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

Should you visit Brussels or Honolulu?

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 Honolulu. 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 multicultural, historic, and cosmopolitan city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Honolulu

Honolulu is a energetic, vibrant, and multi-cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Brussels and Honolulu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brussels or Honolulu?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Honolulu than Brussels. While Brussels is larger than Honolulu, Honolulu has more sights and attractions for tourists. Honolulu is more popular for its museums, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Brussels is known for its historical sights, shopping, and big city activities. Honolulu is more touristy than Brussels and is popular for its multicultural atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic hikes. It is also home to Pearl Harbor. Brussels is popular for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles.

How is Brussels different from Honolulu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Honolulu is renowned for its museums and landmarks. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Honolulu that are not to be missed. For many visitors, a trip to Pearl Harbor is one of the most memorable experiences while they're in Hawaii. It's still an active naval base, but it's also a National Historic Landmark that memorializes that historic day in 1941. There are many sights that reflect on the past and you can also pick up tours to the USS Arizona at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. Other cultural sights around Honolulu include the Polynesian Cultural Center, the Shangri-La Museum, and Iolani Palace.

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.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at very good restaurants in both Brussels and Honolulu.

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).

Honolulu has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city offers a mix of internationally recognized chain restaurants as well as local mom and pop shops. You'll find a mix of cuisines that reflect the city's multicultural personality. There is plenty of Japanese food around town as well as local Hawaiian dishes. Spam is incorporated into many dishes, but you'll also find seafood and tropical fruits.

Is Brussels or Honolulu Better for Nightlife?

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

Honolulu is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has the most active nightlife scene on all of the Hawaiian islands. If you're looking for a party, then this is the place to stay. You'll find many bars, clubs, and entertainment options around town, as well as beach parties and festivals. For tourists, the highest concentration of nightlife venues is around Waikiki, which is also where you'll find the most hotels.

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 Honolulu Better for Resorts?

Honolulu is renowned for its resorts. However, Brussels is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Honolulu for its luxury resorts. The highest concentration of resorts are around Waikiki where you'll find all of the major names such as the Hilton, Marriott, and the Hyatt.

Brussels is not a resort destination.

Is Brussels or Honolulu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Honolulu is well known for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Brussels is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Honolulu. There are great beaches around the island and near the city where you can enjoy diving and snorkeling. You'll find coral and tropical fish that make for a wonderful experience.

Brussels is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Brussels or Honolulu Better for Beaches?

Honolulu is renowned for its beaches. However, Brussels is not a beach destination.

Honolulu offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Nearby there are countless beach destinations such as the famed Waikiki Beach. There are also more local and lesser known stretches of sand where you can escape the tourist crowds. Other great beaches in the area include Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Magic Island, and Lanikai Beach.

Brussels is not a beach destination.

Is Brussels or Honolulu Better for its Old Town?

Brussels is great for its historic old town. However, Honolulu does not have a historic old town.

Brussels is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Honolulu does not have a historic old town.

Is Brussels or Honolulu Better for Hiking?

Honolulu is renowned for its hiking experiences. However, Brussels is not a hiking destination.

Honolulu is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Both in the city and nearby you'll find world famous hiking trails that offer spectacular views and breathtaking landscapes. There are many natural landmarks and dramatic mountains. Moanalua Valley Trail, also known as the Stairway to Heaven, is one of the top hiking trails in the area. Other popular options include Kuliouou Ridge Trail and Diamond Head Crater Hike.

Brussels is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Honolulu?

Brussels is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Brussels. 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.

Honolulu is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has some of the best shopping opportunities in the Hawaiian islands. There are brand name fashion outlets, large shopping malls, and boutique local vendors. Many of the malls are open air and let you enjoy the Hawaiian climate while you browse. Downtown Honolulu and Waikiki both have many shopping opportunities.

Is Brussels or Honolulu Better for Families?

