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

Should you visit Brussels or Heidelberg?

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 Heidelberg. 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. 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.

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a energetic, lively, and charming town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Brussels and Heidelberg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brussels or Heidelberg?

You'll generally find more things to do in Brussels than Heidelberg. Brussels is bigger than Heidelberg, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Brussels is better known for its museums, shopping, and big city activities, while Heidelberg is more popular for its nightlife, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Heidelberg is more touristy than Brussels and is popular for its picturesque beauty, romantic atmosphere, and its classic old town. 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 Heidelberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Brussels is a great city for its historical sights. However, Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

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).

Heidelberg has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The old town is filled with local restaurants that offer an assortment of traditional dishes. The restaurants offer a mix of outdoor and indoor seating and classic dishes include saumagen, lewwerkneedl, and dampfnudeln.

Is Brussels or Heidelberg Better for Nightlife?

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

Heidelberg is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. As a university town, you'll find a very young population and many bars, pubs, and nightclubs where you can hang out.

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 Heidelberg Better for its Old Town?

Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg is one of the most recognized in the world. The charming old town, or Altstadt, is lined with cafes that spill out onto the street and churches with bells that chime hourly. The area is filled with activity and there are many shops, ice cream vendors, and restaurants to choose from.

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 Heidelberg?

Brussels is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Heidelberg is a great destination for shopping. The pedestrian area is the best place to pass your time shopping. There are name brand stores mixed in with local independent shops which you'll mostly find on the side streets. Popular items to buy include wooden toys, Christmas decorations, and candy.

Is Brussels or Heidelberg Better for Families?

Brussels is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Brussels. 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.

Heidelberg is a family-friendly place to visit. With its many ice cream shops, playgrounds, and impressive castle, this city makes a nice stop for families with kids. The restaurants usually have a kid's menu and there are a number of kid-friendly museums and activities.

Is Brussels or Heidelberg Better for Couples?

Brussels and Heidelberg both excellent 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.

Heidelberg is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. This beautiful city offers an impressive backdrop for a couple's getaway. The view from the castle looks out beautifully over the city and the old town has many excellent restaurants and activities that are great for couples.

Is Brussels or Heidelberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels and Heidelberg are excellent 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 Heidelberg. Prices are reasonable and there are a handful of hostels around town. As a university town, you can be assured there are plenty of fun activities and cheap places to eat.

Is Brussels or Heidelberg Better for Students?

Brussels is a great city for its student-friendly activities. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Heidelberg is a good city to visit for students. It is a beautiful student town with a lot of activities for young visitors. This is not the most popular study abroad destination, but it does have a lot to offer for those who visit.

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

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

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

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Heidelberg. There are trams and buses that connect the old town to the train station.

Is Brussels or Heidelberg a more walkable city?

Brussels and Heidelberg both are excellent 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.

Heidelberg is a very walkable city. The old town is particularly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Heidelberg or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Heidelberg?

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

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

When visiting Brussels, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Brussels, one day is sufficent for most.

The beautiful town of Heidelberg offers nightlife and food. 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 Heidelberg?

When visiting Brussels, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Heidelberg is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town 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 Heidelberg, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Brussels or Heidelberg?

Brussels, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg?

Brussels is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Heidelberg 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 town 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 Germany, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Germany.

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

Which is Bigger, Brussels or Heidelberg?

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

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 Heidelberg in the Summer?

Both Heidelberg and Brussels during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Brussels because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Heidelberg this time of year.

In July, Brussels is generally cooler than Heidelberg. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 18°C (65°F), and Heidelberg fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

In Heidelberg, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Heidelberg. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Heidelberg receives 224 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Heidelberg. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Heidelberg in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Heidelberg. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Brussels this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Heidelberg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

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

Brussels usually receives more sunshine than Heidelberg during autumn. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies, while Heidelberg receives 102 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Brussels usually receives more rain than Heidelberg. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Brussels or Heidelberg in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Brussels as well as Heidelberg. Many travelers come to Brussels for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Heidelberg in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Heidelberg can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Brussels. In the winter, Brussels is a little warmer than Heidelberg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Brussels in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Heidelberg averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Brussels often gets more sunshine than Heidelberg. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Heidelberg receives 38 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in January than Heidelberg. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Heidelberg in the Spring?

Both Heidelberg and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Brussels in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Heidelberg for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Brussels is generally cooler than Heidelberg. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 10°C (49°F), and Heidelberg fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Brussels usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Heidelberg during spring. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Heidelberg receives 155 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Brussels usually receives around the same amount of rain as Heidelberg. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Heidelberg and Brussels