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

Should you visit Brussels or Boston?

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 Boston. 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. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Boston

Boston is a traditional, classic, and proud city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Brussels and Boston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brussels or Boston?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Boston than Brussels. While Brussels is larger than Boston, Boston has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Boston is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Brussels is known for its shopping and big city activities. Boston is more touristy than Brussels and is known for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also home to The Freedom Trail. Brussels is popular for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles.

How is Brussels different from Boston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Boston 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 Boston that are not to be missed. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

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 Brussels or Boston Better for Theater?

Boston is well known for theatre. However, Brussels is not a theatre destination.

Boston offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Brussels is not a theatre destination.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at excellent restaurants in both Brussels and Boston.

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).

Boston has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

Is Brussels or Boston Better for Nightlife?

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

Boston is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

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 Boston Better for Music?

Boston is a good destination for live music. However, Brussels is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Boston. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Brussels is not a live music destination.

Is Brussels or Boston Better for Beaches?

Boston is a city with a few options for its beaches. However, Brussels is not a beach destination.

Boston is a good spot to see the beach. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Brussels is not a beach destination.

Is Brussels or Boston Better for its Old Town?

Boston 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 Boston is one of the most recognized in the world. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

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 the Shopping Better in Brussels or Boston?

Brussels is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Boston 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 Boston. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Is Brussels or Boston Better for Christmas?

Boston is well known for its Christmas activities. However, Brussels does not offer Christmas activities.

Visitors come from all around to experience the Christmas activities in Boston. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Brussels does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Brussels or Boston Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is well known for its Christmas markets. However, Brussels does not offer Christmas markets.

Boston has a lively atmosphere around its Christmas markets. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Brussels does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Brussels or Boston Better for Families?

Boston is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Boston is very family-friendly. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Brussels is very family-friendly. 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.

Is Brussels or Boston Better for Couples?

Brussels is notable for romance. Also, Boston 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.

Boston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Is Brussels or Boston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels is notable for backpackers. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Is Brussels or Boston Better for Students?

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

Boston is a very popular place to visit for students. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

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 Boston 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 Boston.

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

Public transit in Boston is top-notch. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

Is Brussels or Boston a more walkable city?

Boston is renowned for its walkability. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Boston on foot is easy. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Boston or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Boston?

In either Brussels or Boston, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Boston has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Boston than Brussels. In general, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Brussels, and 3-5 days is enough time in Boston.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boston 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 Boston.

One day in Brussels or Boston?

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 Boston offers shopping and museums. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Boston?

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.

Boston is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Brussels or Boston?

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.

Boston is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Boston, 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 Boston?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the multicultural 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.

Boston is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums 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 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 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, and The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Brussels and Boston, we can see that Boston is more expensive. And not only is Brussels much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Brussels is in Europe and Boston is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Boston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Boston 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 Boston Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Brussels or Boston?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 73% larger than the population of Boston. When comparing the sizes of Brussels and Boston, 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 Boston?

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 Boston in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Boston. The summer months attract visitors to Brussels because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Boston this time of year.

Brussels is cooler than Boston in the summer. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 18°C (65°F) in July, and Boston fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Boston this time of the year. Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Boston during summer. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 304 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Brussels usually receives around the same amount of rain as Boston. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Boston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Brussels or Boston in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Brussels as well as Boston. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Brussels this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Boston for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Brussels is around the same temperature as Boston. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Brussels in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Boston averages at about 54°F (12°C).

In the autumn, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Boston. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 194 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets less rain in October than Boston. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Boston in the Winter?

Both Boston and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Brussels for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Boston in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Boston can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Brussels. In January, Brussels is generally much warmer than Boston. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 3°C (38°F), and Boston fluctuates around 29°F (-2°C).

Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Boston during winter. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Brussels usually receives less rain than Boston. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Brussels or Boston in the Spring?

Both Boston and Brussels during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Brussels in the spring for the activities around the city. Furthermore, most visitors come to Boston for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

Brussels is around the same temperature as Boston in the spring. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 10°C (49°F) in April, and Boston fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

In Boston, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Boston. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 225 hours of full sun.

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

Typical Weather for Boston and Brussels