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

Should you visit Brussels or Dresden?

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 Dresden. 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.

Dresden

Dresden is a park-filled, friendly, and architectural city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Brussels and Dresden: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brussels or Dresden?

You'll generally find more things to do in Brussels than Dresden. Brussels is bigger than Dresden, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Brussels is better known for its museums, food, shopping, and big city activities, while Dresden is more popular for its nightlife. Dresden is more touristy than Brussels and is known for its beautiful palaces, castles, and many landmarks (such as the Baroque Zwinger Palace, Semperoper Opera House and the Church of Our Lady). 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 Dresden?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Brussels is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Dresden is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It's rich in culture and baroque architecture. Some of the main sights around town include Dresden Frauenkirche, the Dresden Royal Palace and Museums, the Zwinger and Old Masters Picture Gallery, and the Semper Opera.

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

Brussels is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Dresden 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 Dresden. The food features a number of Saxon specialties, which are typically hearty and heavy on the meat. If you have a sweet tooth, you'll also appreciate the many sweets that you can find around town. You should make sure you try a Fettbemme (open faced sandwich), Eierschecke (a cake), and Sächsische Kartoffelsuppe (potato soup) while you're in town.

Is Brussels or Dresden Better for Nightlife?

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

Dresden is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Head to Neustadt for the highest concentration of bars and clubs. There's a diversity of trendy clubs and casual bars. Bar hopping is easy as most places are accessible by public transit.

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 Dresden Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the superb old town areas in both Brussels and Dresden.

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 Dresden. Much of the city's old town has been rebuilt, but that's not to say it isn't beautiful. The main square and surrounding area are where you'll find the majority of the city's main sights.

Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Dresden?

Brussels is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Dresden. Kunsthofpassage Dresden is a network of streets where you'll find crafts, art, and other eclectic items for sale. Prager Strasse is a popular shopping street near old town and Seestrasse is where you'll find all of the trendy brands that are popular throughout Europe. The city also has many shopping malls.

Is Brussels or Dresden Better for Families?

Brussels is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Dresden is a city with minimal options 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.

For families, Dresden is not always the best place to visit. It doesn't have quite the abundance of activities for kids that you may find in other Germany cities, but that doesn't mean that kids will be bored. There's the Dresden Zoo, the Dresdner Parkeisenbahn (a small steam rail), and the Saxon Folk Art Museum. Families can also take a guided to of the Transparent Factory, which is owned by Volkswagon and provided information on the manufacturing of automobiles.

Is Brussels or Dresden Better for Couples?

Brussels is a great destination for couples. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Dresden is a nice destination for couples. Couples can explore the old town or walk through one of the city's many parks. The city has many cultural activities. In the new town you'll find many great bars and fascinating restaurants.

Is Brussels or Dresden Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Brussels is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Dresden is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are plenty of hostels to choose from and the city itself is not particularly expensive.

Is Brussels or Dresden Better for Students?

Brussels is a great destination for students. However, Dresden 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.

Dresden is not popular with students.

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

Brussels is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Brussels is top-notch. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

While Dresden offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The city has two major train stations as well as tram and bus lines around town.

Is Brussels or Dresden a more walkable city?

Brussels and Dresden both are superb 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.

Dresden is a very walkable city. Particularly in the compact city center you'll find Dresden to be very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Dresden or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Dresden?

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

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

Because Brussels is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

The city of Dresden 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 Dresden?

Because Brussels is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Brussels has to offer.

Dresden 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Dresden, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Brussels or Dresden?

Brussels is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Brussels has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Dresden is a popular choice for travelers. 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 Dresden?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brussels. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Brussels. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Dresden is a great place to explore. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin.

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

Which is Bigger, Brussels or Dresden?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Dresden. When comparing the sizes of Brussels and Dresden, 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 Dresden?

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 Dresden in the Summer?

Both Dresden 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 Dresden for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Brussels is generally around the same temperature as Dresden. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 18°C (65°F), and Dresden fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In July, Brussels usually receives more rain than Dresden. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Brussels or Dresden in the Autumn?

Both Dresden 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 Dresden in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Brussels is a little warmer than Dresden in the autumn. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Dresden fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Brussels usually gets more rain in October than Dresden. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Dresden in the Winter?

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

Dresden can be very cold during winter. Brussels can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Brussels is much warmer than Dresden. Typically, the winter temperatures in Brussels in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Dresden averages at about 1°C (33°F).

In January, Brussels usually receives more rain than Dresden. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Brussels or Dresden in the Spring?

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

In April, Brussels is generally around the same temperature as Dresden. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 10°C (49°F), and Dresden fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Brussels usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Dresden. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Dresden and Brussels