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

Should you visit Brussels or Genoa?

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 Genoa. 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. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Genoa

Genoa is a colorful, energetic, and historic port city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Brussels and Genoa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brussels or Genoa?

You'll generally find more things to do in Brussels than Genoa. Brussels is bigger than Genoa, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Brussels is better known for its historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Genoa is more popular for its beaches and impressive beauty. Genoa is more touristy than Brussels and is popular for its maritime history, its vibrant cultural scene, and being the birthplace of Christopher Columbus. 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 Genoa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Brussels and Genoa have great 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.

Genoa offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city has a long history and it is filled with monuments, palaces, and museums. Popular places to visit include the Via Garibaldi Palaces, the aquarium (one of the largest in Europe), the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, and Santi Ambrogio.

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

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

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).

Genoa has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city's maritime roots have influenced its cuisine and you'll find seafood in many local dishes. Other classic Genoese flavors include pesto, anchovies, fried squid, and focaccia and cheese.

Is Brussels or Genoa Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Genoa has a few options to choose from. The city lights up at night and it's fun to experience the activity and energy. There's a nice evening atmosphere with many people out and about. You can grab drinks in Piazza Lavagna or see live music in Porto Antico. There are also many bars and clubs around town.

Is Brussels or Genoa Better for Beaches?

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

Genoa is a good spot to see the beach. While many people head to other nearby towns to enjoy the beach, you will also find a beach just ten minutes from the old town by bus. Boccadasse is one of the closest beaches to town. It's also possible to do a day trip to other more famous beaches in the area, but you need to be prepared to travel a bit farther.

Brussels is not a beach destination.

Is Brussels or Genoa Better for its Old Town?

Brussels is great for its historic old town charm. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its 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.

Many visitors go to Genoa to see the historical old town. The old town is large and complex, with many different time periods represented in the architecture and development style.

Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Genoa?

Brussels is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for shopping.

Many people travel to Brussels specifically to go shopping. 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.

Genoa is a great destination for shopping. You can pick up a number of different souvenirs around town including baskets, t-shirts, and local pesto. Popular shopping areas include Galleria Mazzini, Via Roma, and Via XX Settembr.

Is Brussels or Genoa Better for Families?

Both Brussels and Genoa 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, Genoa is very family-friendly. The city is home to the second biggest aquarium in Europe as well as the Galata Maritime Museum and the Nazario Sauro Submarine. In the port there's also Vascello Nettuno, which was a pirate ship that was used in the filming of the movie 'Pirates' by Roman Polanski. Other fun kid-friendly attractions include La Biosfera, The Children's Museum, and the Bigo Lift.

Is Brussels or Genoa Better for Couples?

Brussels and Genoa both great 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.

Genoa is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. It's a beautiful port city with charming neighborhoods and some great restaurants. Couples will enjoy exploring this beautiful city and visiting its palaces and cathedrals.

Is Brussels or Genoa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels and Genoa are great 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 Genoa. There are a number of affordable hostels in the area, and while this isn't the top backpacker destination in Italy, it is a nice place to spend some time.

Is Brussels or Genoa Better for Students?

Brussels and Genoa are great places to visit for students.

Many students visit Brussels. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.

Genoa is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a popular study abroad destination so you'll find a number of international students in the area. The city is also well connected for exploring the region.

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

Brussels is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its public transit.

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

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Genoa. There's a wide range of different public transit options that are all operated by AMT. The system includes buses, an underground (one line), funiculars (two), lifts (ten), a boat, cogwheel and narrow gauge railways.

Is Brussels or Genoa a more walkable city?

Brussels and Genoa both are great 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.

Genoa is a very walkable city. The old town, where most tourists spend the majority of their time, is easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Genoa or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Genoa?

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

Couples should spend more time in Brussels than Genoa. 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 Genoa 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 Genoa?

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 port city of Genoa 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 Genoa?

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.

Genoa is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this port city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Genoa, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Brussels or Genoa?

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.

Genoa 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 Genoa?

You'll find food and shopping around the colorful 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.

Genoa is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This port 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Brussels or Genoa?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 69% larger than the population of Genoa. When comparing the sizes of Brussels and Genoa, 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 Genoa?

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 Genoa in the Summer?

Both Genoa 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. Also, most visitors come to Genoa for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Brussels is generally cooler than Genoa. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 18°C (65°F), and Genoa fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

In Genoa, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Genoa. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Genoa receives 295 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in July than Genoa. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Genoa in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Genoa. Most visitors come to Brussels for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Genoa because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Brussels is much colder than Genoa in the autumn. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Genoa fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Genoa during autumn. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies, while Genoa receives 183 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Brussels usually receives less rain than Genoa. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Brussels or Genoa in the Winter?

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

The weather in Brussels can be very cold. In the winter, Brussels is much colder than Genoa. Typically, the winter temperatures in Brussels in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Genoa averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In the winter, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Genoa. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Genoa receives 127 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Genoa. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Genoa in the Spring?

Both Genoa 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 Genoa for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Brussels is generally much colder than Genoa. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 10°C (49°F), and Genoa fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Genoa during spring. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Genoa receives 198 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Brussels usually receives less rain than Genoa. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Genoa and Brussels