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

Should you visit Brussels or Leipzig?

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

Leipzig

Leipzig is a dynamic, cultural, and historic city. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Brussels and Leipzig: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brussels or Leipzig?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Brussels than Leipzig, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Brussels is more popular for its food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Leipzig is known for its quaint atmosphere. Brussels is popular for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. It is also home to La Grand Place (Grote Markt). Leipzig is popular for being the home of several great musicians such as Bach and Richard Wagner.

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Brussels different from Leipzig?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Brussels and Leipzig 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.

Leipzig offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are many historic landmarks like Old City Hall, St. Thomas Church, St. Nicholas Church, and the Battle of the Nations Monument.

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

Brussels is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Brussels. 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).

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Leipzig. Coffee houses and cellar restaurants offer an unique atmosphere where you can enjoy local specialties. Sample beef roulade or Saxon dumplings while you soak up the cozy ambiance.

Is Brussels or Leipzig Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Leipzig has a few options to choose from. Nightlife in town centers around live theater, cultural centers, and live entertainment.

Is Brussels or Leipzig Better for its Old Town?

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

Leipzig does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Leipzig?

Brussels is terrific for shopping. Also, Leipzig 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.

Leipzig is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city center has most of the best shopping areas. There are pedestrian streets and squares like Petersstraße and Marktplatz, as well as large shopping malls like Promenaden Hauptbahnhof Leipzig and Petersbogen.

Is Brussels or Leipzig Better for Families?

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

Brussels is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Leipzig is a family-friendly place to visit. Head to Belantis, which is an amusement park with rides, or take the kids to one of the many parks like Clara-Zetkin Park where they can unwind. The Leipzig Zoo makes a nice outing as well or Maya Mare is a fun waterpark. There are also several good museums like the Leipzig Panometer.

Is Brussels or Leipzig Better for Couples?

Brussels is great for romance. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

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.

Leipzig makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many beautiful outdoor parks and natural areas where couples can enjoy this beautiful city.

Is Brussels or Leipzig Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Brussels is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Leipzig is a good city to visit for backpackers. Many backpackers overlook this city, but there are a few hostels and some nice areas to explore for those who make their way here.

Is Brussels or Leipzig Better for Students?

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

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

Leipzig is not popular with students.

Is Brussels or Leipzig 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, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice 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.

Public transit in Leipzig can get you to some places easily. The city has 61 bus lines and 13 tram lines that connect Leizpig to elsewhere in the region.

Is Brussels or Leipzig a more walkable city?

Brussels is great for its walkability. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

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.

Leipzig is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of Leizpig are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Leipzig or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Leipzig?

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

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

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 Leipzig offers food and shopping. 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 Leipzig?

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.

Leipzig 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Leipzig, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Brussels or Leipzig?

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.

Leipzig 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 Leipzig?

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.

Leipzig 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 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, and The Best Walking Tours in Germany.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Brussels and Leipzig, we can see that Leipzig is more expensive. And not only is Brussels much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Leipzig would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Leipzig 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 Leipzig Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Brussels or Leipzig?

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

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 Leipzig in the Summer?

Both Leipzig 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 Leipzig for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Brussels is around the same temperature as Leipzig in the summer. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 18°C (65°F) in July, and Leipzig fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

In Leipzig, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Leipzig. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Leipzig receives 206 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in July than Leipzig. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Leipzig in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Leipzig. 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 Leipzig because of the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Brussels is around the same temperature as Leipzig. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Brussels in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Leipzig averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Brussels usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Leipzig during autumn. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies, while Leipzig receives 107 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Brussels usually receives more rain than Leipzig. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Brussels or Leipzig in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Brussels as well as Leipzig. 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 Leipzig this time of year.

It's quite cold in Leipzig in the winter. The weather in Brussels can be very cold. In January, Brussels is generally much warmer than Leipzig. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 3°C (38°F), and Leipzig fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

In the winter, Brussels often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Leipzig. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Leipzig receives 45 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in January than Leipzig. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Leipzig in the Spring?

Both Leipzig 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.

Brussels is around the same temperature as Leipzig in the spring. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 10°C (49°F) in April, and Leipzig fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Brussels usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Leipzig during spring. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Leipzig receives 143 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Brussels usually receives more rain than Leipzig. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Leipzig and Brussels