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

Should you visit Brussels or Paris?

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 Paris. 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 cosmopolitan, authentic, and colorful 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.

Paris

Paris is a beautiful, iconic, and bustling city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Brussels and Paris: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Eiffel Tower


Is there more to do in Brussels or Paris?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paris than Brussels, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Paris is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, and impressive beauty, while Brussels is known for its historical sights. Paris is more touristy than Brussels and is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. It is also home to The Eiffel Tower. Brussels is popular for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles.

The Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower

How is Brussels different from Paris?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Brussels
Paris

Paris 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 Paris that are not to be missed. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

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 Brussels or Paris Better for Theater?

Brussels
Paris

Paris is renowned for theatre. However, Brussels is not a theatre destination.

Paris is considered to be a world-class theater destination. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Brussels is not a theatre destination.

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

Brussels
Paris

Paris 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 Paris, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

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 Paris Better for Nightlife?

Brussels
Paris

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

Paris is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

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 Paris Better for Music?

Brussels
Paris

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

Paris is a world class music destination. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Brussels is not a live music destination.

Is Brussels or Paris Better for its Old Town?

Brussels
Paris

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

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.

Paris does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Paris?

Brussels
Paris

Shopping is a popular activity in both Paris 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, Paris draws large crowds to its stores. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.


Is Brussels or Paris Better for Christmas?

Brussels
Paris

Paris is renowned for its Christmas activities. However, Brussels does not offer Christmas activities.

During Christmas, Paris is not to be missed. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.

Brussels does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Brussels or Paris Better for Families?

Brussels
Paris

Paris 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, Paris is very family-friendly. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

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 Paris Better for Couples?

Brussels
Paris

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

Paris is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

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 Paris Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels
Paris

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

Paris is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts 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 Paris Better for Students?

Brussels
Paris

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

Paris is a very popular place to visit for students. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad 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 Paris Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Brussels
Paris

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

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

Public transit in Paris is top-notch. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.


Is Brussels or Paris a more walkable city?

Brussels
Paris

Brussels and Paris both are superb 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.

Paris is a very walkable city. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Paris or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Paris?

Both Brussels and Paris have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Paris than in Brussels. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Brussels, and 3-7 days is enough time in Paris.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Brussels or Paris? Ideal Length of Stay
    Brussels 1-5 
    Paris 3-7

One day in Brussels or Paris?

Each neighborhood in Brussels has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the shopping. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

The beautiful city of Paris offers shopping and museums. 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 Paris?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brussels. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Paris is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 Paris?

Brussels is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Brussels has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Lots of people come for the shopping. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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

You'll find food and shopping around the historic big city of Brussels. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the shopping. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Paris is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Paris 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 Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Paris or Brussels?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Brussels is €137, while the average daily cost in Paris is €232. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Brussels and Paris in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Brussels 73
    Paris 151
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Brussels 146
    Paris 302
Compare Hotels in Brussels and Paris

Looking for a hotel in Brussels or Paris? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Brussels


Hotels in Paris


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Brussels Hotel Prices and Paris Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Brussels 17
    Paris 21
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Brussels

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Brussels are as follows:


  • Subway Pass
    4.50
  • Atomium train ticket (2)
    8.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Brussels

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Brussels:

  • Private Transfer from Brussels to Amsterdam: $509
  • Brussels Airport (BRU) To Amsterdam: VIP Transfer: $499
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Brussels to Amsterdam by Luxury car: $289
  • Brussels Shuttle Transfer <-> Disneyland Paris (1 to 8 SEATS): $283
  • Private Transfer from Brussels to Amsterdam By Luxury car: $274
  • Private Direct Transfer from Brussels to Amsterdam: $260
  • Private VIP Transfer to/from Bruges: $249
  • Brussels Private Transfer from Brussels city centre to Brussels Charleroi Airport (CRL): $233
  • Private Transfer From Brussels To Circuit SPA-FRANCORCHAMPS Belgium Luxury car : $193
  • Transfer Shuttle Leuven <-> Amsterdam (1 to 8 Places): $177
  • Transfer Shuttle Leuven <-> Schipol Airport Amsterdam (1 to 8 Places): $177
  • Brussels Shuttle Transfer <-> SPA (1 to 8 PLACES): $158

