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

Should you visit Brussels or Munich?

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 Munich. 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. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Munich

Munich is a bustling, high energy, and multicultural city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for live music, food, and shopping.

Brussels and Munich: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brussels or Munich?

You'll generally find more things to do in Munich than Brussels. Munich is bigger than Brussels, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Munich is better known for its nightlife and music, while Brussels is more popular for its historical sights. Munich is more touristy than Brussels and is known for its beer halls (particularly during Oktoberfest), its historic buildings and its castles. Also, Munich is famous for The Nymphenburg Palace. Brussels is well known for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles.

How is Brussels different from Munich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Brussels and Munich 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.

Munich offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Famous sights include the Old Town Hall in Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the Munich Residenz.

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

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

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).

Munich has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Bavaria has some of the best food in Germany. Popular dishes include schnitzel, weisswurst and spätzel.

Is Brussels or Munich Better for Nightlife?

Munich is renowned for nightlife. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Munich is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city has a young and vibrant population that keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are many bars and clubs around town, but the city is also famous for Oktoberfest during the months of September and October.

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 Munich Better for Music?

Munich is renowned for live music. However, Brussels is not a live music destination.

Munich is a world class music destination. The city is known for its music festivals, large concerts, and small venues that are diverse enough that there is something for everyone.

Brussels is not a live music destination.

Is Brussels or Munich Better for its Old Town?

Brussels is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Munich 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.

Munich does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Munich?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Munich and Brussels.

Brussels is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Known for shopping, Munich draws large crowds to its stores. There are many pedestrian areas and shopping centers where you can find everything from luxury items to bargain finds.

Is Brussels or Munich Better for Families?

Both Brussels and Munich 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, Munich is very family-friendly. Popular kid activities include going to the top of Stadium Roof at Olympic Park, checking out the movie sets at Filmstadt, and taking a paddle boat ride in the city park.

Is Brussels or Munich Better for Couples?

Brussels and Munich 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.

Munich is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples enjoy exploring the palaces around the city, visiting the Roman baths at Müller's Volksbad, and checking out the many great restaurants around town.

Is Brussels or Munich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Munich is renowned for backpackers. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Munich is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. The city has many fun hostels that often host events and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and take advantage of the nightlife around town.

Many backpackers 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.

Is Brussels or Munich Better for Students?

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

Munich is a very popular place to visit for students. The city is an economic hub for both Germany and Europe, so it attracts employees from around the world. There are many wonderful university programs, including a great business school in town. The city's multicultural setting makes it great for international students.

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 Munich 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 Munich.

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

Public transit in Munich is top-notch. Transit options include a subway (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses.

Is Brussels or Munich a more walkable city?

Brussels and Munich 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.

Munich is a very walkable city. While walking tours are a great way to explore, the city is quite large so you'll want to take public transit as well.

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

Should I spend more time in Munich or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Munich?

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

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

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

One day in Brussels or Munich?

Brussels is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

The city of Munich offers museums and nightlife. 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 Munich?

Brussels is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

Five days in Brussels or Munich?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brussels. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic big city of Brussels. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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

Which is Bigger, Brussels or Munich?

Munich has a larger population, and is about 24% larger than the population of Brussels. When comparing the sizes of Brussels and Munich, 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 Munich?

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 Munich in the Summer?

Both Munich and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Brussels in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Munich for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Brussels is generally around the same temperature as Munich. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 18°C (65°F), and Munich fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Munich. Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Munich during summer. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies, while Munich receives 242 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Brussels usually receives around the same amount of rain as Munich. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Munich receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Brussels or Munich in the Autumn?

Both Munich and Brussels during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Munich because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

Brussels is around the same temperature as Munich in the autumn. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Munich fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Brussels often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Munich. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Munich receives 115 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in October than Munich. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Munich receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Munich in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Munich. 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 Munich this time of year.

It's quite cold in Munich in the winter. The weather in Brussels can be very cold. In the winter, Brussels is much warmer than Munich. Typically, the winter temperatures in Brussels in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Munich averages at about -1°C (31°F).

Brussels usually receives more sunshine than Munich during winter. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies, while Munich receives 30 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Brussels usually receives more rain than Munich. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Munich receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Brussels or Munich in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Brussels as well as Munich. The activities around the city are the main draw to Brussels this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Munich for the activities around the city.

In April, Brussels is generally cooler than Munich. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 10°C (49°F), and Munich fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Munich. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Munich receives 172 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in April than Munich. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Munich receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Munich and Brussels