known for the Brandenburg Gate. Brussels is famous for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles.

How is Brussels different from Berlin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Berlin is renowned for its museums and landmarks. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Berlin that are not to be missed. Famous landmarks include the rebuilt Reichstag, the Berlin Wall Memorial, and Berliner Fernsehturm. Many of the city's oldest and most famous museums are found on Museum Island, where you'll find the Pergamon Museum, the James Simon Gallery, the Altes Museum, and the Neues Museum, among others.

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.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at great restaurants in both Brussels and Berlin.

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).

Berlin has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a great international food scene, but also all of the traditional favorites like currywurst, spätzle, and schnitzel. You'll find many diverse food halls, street markets, and local restaurants, as well as a large selection of traditional German restaurants that cater to the tourists.

Is Brussels or Berlin Better for Nightlife?

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

Berlin is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The nightlife scene here is legendary. There are club nights that last for days, bars and parties that appeal to every personality, and a diversity of venues that you can choose from. You'll find the classic techno warehouses, but there are also modern dance clubs, bunker parties, and raves.

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 Berlin Better for Music?

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

Berlin is a world class music destination. From the raves to the techno parties, there is a hugely diverse music scene in the city. It is so much more than the stereotypical punk and techno music that Berlin is known for. Rock, pop, and other genres are popular as well.

Brussels is not a live music destination.

Is Brussels or Berlin Better for its Old Town?

Brussels is a great city for its old town. However, Berlin 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.

Berlin does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Berlin?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Berlin and Brussels.

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.

Known for shopping, Berlin draws large crowds to its stores. Bookshops, flea markets, luxury boutiques and artisan shops all make up the shopping scene in the city. Kurfürstendamm is one of the most famous shopping districts in the city.

Is Brussels or Berlin Better for Families?

Both Brussels and Berlin are great 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, Berlin is very family-friendly. The city has a number of great kid-friendly museums such as the Museum of Natural History and the Computer Games Museum. There's also Legoland, an impressive aquarium, and lots of parks and playgrounds to explore.

Is Brussels or Berlin Better for Couples?

Brussels is a great city for its romantic activities. Also, Berlin is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

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.

Berlin is a good city for couples to visit. Romantic activities in the city include wandering through Schloss Charlottenburg gardens and learning to dance at Clärchen’s Ballhaus. For couples who enjoy a night out on the town, there are many great restaurants and nightclubs that you can check out.

Is Brussels or Berlin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Berlin is renowned for backpackers. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Berlin is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. The city has no shortage of hostels to choose from, many of which organize activities and tours that guests can enjoy.

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.

Is Brussels or Berlin Better for Students?

Berlin is renowned for students. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Berlin is a very popular place to visit for students. With it's rich culture and eclectic creative side, this city appeals to many international students. There's also a great social scene that is perfect for university students.

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.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Brussels and Berlin.

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

Public transit in Berlin is top-notch. The transportation system is diverse and includes the S-Bahn, U-Bahn, buses, and trams.

Is Brussels or Berlin a more walkable city?

Brussels is a great city for its high level of walkability. Also, Berlin is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

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

Berlin is a somewhat walkable city. While parts of the city are very walkable, the neighborhoods are spread out and the city covers a large amount of space, so walking isn't always practical.

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

Should I spend more time in Berlin or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Berlin?

Both Brussels and Berlin have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Berlin than in Brussels. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Brussels, and 2-7 days is enough time in Berlin.

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

One day in Brussels or Berlin?

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 Berlin 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 Berlin?

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.

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

Five days in Brussels or Berlin?

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.

Berlin is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Berlin, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Brussels or Berlin?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the colorful 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.

Berlin is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Berlin has to offer. This 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 Adventure Tours to Germany, and The Best Cultural Tours in Germany.

When comparing the travel costs between Brussels and Berlin, we can see that Berlin 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 Brussels Expensive? and Is Berlin Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Brussels or Berlin?

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

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 Berlin in the Summer?

Both Berlin and Brussels during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Brussels in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Berlin for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Brussels is around the same temperature as Berlin. Typically, the summer temperatures in Brussels in July average around 18°C (65°F), and Berlin averages at about 19°C (66°F).

In Berlin, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Berlin. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Berlin receives 227 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in July than Berlin. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Berlin in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Berlin. 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 Berlin because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Brussels is generally a little warmer than Berlin. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 12°C (54°F), and Berlin fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Brussels usually receives more sunshine than Berlin during autumn. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies, while Berlin receives 106 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Brussels usually receives more rain than Berlin. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Brussels or Berlin in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Brussels as well as Berlin. The winter months attract visitors to Brussels because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Berlin this time of year.

It's quite cold in Berlin in the winter. The weather in Brussels can be very cold. Brussels is much warmer than Berlin in the winter. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Berlin fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

In the winter, Brussels often gets more sunshine than Berlin. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Berlin receives 42 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in January than Berlin. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Berlin in the Spring?

Both Berlin and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city are the main draw to Brussels this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Berlin for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Brussels is a little warmer than Berlin. Typically, the spring temperatures in Brussels in April average around 10°C (49°F), and Berlin averages at about 9°C (47°F).

Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Berlin during spring. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Berlin receives 160 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Brussels usually receives more rain than Berlin. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Berlin and Brussels