Honolulu is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Honolulu is very family-friendly. There are many kid-friendly beaches, hiking trails, and activities that appeal to families. While Waikiki Beach can get crowded, it is also a great option for kids. Kids will also enjoy snorkeling with sea turtles, swimming with dolphins, or taking surfing lessons. For a cold treat, everyone can enjoy shave ice and the perfect way to wrap up a day is a fun luau.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Brussels is very family-friendly. 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.

Is Brussels or Honolulu Better for Couples?

Honolulu is renowned for romance. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Honolulu is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Romantic resorts, beautiful beaches, and stunning hikes make this a top honeymoon destination for couples. The city has an energy that is unlike anywhere else on the Hawaiian islands, but there are also nature trails and outdoor adventures nearby. There are a diversity of restaurants that highlight both local and international cuisines, and a nightlife scene that will keep you entertained.

Brussels is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Is Brussels or Honolulu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels and Honolulu are very good 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 Honolulu. This is one of the easier places to stay in Hawaii as a backpacker. There are a handful of hostels, and public transit is available so having a car isn't as crucial as it is everywhere else.

Is Brussels or Honolulu Better for Students?

Brussels is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Honolulu is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

Honolulu is not popular with students.

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

Brussels is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

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

Honolulu has a few public transit options. TheBus is the public bus system through the city and elsewhere on Oahu.

Is Brussels or Honolulu a more walkable city?

Brussels and Honolulu both are very good 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.

Honolulu is a very walkable city. The most walkable areas are around downtown Honolulu and in Waikiki.

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

Should I spend more time in Honolulu or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Honolulu?

Both Brussels and Honolulu have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Honolulu than in Brussels. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Brussels, and 5-7 days is enough time in Honolulu.

Families should spend more time in Honolulu than Brussels. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Honolulu, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Honolulu than Brussels. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Honolulu that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Honolulu than Brussels 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 Honolulu.

One day in Brussels or Honolulu?

Brussels is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

The beautiful city of Honolulu offers museums and nightlife. 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 Honolulu?

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

Honolulu is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Brussels or Honolulu?

Brussels is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Brussels, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

Brussels is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. 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.

Honolulu is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Honolulu has to offer. 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 Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Brussels and Honolulu, we can see that Honolulu is more expensive. And not only is Brussels much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Brussels is in Europe and Honolulu is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Brussels would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Brussels and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Honolulu would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Honolulu than you might in Brussels.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Brussels Expensive? and Is Honolulu Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Brussels or Honolulu?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Honolulu. When comparing the sizes of Brussels and Honolulu, 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 Honolulu?

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 Honolulu in the Summer?

Both Honolulu and Brussels during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Brussels for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Honolulu because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Brussels is cooler than Honolulu in the summer. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 18°C (65°F) in July, and Honolulu fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

In Honolulu, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Honolulu. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Honolulu receives 303 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in July than Honolulu. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Honolulu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Honolulu in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Honolulu. The autumn months attract visitors to Brussels because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Honolulu this time of year.

In the autumn, Brussels is much colder than Honolulu. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Brussels in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Honolulu averages at about 80°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Honolulu this time of the year. Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Honolulu during autumn. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies, while Honolulu receives 246 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Brussels usually receives more rain than Honolulu. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Honolulu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Brussels or Honolulu in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Brussels as well as Honolulu. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Brussels this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Honolulu for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Brussels in the winter. In January, Brussels is generally much colder than Honolulu. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 3°C (38°F), and Honolulu fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Honolulu. In the winter, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Honolulu. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Honolulu receives 212 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets less rain in January than Honolulu. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Honolulu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Honolulu in the Spring?

Both Honolulu and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Brussels for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Honolulu in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Brussels is much colder than Honolulu in the spring. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 10°C (49°F) in April, and Honolulu fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Honolulu. Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Honolulu during spring. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Honolulu receives 253 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Brussels usually receives more rain than Honolulu. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Honolulu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Honolulu and Brussels