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Paris

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Paris are as follows:


  • Metro
    6.40
  • Train from Airport
    9.00
  • Metro tickets
    6.80
  • Train
    20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Paris

Also for Paris, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Bus Transfer : Paris to the Palace of Versailles Round-Trip : $44
  • Disneyland Private Transfer - Luxury Minivan Service: $186
  • La Defense Private Transfer to Airport or Central Paris: $23
  • Private Roundtrip Airport Transfer for 1 to 3 Persons in Paris: $198
  • Private Transfer from Paris to Charles de Gaulle Airport: $84
  • Private transfer from Beauvais airport to Paris or back: $270
  • Airport Transfer Service Shuttle Disneyland Paris Taxi: $83
  • Airport Transfer: Paris Airport CDG to Paris City by Business Car: $102
  • Airport Transfer: Paris Airport CDG to Paris City by Luxury EQS: $153
  • Airport Transfer: Paris City to Paris Airport CDG by Business Car: $101
  • Airport Transfer: Paris City to Paris Airport CDG by Luxury EQS: $154
  • Airport transfer from Paris to Disneyland Paris/Parc Asterix (8pax): $186

Is it cheaper to fly into Brussels or Paris?

Prices for flights to both Paris and Brussels change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Brussels 38
    Paris 41
Typical Food Prices in Brussels

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Brussels:


  • Ice Cream & Macaroons
    4.60
  • Dessert (Turkish Delights)
    4.75
  • Cheese
    5.60
  • Olives and Snacks
    6.98
  • Waffle
    3.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Brussels

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Brussels.

  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $29
  • Hard Rock Cafe Brussels with Set Lunch or Dinner : $30
  • Chocolate and Beer Food Tour of Brussels: $43
  • City Center Guided Food Tour with Tastings: $60
  • Experience Authentic Belgian Cuisine: Cooking Lesson and Meal with a Ghent Local: $90
  • Food Tour in Brussels - Do Eat Better Experience: $107
  • Secret Food Tours Brussels: $112
  • The 10 Tastings of Brussels With Locals: PRIVATE Food Tour (B-Corp certified): $159
  • Market Tour and Cooking Lesson with a Belgian Gourmet Meal in a Brussels Home: $160
  • Private Food Tour – 10 Tastings with Locals: $165
  • Brussels Private Custom Food Tour with a Local Foodie : $194

Typical Food Prices in Paris

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Paris:


  • Ice Cream
    8.00
  • Breakfast
    7.00
  • Breakfast for 2
    30
  • Dinner on River Cruise
    86
  • Dinner
    57
  • Cheese
    13

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Paris

For Paris, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Authentic Indian Dinner in Paris : $50
  • Paris Capitaine Fracasse 3 Course Seine River Dinner Cruise: $52
  • Paris : Seine River Bistronomic Dinner Cruise: $53
  • Seine River Panoramic Views Dinner Cruise: $67
  • Paris en Scene 3 Course Seine River Dinner Cruise: $68
  • No Diet Club - Paris : Night food tour - Montmartre: $68
  • Paris : No Diet Club Food Tour - Best Spots in Le Marais: $68
  • 1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise with Bistro Dinner: $69
  • Dinner with Customized Wine Selection: $76
  • 3-Hour Dinner Cruise on Seine River and Saint-Martin Canal: $76
  • Paris Food Tour: $76
  • Seine River Dinner Cruise from Eiffel Tower: $86

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Brussels 23
    Paris 77

Tours and Activities in Brussels

Here are a few actual costs in Brussels for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Beer Tasting Tour in Brussels: $24
  • Brussels Walking Tour with Waffle Tasting: History and Delights: $23
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Christmas Gems of Brussels - Walking Tour: $264
  • 2-Hour Brussels Guided Walking Tour: $15
  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour in the templar village of Lissewege: $76
  • 3 Hour Private Bike Tour in Brussels: $201
  • 3 hours Belgian Truffles and Pastries Experience: $71
  • 4 Hour Private Tour in Brussels : $276
  • 600 Years of History and Heritage: A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Leuven: $5.99
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Brussels' Secret Places and Untold Stories: $5.99
  • A Self-Guided Tour of From Medieval to Modern Times: $7.99

Typical Entertainment Prices in Paris

For Paris, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Louvre Entry for Two
    18
  • Admission to Pantheon
    5.00
  • Catacombs (2)
    23

Tours and Activities in Paris

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Paris.

