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

Should you visit Brussels or Dijon?

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 Dijon. 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 cosmopolitan, authentic, and colorful 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.

Dijon

Dijon is a culinary, relaxing, and historical city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Brussels and Dijon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brussels or Dijon?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Brussels than Dijon, 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 Dijon is known for its food and impressive beauty. Dijon is more touristy than Brussels and is known for its cuisine, wine, and nearby vineyards. Brussels is popular for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. It is also home to La Grand Place (Grote Markt).

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Brussels different from Dijon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Brussels and Dijon have superb 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.

Dijon offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. This historic city is filled with sights worth checking. Palais des Ducs and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne, and Eglise Notre-Dame are among the favorites.

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

Dijon 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 Dijon, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It is one of the top foodie destinations in France, and you'll find amazing local markets, award winning restaurants, and world class cuisine. Make sure you check out Les Halles Market to try local flavors. In addition to its famous mustard, the city is also popular for gingerbread, truffles, escargot, and, of course, wine.

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 Dijon Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Dijon has a few options to choose from. While it's not a active as the larger European cities, there's still an fun nightlife scene that is driven mostly by the large student population.

Is Brussels or Dijon Better for its Old Town?

Brussels is notable for its historic old town. However, Dijon does not have a historic old town.

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.

Dijon does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Dijon?

Brussels is terrific for shopping. Also, Dijon 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 Dijon. For the best shopping in town, head to the main shopping street - Rue de la Liberté. It's lined with everything from clothing stores to wine shops and larger department stores. You'll even be able to pick up some of the famed mustard while you're in town.

Is Brussels or Dijon Better for Families?

Brussels is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Dijon is a family-friendly city. Kids will enjoy the open space that the city offers. There are parks where they can run around, like The Parc de la Colombieres which has a carousel and a ropes course. There are also many museums including two favorites for young ones - Musee de la Vie Bourguignonne and Musee d'Histoire Naturelle.

Is Brussels or Dijon Better for Couples?

Brussels and Dijon both superb destinations for a couple.

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.

Dijon is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Art, palaces, gardens, and fine wine make it a perfect couple's getaway. There is some of the best food in France, as well as a welcoming culture and many beautiful sights to explore.

Is Brussels or Dijon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels is notable for backpackers. Also, Dijon 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.

Dijon is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's a beautiful city with a touristy vibe, so you'll likely meet other travelers while you're in town.

Is Brussels or Dijon Better for Students?

Brussels is notable for students. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Plenty of students visit Dijon. While it's quieter than the bigger cities, you'll find a young vibe and enough of a nightlife scene to keep it interesting.

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

Brussels is terrific for its public transit. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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

Dijon has some public transit options. Tram and buses offer access to many parts of the city.

Is Brussels or Dijon a more walkable city?

Brussels is notable for its walkability. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Dijon is a somewhat walkable place. Most of the inner city is walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Dijon or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Dijon?

It's fun to spend time in either Brussels or Dijon. 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 Dijon.

Families should spend more time in Brussels than Dijon. 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 Dijon. 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 Brussels than Dijon 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 Dijon?

Each neighborhood in Brussels has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the shopping. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

The city of Dijon offers food and shopping. 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 Dijon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brussels. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

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

Five days in Brussels or Dijon?

Brussels is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Brussels has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Lots of people come for the shopping. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Dijon 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 Dijon?

You'll find food and shopping around the cosmopolitan big city of Brussels. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the shopping. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Dijon is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to France, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Brussels or Dijon?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Dijon. When comparing the sizes of Brussels and Dijon, 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 Dijon?

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 Dijon in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Dijon. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Brussels this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dijon for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Brussels is cooler than Dijon in the summer. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 18°C (65°F) in July, and Dijon fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Dijon this time of the year. Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Dijon during summer. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies, while Dijon receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Brussels usually receives more rain than Dijon. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Brussels or Dijon in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Brussels as well as Dijon. Many travelers come to Brussels for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Dijon in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Brussels is around the same temperature as Dijon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Brussels in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Dijon averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Brussels often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dijon. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dijon receives 121 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in October than Dijon. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Dijon in the Winter?

Both Dijon and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Brussels in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Dijon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Dijon can be very cold during winter. Brussels can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Brussels is generally around the same temperature as Dijon. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 3°C (38°F), and Dijon fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Dijon during winter. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies, while Dijon receives 53 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Brussels usually receives more rain than Dijon. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Brussels or Dijon in the Spring?

Both Dijon and Brussels during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Brussels for the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Dijon because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Brussels is cooler than Dijon in the spring. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 10°C (49°F) in April, and Dijon fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Dijon. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dijon receives 178 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in April than Dijon. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Dijon and Brussels