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

Should you visit Brussels or Naples?

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 Naples. 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.

Naples

Naples is a authentic, gritty, and colorful city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Brussels and Naples: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brussels or Naples?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Brussels. Although Brussels and Naples are about the same size, Brussels has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Brussels is better known for its shopping and big city activities, while Naples is more popular for its food and nightlife. 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). Naples is well known for its colorful atmosphere, long running history, and influence on world cuisine as the birthplace of pizza.

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Brussels different from Naples?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Brussels and Naples 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.

Naples offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Most of the sights are concentrated in the city's historic center. The Naples Harbor is a gateway to the Mediterranean. Also worth visiting are the National Archeological Museum, Capodimonte Royal Palace, Castel Nuovo, and the Catacombs of San Gennaro.

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

Naples 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 Naples, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. As the birthplace of pizza, the city has a well known food reputation. Many local dishes, including an authentic Napoli pizza, use simple flavors such as olive oil, garlic, and tomatoes. The dishes are lighter than their northern counterparts and tomatoes are a very popular ingredient. In addition to the pizza, you should try Lasagna Al Forno Napoletana and Spaghetti Alla Vognole. Also check out a pizza making class.

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 Naples Better for Nightlife?

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

Naples is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene includes small bars, wineries, and dance clubs, but much of the energy and activity is actually focused on being outdoors. There is plenty of live music and many nightclubs are actually "disco bars" that are found tucked away in the city's historic center.

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 Naples Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the great old town areas in both Brussels and Naples.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of 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.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Naples. Most of the city's tourist attractions are found in the historic center, which includes beautiful fountains, grand churches, and an impressive network of catacombs and caves.

Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Naples?

Brussels is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Brussels is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Naples. There are shopping streets and districts that have boutique clothing vendors, high end brands, and major chains. There's plenty of diversity in the shopping scene and some of the best shopping areas include Via Toledo, the Chiaia District, and Poggioreale Market.

Is Brussels or Naples Better for Families?

Brussels is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Brussels is known to be 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.

Naples offers lots of family activities. Despite its rough-around-the-edges reputation, the city actually has some fun kid-friendly activities. As the birthplace of pizza, a childhood favorite, eating is a kid approved activity. You can even try your hand at pizza making classes. Other fun kid-friendly activities include exploring the underground city, going to The Science Centre of Citta della Scienza, and running around Parco di Capodimonte.

Is Brussels or Naples Better for Couples?

Brussels and Naples 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.

Naples is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Dining on pizza, wine tasting, or taking a cruise on the Gulf of Naples all make this city a great couples destination. There are also many romantic day trips in the area, so many couples use Naples as a base for exploring the region.

Is Brussels or Naples Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels and Naples 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 Naples. It's more affordable than most of northern Italy, and it has plenty of hostels to choose from. The city makes a great stop for backpackers who want to see a different part of Italy. While not completely off the backpacker trail, Naples is not inundated with tourists the way some other Italian cities are.

Is Brussels or Naples Better for Students?

Brussels is well known for students. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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.

It's common for students to visit Naples. It's a large city with a lot to see and do. Students also appreciate the many day trips that are available in the area.

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

Brussels is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Brussels can get you around easily. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Naples. There's a metro with two metro lines as well as four suburban train lines. There are also funiculars, regional trains, and ferries to the surrounding areas.

Is Brussels or Naples a more walkable city?

Brussels and Naples 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.

Naples is a very walkable city. The historic center is flat and easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Naples or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Naples?

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

Families should spend more time in Brussels than Naples. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Brussels than Naples 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 Naples?

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 Naples offers food and shopping. 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 Naples?

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.

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

Five days in Brussels or Naples?

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.

Naples is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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 Naples?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic 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.

Naples is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Belgium, The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Brussels or Naples?

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

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 Naples in the Summer?

Both Naples 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 Naples for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Brussels is generally cooler than Naples. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 18°C (65°F), and Naples fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

It's quite sunny in Naples. Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Naples during summer. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies, while Naples receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Brussels usually receives more rain than Naples. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Naples receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Brussels or Naples in the Autumn?

Both Naples 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 Naples because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Brussels is cooler than Naples in the autumn. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Naples fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Naples. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Naples receives 189 hours of full sun.

Naples gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Brussels usually gets less rain in October than Naples. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Naples receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Naples in the Winter?

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

The weather in Brussels can be very cold. In the winter, Brussels is much colder than Naples. Typically, the winter temperatures in Brussels in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Naples averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Naples during winter. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies, while Naples receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

Naples receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Brussels usually receives less rain than Naples. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Naples receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Brussels or Naples in the Spring?

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

In April, Brussels is generally cooler than Naples. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 10°C (49°F), and Naples fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Naples. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Naples receives 189 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets less rain in April than Naples. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Naples receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Naples and Brussels