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

Should you visit Brussels or Dingle?

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 Dingle. 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. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Dingle

Dingle is a natural, scenic, and rustic peninsula. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Brussels and Dingle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brussels or Dingle?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Brussels than Dingle, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Brussels is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Dingle is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Dingle is more touristy than Brussels and is known for its traditional pubs, stunning coastline, and rugged cliffs. Brussels is well known for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. Also, Brussels is famous for La Grand Place (Grote Markt).

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Brussels different from Dingle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Brussels is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Dingle is a peninsula with minimal options for its historical sights.

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.

While most people don't head to Dingle specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people visit for the natural beauty, but there are a couple of landmarks in the area including the Eask Tower, Gallarus Oratory, and the Blasket Centre.

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

Brussels is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Dingle is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Brussels is an experience not to be missed. 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).

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Dingle. You'll find great seafood throughout the peninsula. There's also traditional Irish food available including Irish stew or cabbage and bacon.

Is Brussels or Dingle Better for Nightlife?

Brussels is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Dingle is a peninsula with minimal options for nightlife.

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.

Dingle doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The area's not known for its nightlife but you can visit The Hillgrove, which is the peninsula's only nightclub. It's in a hotel and there is weekly entertainment.

Is Brussels or Dingle Better for Beaches?

Dingle is well known for its beaches. However, Brussels is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Dingle for it's beautiful beaches. It's not hard to find a quiet beach with scenic views and a serene setting. Some of the best beaches in the area include Coumeenole, Brandon Bay, and Ventry.

Brussels is not a beach destination.

Is Brussels or Dingle Better for its Old Town?

Brussels is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Dingle 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.

Dingle does not have a historic old town.

Is Brussels or Dingle Better for Hiking?

Dingle is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Brussels is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Dingle. There are a variety of walking paths and hiking trails that take you through the coastal setting, rolling mountains, and remote nature. Some of the best trails in the area include the long distance hiking trail the Dingle Way, Mount Brandon, and Glenteenassig Forest Park.

Brussels is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Dingle?

Brussels is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. However, Dingle is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Brussels is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Dingle is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Brussels or Dingle Better for Families?

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

Brussels is known to be 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.

Dingle offers lots of family activities. There are coastal walks and beaches that are perfect for kids. You can also visit the Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium, do a dolphin tour, or enjoy some watersports. Horseback riding and Sandy Feet Farm are both fun as well.

Is Brussels or Dingle Better for Couples?

Brussels and Dingle 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.

Dingle is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Boat rides, sunset walks, and natural beauty all make this a fun place to explore with your significant other.

Is Brussels or Dingle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels and Dingle are superb 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 Dingle. There are a good number of hostels on the peninsula and there are interesting music festivals and other events that make this a good backpacker destination.

Is Brussels or Dingle Better for Students?

Brussels is a great destination for students. However, Dingle is not popular with 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.

Dingle is not popular with students.

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

Brussels is an unbeatable place for its public transit. However, Dingle is a peninsula with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Brussels can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

Public transit is mostly limited in Dingle. Bus Eireann offers buses daily to Tralee and then there are connections to other destinations.

Is Brussels or Dingle a more walkable city?

Brussels is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Dingle is a peninsula with minimal options for its walkability.

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

Dingle is generally not a very walkable city. If you have enough time, there are countless walking trails throughout the peninsula.

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

Should I spend more time in Dingle or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Dingle?

In either Brussels or Dingle, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Brussels has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Brussels than Dingle. In general, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Brussels, and 2-5 days is enough time in Dingle.

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

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 beautiful peninsula of Dingle offers food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Dingle?

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.

Dingle is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this peninsula makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Dingle, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Brussels or Dingle?

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.

Dingle is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Dingle, 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 Dingle?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic 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.

Dingle is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This peninsula 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 10-Day Tours in Ireland, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Ireland.

When comparing the travel costs between Brussels and Dingle, 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. 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 Dingle Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Brussels or Dingle?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 520 times larger than the population of Dingle. When comparing the sizes of Brussels and Dingle, 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 Dingle?

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 Dingle in the Summer?

Both Dingle and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Brussels this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dingle for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Brussels is generally a little warmer than Dingle. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 18°C (65°F), and Dingle fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

Brussels usually receives more sunshine than Dingle during summer. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies, while Dingle receives 140 hours of full sun in the summer.

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

Should I visit Brussels or Dingle in the Autumn?

Both Dingle and Brussels during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Brussels for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Dingle in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Brussels is around the same temperature as Dingle in the autumn. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Dingle fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Brussels often gets more sunshine than Dingle. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dingle receives 79 hours of full sun.

Dingle gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Brussels usually gets less rain in October than Dingle. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Dingle receives 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Dingle in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Dingle. Many visitors come to Brussels in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Dingle for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

Brussels can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Brussels is much colder than Dingle. Typically, the winter temperatures in Brussels in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Dingle averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Brussels usually receives more sunshine than Dingle during winter. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies, while Dingle receives 44 hours of full sun in the winter.

Dingle receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Brussels usually receives less rain than Dingle. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Dingle receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Brussels or Dingle in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Brussels as well as Dingle. Most visitors come to Brussels for the activities around the city during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Dingle because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Brussels is generally around the same temperature as Dingle. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 10°C (49°F), and Dingle fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Brussels often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dingle. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dingle receives 150 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets less rain in April than Dingle. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Dingle receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Dingle and Brussels