  • Paris - Free Walking Tour of: Montmartre: $2.17
  • Montmartre Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt Tour: $3.26
  • Montmartre Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $3.29
  • Marais Walk Self Guided Audio Tour: $4.40
  • Eiffel Tower Audio Tour Experience: $5.00
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $5.43
  • Père-Lachaise Cemetery audio guide tour: $5.43
  • Self-guided Tour Covered Passages in Paris: $5.43
  • Kid-Friendly Marais: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.49
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Paris: $5.50
  • Private Self Guided Walking Tour in Montmartre Paris: $5.51
  • Paris Without People - Sunrise Bike Tour: $5.51

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Brussels 13
    Paris 24
Typical Alcohol Prices in Brussels

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Brussels are as follows:


  • Bottle of Wine
    10
  • Beer
    6.00

Sample the Local Flavors in Brussels

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Brussels:

  • Brussels Pub Crawl - Nightlife & Party Experience: $18
  • Pub Crawl and Nightlife Party Experience: $18

Typical Alcohol Prices in Paris

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Paris are as follows:


  • Wine
    14

Sample the Local Flavors in Paris

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Paris:

  • Daily Paris Pub Crawl: Meet, Drink & Party (With Club Entry): $14
  • Original Paris Pub Crawl : $17
  • Daily Paris Pub Crawl: Meet, Drink & Party (With Club Entry): $17
  • Latin Quarter Guided Pub Crawl to Bars and Clubs: $22
  • Paris Bar Crawl: $24
  • Paris Latin Quarter Pub Crawl Bars and Clubs: $24
  • Paris Pub Crawl: $26
  • Vineyard tour and wine tasting in Davron: $32
  • Wine Museum Guided Tour with Wine Tasting: $39
  • Audio guided tour and wine tasting at Caves du Louvre: $40
  • Wine Tasting in Paris right next to Père Lachaise & l'Atelier des lumières: $50
  • Vegan Wine Tasting in Paris right next to Père Lachaise: $50


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Brussels and Paris, we can see that Paris 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 Paris would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Paris 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 Paris Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Brussels or Paris?

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

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 Paris in the Summer?

Both Paris and Brussels during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Brussels this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Paris for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Brussels is around the same temperature as Paris in the summer. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 18°C (65°F) in July, and Paris fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In Paris, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Paris. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 241 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in July than Paris. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Paris receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Brussels 18°C (65°F) 
    Paris 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Brussels or Paris in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Paris. Many travelers come to Brussels for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Paris in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Brussels is around the same temperature as Paris. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Brussels in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Paris averages at about 13°C (56°F).

Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Paris during autumn. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Brussels usually receives more rain than Paris. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Brussels 12°C (54°F) 
    Paris 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Brussels or Paris in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Brussels as well as Paris. Many visitors come to Brussels in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Paris for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Paris can be very cold during winter. Brussels can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Brussels is generally cooler than Paris. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 3°C (38°F), and Paris fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Paris. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 62 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in January than Paris. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Brussels 3°C (38°F) 
    Paris 5°C (40°F)

Should I visit Brussels or Paris in the Spring?

Both Paris and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Brussels for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Paris because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Brussels is cooler than Paris in the spring. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 10°C (49°F) in April, and Paris fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Paris during spring. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Brussels usually receives more rain than Paris. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Paris receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Brussels 10°C (49°F) 
    Paris 11°C (52°F)

Typical Weather for Paris and Brussels

Brussels Paris
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 5°C (40°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 6°C (42°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 10°C (49°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (1.9 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 17°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jul 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in) 20°C (68°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Aug 18°C (65°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 20°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 17°C (63°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (56°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 76 mm (3 in) 8°C (47°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 76 mm (3 in) 5°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)