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

Should you visit Brussels or Lyon?

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 Lyon. 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. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Lyon

Lyon is a beautiful, cultural, and quaint city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Brussels and Lyon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brussels or Lyon?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Lyon than Brussels. While Brussels is larger than Lyon, Lyon has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Lyon is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Brussels attracts visitors for its shopping and big city activities. Lyon is more touristy than Brussels and is known for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. It is also well known for The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Brussels is famous for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles.

How is Brussels different from Lyon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lyon 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 Lyon that are not to be missed. There are many world class museums and historic landmarks in the city including Musée des Beaux Arts, Musée de la Civilisation Gallo-Romaine, and Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

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 Lyon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lyon is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Lyon, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Known as "the Gastronomic Capital of the World" this city stands above the rest when it comes to Michelin star restaurants (there are 17!), fresh ingredients, and unique local flavors. Favorite local dishes include pâté en croûte, rosette de Lyon, and saucisson brioché.

Brussels has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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).

Is Brussels or Lyon Better for Nightlife?

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

Lyon is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has enough diverse neighborhoods that you'll find a scene that is great for everyone. There are dance clubs, cocktail bars, and wine bars that meet every personality and style.

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 Lyon Better for its Old Town?

Lyon 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 Lyon is one of the most recognized in the world. This impressive old town climbs from the river into Fourvière Hill. It's a Renaissance era district with beautiful buildings and plenty of character. You can spend days wandering the quaint streets and popping in the world class restaurants.

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 Lyon?

Brussels is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Lyon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Brussels make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Lyon. The city has many trendy markets, pedestrian shopping areas, and character-filled boutiques. From the charming shops in old town to the chic shopping streets, there are plenty of places to splurge around town.

Is Brussels or Lyon Better for Families?

Both Brussels and Lyon 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, Lyon is very family-friendly. The city has many kid-friendly museums including Musée des Confluences and the Cinema and Miniature Museum. There are also playgrounds, patisseries, and river cruises that you can enjoy as a family. Puppet shows are also fun, but do note that they're usually in French. While the restaurants are amazing for adults, it can be tricky to find a kid-friendly option with early opening hours that are convenient for little ones.

Is Brussels or Lyon Better for Couples?

Brussels and Lyon 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.

Lyon is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples can enjoy wandering the beautiful Old Town, taking a river cruise, and dining on some of the best food in France.

Is Brussels or Lyon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels and Lyon 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 Lyon. The city has several hostels and a number of activities that are fun for budget travelers and backpackers.

Is Brussels or Lyon Better for Students?

Lyon is renowned for students. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Lyon is a very popular place to visit for students. It is a very livable city with many fun cultural activities for students. There are many different entertainment options during the day, and during the evening there are plenty of places to hang out.

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.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Brussels and Lyon.

Brussels has a great public transit system. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

Public transit in Lyon is top-notch. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

Is Brussels or Lyon a more walkable city?

Brussels and Lyon 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.

Lyon is a very walkable city. The old town is particularly walkable, but the hills can make things a bit challenging. There are also a number of pedestrian streets around town.

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

Should I spend more time in Lyon or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Lyon?

In either Brussels or Lyon, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Lyon has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Lyon than Brussels. In general, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Brussels, and 2-5 days is enough time in Lyon.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lyon 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 Lyon.

One day in Brussels or Lyon?

Brussels is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

The beautiful city of Lyon offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Lyon?

Brussels is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the shopping. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

Five days in Brussels or Lyon?

Brussels is a authentic big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

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

The colorful city of Brussels offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

Lyon 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

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

Which is Bigger, Brussels or Lyon?

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

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 Lyon in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Lyon. Many visitors come to Brussels in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Lyon for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Brussels is cooler than Lyon. Typically, the summer temperatures in Brussels in July average around 18°C (65°F), and Lyon averages at about 22°C (71°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lyon this time of the year. Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during summer. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

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

Should I visit Brussels or Lyon in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Brussels as well as Lyon. Most visitors come to Brussels for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Lyon because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Brussels is generally cooler than Lyon. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 12°C (54°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Lyon. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 127 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets less rain in October than Lyon. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Lyon in the Winter?

Both Lyon and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. 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 Lyon this time of year.

It's quite cold in Lyon in the winter. The weather in Brussels can be very cold. Brussels is cooler than Lyon in the winter. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Lyon fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during winter. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Brussels usually receives more rain than Lyon. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Brussels or Lyon in the Spring?

Both Lyon and Brussels during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city are the main draw to Brussels this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lyon for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Brussels is cooler than Lyon. Typically, the spring temperatures in Brussels in April average around 10°C (49°F), and Lyon averages at about 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Lyon. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 174 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets less rain in April than Lyon. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Lyon and Brussels